College Football Divisions

Division I - FBS
(Football Bowl Subdivision)
  • Full athletic scholarships available (85 per team)
  • Highly competitive, with widespread media coverage
  • Strong pipeline to professional leagues

The highest level of NCAA football, FBS programs have the largest budgets, facilities, and national exposure. These schools often attract top athletes and compete for major bowl games and the College Football Playoff.

Number of schools: 129

Conferences :10

Chances of being recruited: 1%

See Division I FBS
Division I - FCS
(Football Championship Subdivision)
  • Partial scholarships are common
  • Competitive football with regional focus
  • Supports combining athletics with academics

FCS programs offer a strong balance of competition and academics, often serving mid-sized schools. While they don’t have the same funding as FBS, FCS teams compete in an exciting playoff system for their national championship.

Number of schools: 129

Conferences :13

Chances of being recruited: 2.50%

See Division I FCS
NCAA Division II
  • Partial scholarships are available
  • Smaller schools with a tight-knit community
  • Excellent choice for balancing sports and education

Division II schools focus on offering athletes opportunities to compete while prioritizing academics and regional competition. These programs foster a more individualized student-athlete experience.

Number of schools: 169

Conferences :23

Chances of being recruited: 5%

See Division II
NCAA Division III
  • Financial aid and academic scholarships available
  • Athletics complement academic goals
  • Focus on participation and personal growth

Division III emphasizes academics over athletics, offering no athletic scholarships. It provides a great environment for students who want to play competitively without sacrificing other college experiences.

Number of schools: 249

Conferences :30

Chances of being recruited: 8%

See Division III
JUnior college athletics
  • Varying scholarship opportunities
  • Great for improving skills or grades
  • Helps athletes gain exposure for transfers

Junior colleges allow athletes to develop academically and athletically before transferring to four-year schools. JUCO teams are often stepping stones for players aiming for NCAA or NAIA programs.

Number of schools: 125

Conferences :24

Chances of being recruited: 15-20%

See JuCo
National Association of Intercollegiate Athletics
  • Flexible athletic scholarships available
  • Community-focused with personal attention
  • Competes nationally with a unique playoff system

NAIA programs combine athletics with an emphasis on academics and community. These schools are smaller than NCAA institutions but offer a competitive level of play and scholarship opportunities.

Number of schools: 93

Conferences :93

Chances of being recruited: 10-12%

See NAIA

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