Your Guide to Getting Recruited for Women’s College Gymnastics

For many, the most exciting parts of college gymnastics recruiting are the camps, campus visits, and evaluations. But behind the scenes, successful recruiting requires careful planning—from researching schools to reaching out to coaches and creating a standout recruiting video. This guide provides an overview of what coaches look for in recruits, the skills needed at each division level, and tips for finding the best college fit.

NCAA Gymnastics Recruiting Rules and Calendar

The NCAA sets specific timelines for recruiting, outlining when and how coaches can engage with potential recruits. For women’s gymnastics, coaches can start reaching out personally starting June 15 between sophomore and junior year. Knowing these key dates allows student-athletes to prepare effectively and maximize opportunities to connect with college coaches.

Determine Your Division Level with Gymnastics Recruiting Guidelines

Gymnastics coaches at each division have specific expectations for skills, levels, and competition experience. Most Division 1 gymnasts, for example, reach Level 10 in the Junior Olympic Program. Understanding the skills and levels required at each division helps athletes target programs that align with their experience.

How to Get a Women’s Gymnastics Scholarship

Full-ride scholarships are rare, even in Division 1, where 62 programs each offer up to 12 headcount scholarships per year. Division 2 schools provide equivalency scholarships, often dividing aid among multiple team members. Division 3 does not offer athletic scholarships but has financial aid packages combining academic and need-based aid.

How to Get Recruited for College Gymnastics

The path to college gymnastics recruitment varies for each student-athlete. Success often involves researching colleges, creating a recruiting profile and video, participating in high-level competitions, and maintaining contact with coaches through emails, calls, and campus visits. Familiarize yourself with each step to make informed decisions throughout the journey.

What College Coaches Look for in a Gymnastics Recruiting Video

A well-crafted recruiting video is crucial. College coaches use these videos to evaluate potential recruits remotely, allowing athletes to showcase their skills across all apparatuses. Ensure your video is clear, highlights your top performances, and includes all necessary technical skills for your division level.

Find Women’s Gymnastics Camps for Exposure

College gymnastics camps provide valuable exposure, helping athletes gain visibility with coaches and measure up against other talented gymnasts. Some high-level camps at top programs are invite-only, making it essential to reach out and get on coaches’ radars in advance. Researching and selecting the right camps is key to maximizing your recruitment opportunities.

Complete List of Colleges with Women’s Gymnastics

With only 86 NCAA programs offering women’s gymnastics, options are limited. Researching each school’s academic and athletic offerings will help you identify the best fit. Consider factors like cost, campus life, location, and school size, and build a balanced list of target programs to increase your chances of a successful recruiting journey.

By understanding the recruitment process and preparing effectively, you can set yourself up for success in the competitive world of college gymnastics.