Acrobatics and Tumbling

NCAA Acrobatics & Tumbling Scholarships 2025–26: What Every Family Needs to Know

📑 Table of Contents

  1. What Is an Acrobatics & Tumbling Scholarship?

  2. How Many NCAA Acrobatics & Tumbling Scholarships Are There in 2025–26?

  3. When Can Acrobatics & Tumbling Coaches Contact Recruits?

  4. What Do Coaches Look For in Acrobatics & Tumbling Recruits?

  5. Acrobatics & Tumbling Recruiting Timeline (Freshman to Senior Year)

  6. Partial vs. Full Scholarships: What to Expect

  7. Common Recruiting Mistakes to Avoid

  8. FAQs

  9. Further Reading: Related Resources

👉 Download the Playbook now to get the complete system, including templates, timelines, and insider breakdowns coaches don’t publish.

Introduction

If your athlete dreams of competing in NCAA Acrobatics & Tumbling, the next two years are critical. A&T is one of the fastest-growing women’s sports in the country — with dozens of new programs launching at Division I, II, and III schools. That growth means new acrobatics and tumbling scholarships are available every season, but it also means more gymnasts and cheer athletes are jumping into the recruiting pool.

Because A&T is an equivalency sport, most scholarships are partial awards. Coaches often stack athletic money with academic or need-based aid to build packages. For families, that means academics matter just as much as tumbling passes and pyramids.

At the same time, NCAA recruiting rules are strict: miss a deadline or delay outreach, and your athlete can fall behind competitors who already have highlight videos, transcripts, and camp schedules ready.

This guide gives you the foundation you need to understand how Acrobatics & Tumbling scholarships work. If you want the step-by-step system — including email templates, recruiting timelines, and real-world examples from current NCAA athletes — you’ll find all of that in our Acrobatics & Tumbling Scholarship Playbook.

👉 For a full overview of NCAA scholarship rules across every sport, see our NCAA Scholarship Resource Hub.

NCAA Acrobatics & Tumbling Scholarship Limits (2025–26)

Because Acrobatics & Tumbling is still classified as an emerging NCAA sport, scholarship numbers vary widely by division and by program. While some schools fund the maximum allowed, many are still building budgets as the sport grows. Here’s what you need to know:

Level

Scholarships

Avg Roster

Aid Type

Notes

NCAA D1

~12 equiv.

28–36

Athletic + merit

Equivalency sport, partial awards common

NCAA D2

~6 equiv.

24–32

Athletic + merit

Often stacked with academics

NCAA D3/Ivy

0

20–28

Merit/need aid

No athletic scholarships

NAIA

Up to 12

20–28

Athletic + merit

Flexible distribution allowed

JUCO

Varies

18–24

Athletic + academic

No NCAA restrictions

Key Takeaways

  • Division I: Typically allows up to 12 equivalency scholarships, spread across larger rosters (28–36 athletes). Most awards are partial.

  • Division II: Around 6 equivalencies per program. Academic aid is often a big piece of packages.

  • Division III/Ivy: No athletic aid, but strong merit and need-based financial packages exist.

  • NAIA: Up to 12 scholarships, with more flexibility in how they’re distributed than NCAA rules allow.

  • JUCO: Junior colleges vary by program, but often provide academic + athletic aid with fewer restrictions.

👉 Want to see how real teams slice their scholarship budgets by class and position? We break down sample rosters and aid packages inside the Acrobatics & Tumbling Scholarship Playbook.

NCAA Recruiting Contact Dates for Acrobatics & Tumbling

Understanding when coaches can officially reach out is critical. Even though Acrobatics & Tumbling is still an emerging sport, programs follow the same NCAA recruiting calendar used in other equivalency sports.

  • June 15 after sophomore year – Coaches can begin calling, texting, and emailing recruits. This is the first “official” window when conversations can start.

  • September 1 of junior year – Expanded contact period. Coaches may now invite you to campus, discuss recruiting timelines, and make verbal offers. “Midnight calls” are common — some athletes hear from coaches the moment the clock strikes 12:01 a.m.

  • Unofficial visits and camp invites – You can attend ID camps, clinics, and visit campuses before these dates, but coaches cannot initiate recruiting conversations until the official windows open.

  • Non-NCAA options (NAIA & JUCO) – These programs often operate on different, more flexible timelines. That means athletes may hear from them earlier, especially if they’re looking to secure talent quickly.

👉 Not sure how to prepare for June 15 and September 1? The Acrobatics & Tumbling Scholarship Playbook includes email templates, outreach timelines, and prep checklists so you’re ready when the first calls and messages come in.

What Coaches Look For in Acrobatics & Tumbling Recruits

Acrobatics & Tumbling (A&T) is unlike any other NCAA sport because it blends skills from gymnastics, competitive cheer, tumbling, and dance. Coaches recruit across all these backgrounds — but they look for specific traits that predict success on the mat.

