If you are a student-athlete who hasn’t locked down a scholarship yet, don’t worry—there’s still hope. Even though many major athletic scholarships close early, some opportunities stay open later into the year. You just have to know where to look and move quickly. 2025 still has some great last-minute athletic scholarships waiting for the right applicants.
Whether you’re a football player, swimmer, basketball star, or track athlete, these scholarships could help you chase both your academic and athletic dreams without the heavy burden of tuition costs.
Why Last-Minute Athletic Scholarships Matter
Life gets busy and sometimes athletes miss early application rounds. But colleges and organizations understand this. That’s why some leave spaces open until late spring or even summer. These last-minute scholarships can be lifesavers, especially if you’re still finalizing where you’ll study or if your athletic plans changed.
Some schools may also have spots open because earlier candidates dropped out or committed elsewhere. Being ready and available can work in your favor.
Athletic Scholarships You Can Still Apply for in 2025
Here are some programs and institutions where you can find open scholarships for athletes right now:
NJCAA Scholarships
The National Junior College Athletic Association (NJCAA) schools often have late openings. They offer two-year programs with strong athletic support, perfect for athletes who want to develop further before transferring to a four-year university.
NAIA Colleges
NAIA schools usually have more flexible timelines compared to NCAA. They are still awarding athletic scholarships for sports like soccer, basketball, and track and field. These colleges are a fantastic option for athletes who are strong but may have been overlooked in the earlier rounds.
Walk-On Opportunities with Scholarships
Some NCAA Division I and II schools offer scholarships to athletes who initially join the team as “walk-ons.” If you perform well during tryouts or your first semester, you could be awarded a scholarship later. Schools in this category often still have open applications into late spring.
Lagos State University (LASU) Sports Scholarships
For athletes in Nigeria, LASU continues to offer scholarships for exceptional performers in school and national sports competitions. These opportunities often remain available well into May and June.
Smaller Private Colleges
Many small colleges have athletic scholarships that they struggle to fill. These schools often extend their deadlines into the summer months. If you’re open-minded about location and program size, this could be your golden ticket.
Tips for Grabbing Last-Minute Scholarships
Since time is tight, here are some quick strategies to boost your chances:
- Update your athletic resume: Make sure it includes your latest achievements, awards, and personal bests.
- Create a short highlight video: Coaches often decide in a few minutes whether they’re interested.
- Contact coaches directly: Send personalized emails showing your interest and providing your athletic resume and video.
- Be flexible: You may need to adjust your expectations about location, division, or scholarship amount.
- Gather your documents: Keep academic transcripts, recommendation letters, and proof of athletic participation ready to go.
What Documents Do You Need?
For most applications, you’ll need:
- Academic transcripts
- SAT/ACT scores (if required)
- Proof of eligibility for athletic competitions
- Letters of recommendation from coaches or teachers
- A personal statement or essay
- Highlight video showcasing your athletic ability
Prepare these in advance so you can submit as soon as you find an open opportunity.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Waiting too long: Time is not on your side. Apply as soon as possible.
- Not following instructions: Each scholarship has specific requirements. Read them carefully.
- Ignoring smaller schools: Big names aren’t everything. Smaller schools can offer great opportunities and excellent athletic programs.
- Poor communication: Respond quickly to coaches and admission officers who reach out to you.
Benefits of Acting Fast
When you apply early enough, even at the last minute, you stand a better chance of getting offers because schools are urgently trying to fill their rosters. Many coaches are actively searching for athletes who are ready to commit. Your flexibility and quick action can make you stand out from others who hesitate.
Final Thoughts
Missing early scholarship deadlines doesn’t mean your athletic and academic dreams are over. There are still many last-minute athletic scholarships open in 2025 if you know where to look and act fast. Whether you are aiming for a junior college, NAIA school, or even international programs, opportunities are out there.