The NCAA provides more than $2.7 billion in athletics scholarships each year, giving the most to basketball and football teams. Some argue college athletes should be paid like employees. Others think they don’t deserve scholarships at all.
For students who have struggled academically and aren’t athletes, affording college can be even more difficult. While half of all people from high-income families have a bachelor’s degree by age 25, only one in 10 people from low-income families do.
Caucasian students receive more than three-quarters of all institutional merit-based scholarship and grant funding, and they are 40 percent more likely to win private scholarships than minority students.
Some scholarships are only offered to students once they are in college. International and national scholarships offer students the ability to immerse themselves abroad or receive additional funding.
This week, Ball Bearings explores the impact of scholarships–from the athletes who are paid to play to the low-income students who must afford college without scholarships.
“Taking Time for Scholarships,” letter by Executive Editor Kaitlyn Arford
This week, Ball Bearings explores the importance of scholarships in pursuing higher education.
“The Academic Athlete,” a reported story by Samantha Stevenson
Around two percent of high school athletes are awarded athletics scholarships for college. While many dream, very few become professional athletes.
“Navigating the Low-Income Gap,” an essay by Carli Scalf
There is a significant disparity between low-income and high-income students when it comes to obtaining a degree. While many underprivileged students don’t receive merit-based scholarships, there are other options.
“Ongoing Opportunity,” a Q&A by Katie Grieze
National and international scholarships provide current students with either general funding or immersive experiences.