Key Backgrounds Coaches Recruit

  • USAG Level 8–10 gymnasts

  • Competitive cheerleaders (sideline or all-star)

  • Power tumblers with clean form

  • Dancers who show body control and flexibility

Top Traits That Get You Noticed

  • Explosiveness and strength in tumbling and partner stunts

  • Clean technique (straight legs, pointed toes, strong landings)

  • Coachability and a team-first mindset — A&T is built on trust and precision

  • Confidence in pyramids, tosses, and mid-layer roles

  • Positive attitude and competitive drive

Performance Metrics Coaches Track

Unlike gymnastics, there’s no single score average. Instead, coaches evaluate:

  • Tumbling skills: back handsprings, tucks, layouts, fulls

  • Versatility: ability to base, top, or mid-layer in stunts

  • Conditioning: strength and fitness levels (sometimes tested at clinics)

Highlight Video Essentials

Coaches rely heavily on video when evaluating athletes — especially those without A&T competition experience. You need to understand how to create an acrobatics and tumbling highlight video. Your video should include:

  • Tumbling passes from meets or practice (label each skill)

  • Pyramids, tosses, and group stunts from cheer/acro

  • Clips that show flexibility, explosiveness, and teamwork

  • 3–4 minutes max, with clean execution prioritized over flashy edits

See our resource on Creating Highlight Videos.

👉 The Acrobatics & Tumbling Scholarship Playbook goes deeper with a video checklist, sample athlete profile tracker, and specific recruiting red flags to avoid — so families know exactly how to present their athlete to coaches.

Acrobatics & Tumbling Recruiting Timeline (Freshman to Senior Year)

Because A&T is a rapidly expanding NCAA sport, early preparation makes a big difference. Coaches often evaluate athletes from gymnastics, cheer, and tumbling backgrounds long before official contact dates. You need to understand the acrobatics and tumbling recruiting timeline for freshman, sophomore, junior and senior years. Here’s how to stay ahead year by year:

Freshman Year

  • Build a strong academic base — aim for a 3.3+ GPA.

  • Continue training in gymnastics, competitive cheer, or tumbling.

  • Record practice videos to begin building your highlight reel.

  • Create a simple athletic resume with GPA, events, and skills.

  • Send introductory emails to coaches — they can’t reply yet, but it gets your name on their radar. How To Email Coaches

Sophomore Year

  • Update your highlight video with clean tumbling passes and stunt skills.

  • Email coaches with your GPA, test plans, and video link.

  • Attend college clinics and ID camps — exposure matters early.

  • Register with the NCAA Eligibility Center to get ahead of paperwork.

  • By June 15, you want to already be on multiple recruiting lists.

Junior Year

  • From June 15 after sophomore year, coaches can begin responding — calls, texts, and emails are now allowed.

  • Focus on video updates that highlight improved difficulty and clean execution.

  • Visit campuses and attend official clinics.

  • Keep GPA strong — academic money is often stacked with athletic aid.

  • Begin narrowing your list of target schools.

Senior Year

  • Finalize highlight video and recruiting resume.

  • Compare aid packages — athletic, merit, and need-based aid combined.

  • Continue outreach to coaches for clarity on roster spots.

  • Complete Eligibility Center amateurism certification.

  • Make your verbal or written commitment.

👉 The Acrobatics & Tumbling Scholarship Playbook includes GPA checks, outreach deadlines, and video update reminders — so families never miss a key milestone.

Partial vs. Full Scholarships: What to Expect

Acrobatics & Tumbling is classified as an equivalency sport, which means coaches can divide their available scholarships among many athletes instead of awarding a few full rides. For most families, this means expecting partial scholarships rather than 100% coverage.

The Growing Landscape of NAIA and Club Acrobatics & Tumbling Scholarships: Alternative Paths to College Athletics

How Scholarships Are Distributed

  • Division I: Programs may have the equivalent of ~12 scholarships, typically spread across rosters of 28–36 athletes.

  • Division II: Around 6 equivalencies per program, usually shared across rosters of 24–32.

  • Division III/Ivy: No athletic scholarships, but strong academic merit and need-based aid can still cover significant costs.

  • NAIA/Other: More flexibility in distribution, with some schools offering packages that combine athletic and academic awards.

What Families Should Expect

  • Partial awards are the norm — for example, one athlete may get a 30% scholarship while another gets 50%, depending on role and academic standing.

  • Academic performance is critical — coaches often expect athletes to bring strong GPAs so academic money can be stacked with athletic aid. Be aware of acrobatics and tumbling GPA requirements. Check out Grades First: A Parent's guide to NCAA Core Courses.

  • Full rides are rare — but possible if a school has budget flexibility and an athlete is an impact recruit in a key role. You need to know about all of the acrobatics and tumbling scholarship opportunities.

👉 The Acrobatics & Tumbling Scholarship Playbook explains how equivalency scholarships work, with examples of how coaches balance roster needs, aid budgets, and academics to build packages that make college more affordable.

Common Recruiting Mistakes to Avoid

Even strong athletes can lose opportunities if they overlook key recruiting details. Here are the most common mistakes families make in Acrobatics & Tumbling recruiting:

  • Waiting too long to start — Many athletes delay outreach until junior or senior year, but coaches are already tracking prospects by sophomore year. Get acquainted with the acrobatics and tumbling recruiting process.

  • Submitting weak highlight videos — Coaches need to see tumbling, acro, and versatility in stunts. Short, polished clips beat long, unfocused reels. Understand how to create an acrobatics and tumbling highlight video.

  • Ignoring academics — Because scholarships are often stacked, a low GPA can limit aid packages or disqualify you from admission.

  • Not registering with the NCAA Eligibility Center early enough — Waiting until senior year can block official visits or delay offers. NCAA Initial Eligibility Requirements

  • Understanding the differences for International students — See the NCAA Guide for International Students and our resource on International Students and NCAA Scholarships.

  • Assuming coaches or counselors manage the process — Families must take ownership of eligibility, transcripts, and communication.

  • Focusing only on D1 — Division II, NAIA, and even club programs offer strong opportunities and financial aid. Find out more information at the National Collegiate Acrobatics and Tumbling Association website.

👉 The Acrobatics & Tumbling Scholarship Playbook includes a recruiting red flag checklist so you can avoid the mistakes that most often derail athletes during the process.

FAQs About Acrobatics & Tumbling Scholarships

How many NCAA Acrobatics & Tumbling scholarships are there?
Division I programs may award up to 12 equivalency scholarships, while Division II programs average about 6. Division III and Ivy League schools do not offer athletic scholarships but provide academic and need-based aid.

What is the Acrobatics and Tumbling recruiting process?
The process begins with strong academics and early outreach in freshman and sophomore year. NCAA coaches can start contacting recruits on June 15 after sophomore year, with expanded communication from September 1 of junior year. Most athletes finalize visits, aid packages, and commitments during senior year.

Are scholarships full or partial?
Most scholarships are partial. Coaches stack athletic, academic, and need-based aid to create packages.

When can coaches start contacting recruits?
NCAA rules allow coaches to call, text, or email starting June 15 after sophomore year, with expanded communication and visit opportunities beginning September 1 of junior year.

What do coaches look for in A&T recruits?
Explosive tumbling, versatility in stunts, clean technique, strong academics, and a positive team-first attitude.

Do men compete in NCAA Acrobatics & Tumbling?
At the NCAA level, A&T is a women’s sport, though men may compete in club or other programs.

When should families start the recruiting process?
Freshman year is the best time to begin preparing with GPA focus, highlight video clips, and introductory outreach.

👉 For more detailed recruiting steps and templates, see the Acrobatics & Tumbling Scholarship Playbook.

Further Reading: Related Resources

Final Thoughts

Acrobatics & Tumbling is one of the fastest-growing NCAA sports, with new programs — and new scholarships — added every season. But while opportunities are expanding, the competition is also intensifying as gymnasts, cheerleaders, and tumblers from across the country (and internationally) join the recruiting pool.

Talent on the mat is essential, but without strong academics, a clear recruiting plan, and timely communication with coaches, opportunities can slip away before they even open. Families who prepare early — with GPA tracking, video updates, and Eligibility Center registration — consistently unlock more options and stronger scholarship packages.

Those who wait often find doors closing before they knew they existed.

🚨 Don’t Risk Your Athlete’s Future

  • Scarcity: A&T scholarships are limited and most are partial.

  • Urgency: Every semester you wait is one you can’t get back.

  • Leverage: Strong academics and smart outreach can turn partial offers into affordable college packages.

👉 Don’t leave eligibility — and recruiting — to chance. Download the Acrobatics & Tumbling Scholarship Playbook today and get GPA trackers, video checklists, and recruiting strategies designed to help your athlete stand out in this growing NCAA sport.

Get the Acrobatics & Tumbling Scholarship Playbook today →

Cover of the NCAA Acrobatics & Tumbling Scholarship Playbook — step-by-step recruiting guide with timelines, GPA checklists, and scholarship strategies

NCAA Acrobatics & Tumbling Scholarships 2025–26: What Every Family Needs to Know

📑 Table of Contents

  1. What Is an Acrobatics & Tumbling Scholarship?

  2. How Many NCAA Acrobatics & Tumbling Scholarships Are There in 2025–26?

  3. When Can Acrobatics & Tumbling Coaches Contact Recruits?

  4. What Do Coaches Look For in Acrobatics & Tumbling Recruits?

  5. Acrobatics & Tumbling Recruiting Timeline (Freshman to Senior Year)

  6. Partial vs. Full Scholarships: What to Expect

  7. Common Recruiting Mistakes to Avoid

  8. FAQs

  9. Further Reading: Related Resources

👉 Download the Playbook now to get the complete system, including templates, timelines, and insider breakdowns coaches don’t publish.

Introduction

If your athlete dreams of competing in NCAA Acrobatics & Tumbling, the next two years are critical. A&T is one of the fastest-growing women’s sports in the country — with dozens of new programs launching at Division I, II, and III schools. That growth means new acrobatics and tumbling scholarships are available every season, but it also means more gymnasts and cheer athletes are jumping into the recruiting pool.

Because A&T is an equivalency sport, most scholarships are partial awards. Coaches often stack athletic money with academic or need-based aid to build packages. For families, that means academics matter just as much as tumbling passes and pyramids.

At the same time, NCAA recruiting rules are strict: miss a deadline or delay outreach, and your athlete can fall behind competitors who already have highlight videos, transcripts, and camp schedules ready.

This guide gives you the foundation you need to understand how Acrobatics & Tumbling scholarships work. If you want the step-by-step system — including email templates, recruiting timelines, and real-world examples from current NCAA athletes — you’ll find all of that in our Acrobatics & Tumbling Scholarship Playbook.

👉 For a full overview of NCAA scholarship rules across every sport, see our NCAA Scholarship Resource Hub.

NCAA Acrobatics & Tumbling Scholarship Limits (2025–26)

Because Acrobatics & Tumbling is still classified as an emerging NCAA sport, scholarship numbers vary widely by division and by program. While some schools fund the maximum allowed, many are still building budgets as the sport grows. Here’s what you need to know:

Level

Scholarships

Avg Roster

Aid Type

Notes

NCAA D1

~12 equiv.

28–36

Athletic + merit

Equivalency sport, partial awards common

NCAA D2

~6 equiv.

24–32

Athletic + merit

Often stacked with academics

NCAA D3/Ivy

0

20–28

Merit/need aid

No athletic scholarships

NAIA

Up to 12

20–28

Athletic + merit

Flexible distribution allowed

JUCO

Varies

18–24

Athletic + academic

No NCAA restrictions

Key Takeaways

  • Division I: Typically allows up to 12 equivalency scholarships, spread across larger rosters (28–36 athletes). Most awards are partial.

  • Division II: Around 6 equivalencies per program. Academic aid is often a big piece of packages.

  • Division III/Ivy: No athletic aid, but strong merit and need-based financial packages exist.

  • NAIA: Up to 12 scholarships, with more flexibility in how they’re distributed than NCAA rules allow.

  • JUCO: Junior colleges vary by program, but often provide academic + athletic aid with fewer restrictions.

👉 Want to see how real teams slice their scholarship budgets by class and position? We break down sample rosters and aid packages inside the Acrobatics & Tumbling Scholarship Playbook.

NCAA Recruiting Contact Dates for Acrobatics & Tumbling

Understanding when coaches can officially reach out is critical. Even though Acrobatics & Tumbling is still an emerging sport, programs follow the same NCAA recruiting calendar used in other equivalency sports.

  • June 15 after sophomore year – Coaches can begin calling, texting, and emailing recruits. This is the first “official” window when conversations can start.

  • September 1 of junior year – Expanded contact period. Coaches may now invite you to campus, discuss recruiting timelines, and make verbal offers. “Midnight calls” are common — some athletes hear from coaches the moment the clock strikes 12:01 a.m.

  • Unofficial visits and camp invites – You can attend ID camps, clinics, and visit campuses before these dates, but coaches cannot initiate recruiting conversations until the official windows open.

  • Non-NCAA options (NAIA & JUCO) – These programs often operate on different, more flexible timelines. That means athletes may hear from them earlier, especially if they’re looking to secure talent quickly.

👉 Not sure how to prepare for June 15 and September 1? The Acrobatics & Tumbling Scholarship Playbook includes email templates, outreach timelines, and prep checklists so you’re ready when the first calls and messages come in.

What Coaches Look For in Acrobatics & Tumbling Recruits

Acrobatics & Tumbling (A&T) is unlike any other NCAA sport because it blends skills from gymnastics, competitive cheer, tumbling, and dance. Coaches recruit across all these backgrounds — but they look for specific traits that predict success on the mat.

Key Backgrounds Coaches Recruit

  • USAG Level 8–10 gymnasts

  • Competitive cheerleaders (sideline or all-star)

  • Power tumblers with clean form

  • Dancers who show body control and flexibility

Top Traits That Get You Noticed

  • Explosiveness and strength in tumbling and partner stunts

  • Clean technique (straight legs, pointed toes, strong landings)

  • Coachability and a team-first mindset — A&T is built on trust and precision

  • Confidence in pyramids, tosses, and mid-layer roles

  • Positive attitude and competitive drive

Performance Metrics Coaches Track

Unlike gymnastics, there’s no single score average. Instead, coaches evaluate:

  • Tumbling skills: back handsprings, tucks, layouts, fulls

  • Versatility: ability to base, top, or mid-layer in stunts

  • Conditioning: strength and fitness levels (sometimes tested at clinics)

Highlight Video Essentials

Coaches rely heavily on video when evaluating athletes — especially those without A&T competition experience. You need to understand how to create an acrobatics and tumbling highlight video. Your video should include:

  • Tumbling passes from meets or practice (label each skill)

  • Pyramids, tosses, and group stunts from cheer/acro

  • Clips that show flexibility, explosiveness, and teamwork

  • 3–4 minutes max, with clean execution prioritized over flashy edits

See our resource on Creating Highlight Videos.

👉 The Acrobatics & Tumbling Scholarship Playbook goes deeper with a video checklist, sample athlete profile tracker, and specific recruiting red flags to avoid — so families know exactly how to present their athlete to coaches.

Acrobatics & Tumbling Recruiting Timeline (Freshman to Senior Year)

Because A&T is a rapidly expanding NCAA sport, early preparation makes a big difference. Coaches often evaluate athletes from gymnastics, cheer, and tumbling backgrounds long before official contact dates. You need to understand the acrobatics and tumbling recruiting timeline for freshman, sophomore, junior and senior years. Here’s how to stay ahead year by year:

Freshman Year

  • Build a strong academic base — aim for a 3.3+ GPA.

  • Continue training in gymnastics, competitive cheer, or tumbling.

  • Record practice videos to begin building your highlight reel.

  • Create a simple athletic resume with GPA, events, and skills.

  • Send introductory emails to coaches — they can’t reply yet, but it gets your name on their radar. How To Email Coaches

Sophomore Year

  • Update your highlight video with clean tumbling passes and stunt skills.

  • Email coaches with your GPA, test plans, and video link.

  • Attend college clinics and ID camps — exposure matters early.

  • Register with the NCAA Eligibility Center to get ahead of paperwork.

  • By June 15, you want to already be on multiple recruiting lists.

Junior Year

  • From June 15 after sophomore year, coaches can begin responding — calls, texts, and emails are now allowed.

  • Focus on video updates that highlight improved difficulty and clean execution.

  • Visit campuses and attend official clinics.

  • Keep GPA strong — academic money is often stacked with athletic aid.

  • Begin narrowing your list of target schools.

Senior Year

  • Finalize highlight video and recruiting resume.

  • Compare aid packages — athletic, merit, and need-based aid combined.

  • Continue outreach to coaches for clarity on roster spots.

  • Complete Eligibility Center amateurism certification.

  • Make your verbal or written commitment.

👉 The Acrobatics & Tumbling Scholarship Playbook includes GPA checks, outreach deadlines, and video update reminders — so families never miss a key milestone.

Partial vs. Full Scholarships: What to Expect

Acrobatics & Tumbling is classified as an equivalency sport, which means coaches can divide their available scholarships among many athletes instead of awarding a few full rides. For most families, this means expecting partial scholarships rather than 100% coverage.

The Growing Landscape of NAIA and Club Acrobatics & Tumbling Scholarships: Alternative Paths to College Athletics

How Scholarships Are Distributed

  • Division I: Programs may have the equivalent of ~12 scholarships, typically spread across rosters of 28–36 athletes.

  • Division II: Around 6 equivalencies per program, usually shared across rosters of 24–32.

  • Division III/Ivy: No athletic scholarships, but strong academic merit and need-based aid can still cover significant costs.

  • NAIA/Other: More flexibility in distribution, with some schools offering packages that combine athletic and academic awards.

What Families Should Expect

  • Partial awards are the norm — for example, one athlete may get a 30% scholarship while another gets 50%, depending on role and academic standing.

  • Academic performance is critical — coaches often expect athletes to bring strong GPAs so academic money can be stacked with athletic aid. Be aware of acrobatics and tumbling GPA requirements. Check out Grades First: A Parent's guide to NCAA Core Courses.

  • Full rides are rare — but possible if a school has budget flexibility and an athlete is an impact recruit in a key role. You need to know about all of the acrobatics and tumbling scholarship opportunities.

👉 The Acrobatics & Tumbling Scholarship Playbook explains how equivalency scholarships work, with examples of how coaches balance roster needs, aid budgets, and academics to build packages that make college more affordable.

Common Recruiting Mistakes to Avoid

Even strong athletes can lose opportunities if they overlook key recruiting details. Here are the most common mistakes families make in Acrobatics & Tumbling recruiting:

  • Waiting too long to start — Many athletes delay outreach until junior or senior year, but coaches are already tracking prospects by sophomore year. Get acquainted with the acrobatics and tumbling recruiting process.

  • Submitting weak highlight videos — Coaches need to see tumbling, acro, and versatility in stunts. Short, polished clips beat long, unfocused reels. Understand how to create an acrobatics and tumbling highlight video.

  • Ignoring academics — Because scholarships are often stacked, a low GPA can limit aid packages or disqualify you from admission.

  • Not registering with the NCAA Eligibility Center early enough — Waiting until senior year can block official visits or delay offers. NCAA Initial Eligibility Requirements

  • Understanding the differences for International students — See the NCAA Guide for International Students and our resource on International Students and NCAA Scholarships.

  • Assuming coaches or counselors manage the process — Families must take ownership of eligibility, transcripts, and communication.

  • Focusing only on D1 — Division II, NAIA, and even club programs offer strong opportunities and financial aid. Find out more information at the National Collegiate Acrobatics and Tumbling Association website.

👉 The Acrobatics & Tumbling Scholarship Playbook includes a recruiting red flag checklist so you can avoid the mistakes that most often derail athletes during the process.

FAQs About Acrobatics & Tumbling Scholarships

How many NCAA Acrobatics & Tumbling scholarships are there?
Division I programs may award up to 12 equivalency scholarships, while Division II programs average about 6. Division III and Ivy League schools do not offer athletic scholarships but provide academic and need-based aid.

What is the Acrobatics and Tumbling recruiting process?
The process begins with strong academics and early outreach in freshman and sophomore year. NCAA coaches can start contacting recruits on June 15 after sophomore year, with expanded communication from September 1 of junior year. Most athletes finalize visits, aid packages, and commitments during senior year.

Are scholarships full or partial?
Most scholarships are partial. Coaches stack athletic, academic, and need-based aid to create packages.

When can coaches start contacting recruits?
NCAA rules allow coaches to call, text, or email starting June 15 after sophomore year, with expanded communication and visit opportunities beginning September 1 of junior year.

What do coaches look for in A&T recruits?
Explosive tumbling, versatility in stunts, clean technique, strong academics, and a positive team-first attitude.

Do men compete in NCAA Acrobatics & Tumbling?
At the NCAA level, A&T is a women’s sport, though men may compete in club or other programs.

When should families start the recruiting process?
Freshman year is the best time to begin preparing with GPA focus, highlight video clips, and introductory outreach.

👉 For more detailed recruiting steps and templates, see the Acrobatics & Tumbling Scholarship Playbook.

Further Reading: Related Resources

Final Thoughts

Acrobatics & Tumbling is one of the fastest-growing NCAA sports, with new programs — and new scholarships — added every season. But while opportunities are expanding, the competition is also intensifying as gymnasts, cheerleaders, and tumblers from across the country (and internationally) join the recruiting pool.

Talent on the mat is essential, but without strong academics, a clear recruiting plan, and timely communication with coaches, opportunities can slip away before they even open. Families who prepare early — with GPA tracking, video updates, and Eligibility Center registration — consistently unlock more options and stronger scholarship packages.

Those who wait often find doors closing before they knew they existed.

🚨 Don’t Risk Your Athlete’s Future

  • Scarcity: A&T scholarships are limited and most are partial.

  • Urgency: Every semester you wait is one you can’t get back.

  • Leverage: Strong academics and smart outreach can turn partial offers into affordable college packages.

👉 Don’t leave eligibility — and recruiting — to chance. Download the Acrobatics & Tumbling Scholarship Playbook today and get GPA trackers, video checklists, and recruiting strategies designed to help your athlete stand out in this growing NCAA sport.

Get the Acrobatics & Tumbling Scholarship Playbook today →

Cover of the NCAA Acrobatics & Tumbling Scholarship Playbook — step-by-step recruiting guide with timelines, GPA checklists, and scholarship strategies

NCAA Acrobatics & Tumbling Scholarships 2025–26: What Every Family Needs to Know

📑 Table of Contents

  1. What Is an Acrobatics & Tumbling Scholarship?

  2. How Many NCAA Acrobatics & Tumbling Scholarships Are There in 2025–26?

  3. When Can Acrobatics & Tumbling Coaches Contact Recruits?

  4. What Do Coaches Look For in Acrobatics & Tumbling Recruits?

  5. Acrobatics & Tumbling Recruiting Timeline (Freshman to Senior Year)

  6. Partial vs. Full Scholarships: What to Expect

  7. Common Recruiting Mistakes to Avoid

  8. FAQs

  9. Further Reading: Related Resources

👉 Download the Playbook now to get the complete system, including templates, timelines, and insider breakdowns coaches don’t publish.

Introduction

If your athlete dreams of competing in NCAA Acrobatics & Tumbling, the next two years are critical. A&T is one of the fastest-growing women’s sports in the country — with dozens of new programs launching at Division I, II, and III schools. That growth means new acrobatics and tumbling scholarships are available every season, but it also means more gymnasts and cheer athletes are jumping into the recruiting pool.

Because A&T is an equivalency sport, most scholarships are partial awards. Coaches often stack athletic money with academic or need-based aid to build packages. For families, that means academics matter just as much as tumbling passes and pyramids.

At the same time, NCAA recruiting rules are strict: miss a deadline or delay outreach, and your athlete can fall behind competitors who already have highlight videos, transcripts, and camp schedules ready.

This guide gives you the foundation you need to understand how Acrobatics & Tumbling scholarships work. If you want the step-by-step system — including email templates, recruiting timelines, and real-world examples from current NCAA athletes — you’ll find all of that in our Acrobatics & Tumbling Scholarship Playbook.

👉 For a full overview of NCAA scholarship rules across every sport, see our NCAA Scholarship Resource Hub.

NCAA Acrobatics & Tumbling Scholarship Limits (2025–26)

Because Acrobatics & Tumbling is still classified as an emerging NCAA sport, scholarship numbers vary widely by division and by program. While some schools fund the maximum allowed, many are still building budgets as the sport grows. Here’s what you need to know:

Level

Scholarships

Avg Roster

Aid Type

Notes

NCAA D1

~12 equiv.

28–36

Athletic + merit

Equivalency sport, partial awards common

NCAA D2

~6 equiv.

24–32

Athletic + merit

Often stacked with academics

NCAA D3/Ivy

0

20–28

Merit/need aid

No athletic scholarships

NAIA

Up to 12

20–28

Athletic + merit

Flexible distribution allowed

JUCO

Varies

18–24

Athletic + academic

No NCAA restrictions

Key Takeaways

  • Division I: Typically allows up to 12 equivalency scholarships, spread across larger rosters (28–36 athletes). Most awards are partial.

  • Division II: Around 6 equivalencies per program. Academic aid is often a big piece of packages.

  • Division III/Ivy: No athletic aid, but strong merit and need-based financial packages exist.

  • NAIA: Up to 12 scholarships, with more flexibility in how they’re distributed than NCAA rules allow.

  • JUCO: Junior colleges vary by program, but often provide academic + athletic aid with fewer restrictions.

👉 Want to see how real teams slice their scholarship budgets by class and position? We break down sample rosters and aid packages inside the Acrobatics & Tumbling Scholarship Playbook.

NCAA Recruiting Contact Dates for Acrobatics & Tumbling

Understanding when coaches can officially reach out is critical. Even though Acrobatics & Tumbling is still an emerging sport, programs follow the same NCAA recruiting calendar used in other equivalency sports.

  • June 15 after sophomore year – Coaches can begin calling, texting, and emailing recruits. This is the first “official” window when conversations can start.

  • September 1 of junior year – Expanded contact period. Coaches may now invite you to campus, discuss recruiting timelines, and make verbal offers. “Midnight calls” are common — some athletes hear from coaches the moment the clock strikes 12:01 a.m.

  • Unofficial visits and camp invites – You can attend ID camps, clinics, and visit campuses before these dates, but coaches cannot initiate recruiting conversations until the official windows open.

  • Non-NCAA options (NAIA & JUCO) – These programs often operate on different, more flexible timelines. That means athletes may hear from them earlier, especially if they’re looking to secure talent quickly.

👉 Not sure how to prepare for June 15 and September 1? The Acrobatics & Tumbling Scholarship Playbook includes email templates, outreach timelines, and prep checklists so you’re ready when the first calls and messages come in.

What Coaches Look For in Acrobatics & Tumbling Recruits

Acrobatics & Tumbling (A&T) is unlike any other NCAA sport because it blends skills from gymnastics, competitive cheer, tumbling, and dance. Coaches recruit across all these backgrounds — but they look for specific traits that predict success on the mat.

Key Backgrounds Coaches Recruit

  • USAG Level 8–10 gymnasts

  • Competitive cheerleaders (sideline or all-star)

  • Power tumblers with clean form

  • Dancers who show body control and flexibility

Top Traits That Get You Noticed

  • Explosiveness and strength in tumbling and partner stunts

  • Clean technique (straight legs, pointed toes, strong landings)

  • Coachability and a team-first mindset — A&T is built on trust and precision

  • Confidence in pyramids, tosses, and mid-layer roles

  • Positive attitude and competitive drive

Performance Metrics Coaches Track

Unlike gymnastics, there’s no single score average. Instead, coaches evaluate:

  • Tumbling skills: back handsprings, tucks, layouts, fulls

  • Versatility: ability to base, top, or mid-layer in stunts

  • Conditioning: strength and fitness levels (sometimes tested at clinics)

Highlight Video Essentials

Coaches rely heavily on video when evaluating athletes — especially those without A&T competition experience. You need to understand how to create an acrobatics and tumbling highlight video. Your video should include:

  • Tumbling passes from meets or practice (label each skill)

  • Pyramids, tosses, and group stunts from cheer/acro

  • Clips that show flexibility, explosiveness, and teamwork

  • 3–4 minutes max, with clean execution prioritized over flashy edits

See our resource on Creating Highlight Videos.

👉 The Acrobatics & Tumbling Scholarship Playbook goes deeper with a video checklist, sample athlete profile tracker, and specific recruiting red flags to avoid — so families know exactly how to present their athlete to coaches.

Acrobatics & Tumbling Recruiting Timeline (Freshman to Senior Year)

Because A&T is a rapidly expanding NCAA sport, early preparation makes a big difference. Coaches often evaluate athletes from gymnastics, cheer, and tumbling backgrounds long before official contact dates. You need to understand the acrobatics and tumbling recruiting timeline for freshman, sophomore, junior and senior years. Here’s how to stay ahead year by year:

Freshman Year

  • Build a strong academic base — aim for a 3.3+ GPA.

  • Continue training in gymnastics, competitive cheer, or tumbling.

  • Record practice videos to begin building your highlight reel.

  • Create a simple athletic resume with GPA, events, and skills.

  • Send introductory emails to coaches — they can’t reply yet, but it gets your name on their radar. How To Email Coaches

Sophomore Year

  • Update your highlight video with clean tumbling passes and stunt skills.

  • Email coaches with your GPA, test plans, and video link.

  • Attend college clinics and ID camps — exposure matters early.

  • Register with the NCAA Eligibility Center to get ahead of paperwork.

  • By June 15, you want to already be on multiple recruiting lists.

Junior Year

  • From June 15 after sophomore year, coaches can begin responding — calls, texts, and emails are now allowed.

  • Focus on video updates that highlight improved difficulty and clean execution.

  • Visit campuses and attend official clinics.

  • Keep GPA strong — academic money is often stacked with athletic aid.

  • Begin narrowing your list of target schools.

Senior Year

  • Finalize highlight video and recruiting resume.

  • Compare aid packages — athletic, merit, and need-based aid combined.

  • Continue outreach to coaches for clarity on roster spots.

  • Complete Eligibility Center amateurism certification.

  • Make your verbal or written commitment.

👉 The Acrobatics & Tumbling Scholarship Playbook includes GPA checks, outreach deadlines, and video update reminders — so families never miss a key milestone.

Partial vs. Full Scholarships: What to Expect

Acrobatics & Tumbling is classified as an equivalency sport, which means coaches can divide their available scholarships among many athletes instead of awarding a few full rides. For most families, this means expecting partial scholarships rather than 100% coverage.

The Growing Landscape of NAIA and Club Acrobatics & Tumbling Scholarships: Alternative Paths to College Athletics

How Scholarships Are Distributed

  • Division I: Programs may have the equivalent of ~12 scholarships, typically spread across rosters of 28–36 athletes.

  • Division II: Around 6 equivalencies per program, usually shared across rosters of 24–32.

  • Division III/Ivy: No athletic scholarships, but strong academic merit and need-based aid can still cover significant costs.

  • NAIA/Other: More flexibility in distribution, with some schools offering packages that combine athletic and academic awards.

What Families Should Expect

  • Partial awards are the norm — for example, one athlete may get a 30% scholarship while another gets 50%, depending on role and academic standing.

  • Academic performance is critical — coaches often expect athletes to bring strong GPAs so academic money can be stacked with athletic aid. Be aware of acrobatics and tumbling GPA requirements. Check out Grades First: A Parent's guide to NCAA Core Courses.

  • Full rides are rare — but possible if a school has budget flexibility and an athlete is an impact recruit in a key role. You need to know about all of the acrobatics and tumbling scholarship opportunities.

👉 The Acrobatics & Tumbling Scholarship Playbook explains how equivalency scholarships work, with examples of how coaches balance roster needs, aid budgets, and academics to build packages that make college more affordable.

Common Recruiting Mistakes to Avoid

Even strong athletes can lose opportunities if they overlook key recruiting details. Here are the most common mistakes families make in Acrobatics & Tumbling recruiting:

  • Waiting too long to start — Many athletes delay outreach until junior or senior year, but coaches are already tracking prospects by sophomore year. Get acquainted with the acrobatics and tumbling recruiting process.

  • Submitting weak highlight videos — Coaches need to see tumbling, acro, and versatility in stunts. Short, polished clips beat long, unfocused reels. Understand how to create an acrobatics and tumbling highlight video.

  • Ignoring academics — Because scholarships are often stacked, a low GPA can limit aid packages or disqualify you from admission.

  • Not registering with the NCAA Eligibility Center early enough — Waiting until senior year can block official visits or delay offers. NCAA Initial Eligibility Requirements

  • Understanding the differences for International students — See the NCAA Guide for International Students and our resource on International Students and NCAA Scholarships.

  • Assuming coaches or counselors manage the process — Families must take ownership of eligibility, transcripts, and communication.

  • Focusing only on D1 — Division II, NAIA, and even club programs offer strong opportunities and financial aid. Find out more information at the National Collegiate Acrobatics and Tumbling Association website.

👉 The Acrobatics & Tumbling Scholarship Playbook includes a recruiting red flag checklist so you can avoid the mistakes that most often derail athletes during the process.

FAQs About Acrobatics & Tumbling Scholarships

How many NCAA Acrobatics & Tumbling scholarships are there?
Division I programs may award up to 12 equivalency scholarships, while Division II programs average about 6. Division III and Ivy League schools do not offer athletic scholarships but provide academic and need-based aid.

What is the Acrobatics and Tumbling recruiting process?
The process begins with strong academics and early outreach in freshman and sophomore year. NCAA coaches can start contacting recruits on June 15 after sophomore year, with expanded communication from September 1 of junior year. Most athletes finalize visits, aid packages, and commitments during senior year.

Are scholarships full or partial?
Most scholarships are partial. Coaches stack athletic, academic, and need-based aid to create packages.

When can coaches start contacting recruits?
NCAA rules allow coaches to call, text, or email starting June 15 after sophomore year, with expanded communication and visit opportunities beginning September 1 of junior year.

What do coaches look for in A&T recruits?
Explosive tumbling, versatility in stunts, clean technique, strong academics, and a positive team-first attitude.

Do men compete in NCAA Acrobatics & Tumbling?
At the NCAA level, A&T is a women’s sport, though men may compete in club or other programs.

When should families start the recruiting process?
Freshman year is the best time to begin preparing with GPA focus, highlight video clips, and introductory outreach.

👉 For more detailed recruiting steps and templates, see the Acrobatics & Tumbling Scholarship Playbook.

Further Reading: Related Resources

Final Thoughts

Acrobatics & Tumbling is one of the fastest-growing NCAA sports, with new programs — and new scholarships — added every season. But while opportunities are expanding, the competition is also intensifying as gymnasts, cheerleaders, and tumblers from across the country (and internationally) join the recruiting pool.

Talent on the mat is essential, but without strong academics, a clear recruiting plan, and timely communication with coaches, opportunities can slip away before they even open. Families who prepare early — with GPA tracking, video updates, and Eligibility Center registration — consistently unlock more options and stronger scholarship packages.

Those who wait often find doors closing before they knew they existed.

🚨 Don’t Risk Your Athlete’s Future

  • Scarcity: A&T scholarships are limited and most are partial.

  • Urgency: Every semester you wait is one you can’t get back.

  • Leverage: Strong academics and smart outreach can turn partial offers into affordable college packages.

👉 Don’t leave eligibility — and recruiting — to chance. Download the Acrobatics & Tumbling Scholarship Playbook today and get GPA trackers, video checklists, and recruiting strategies designed to help your athlete stand out in this growing NCAA sport.

Get the Acrobatics & Tumbling Scholarship Playbook today →

Cover of the NCAA Acrobatics & Tumbling Scholarship Playbook — step-by-step recruiting guide with timelines, GPA checklists, and scholarship strategies

Stay Ahead of the Game — Join our Parent Insider List

Get expert tips, NCAA recruiting insights, and early access to new guides — straight to your inbox.

Your privacy is important to us. You'll only receive valuable content and updates from us.

Stay Ahead of the Game — Join our Parent Insider List

Get expert tips, NCAA recruiting insights, and early access to new guides — straight to your inbox.

Your privacy is important to us. You'll only receive valuable content and updates from us.

Stay Ahead of the Game — Join our Parent Insider List

Get expert tips, NCAA recruiting insights, and early access to new guides — straight to your inbox.

Your privacy is important to us. You'll only receive valuable content and updates from us.

Stay Ahead of the Game — Join our Parent Insider List

Get expert tips, NCAA recruiting insights, and early access to new guides — straight to your inbox.

Your privacy is important to us. You'll only receive valuable content and updates from us.