Financial Support
Institutional financial aid is administered by each member institution and begins with "the cost of attendance (which is) an amount calculated by an institutional financial aid office, using federal regulations, that includes (NCAA, p. 176):

• Total cost of tuition and fees
• Room and board
• Books and supplies
• Transportation
• Other expenses related to attendance at the institution

Education
An athletic scholarship can provide the means for students who want to compete athletically and attend an institution and earn a degree. The cost of this education can vary widely depending on the type of school the athlete attends.  Traditionally, the attendance at private universities is significantly more expensive than the expenses at public institutions.  Student athletes can be perceived as semi-professionals who receive an athletic education of significant value in exchange for a paycheck. Additionally, the values acquired through engaging in athletic activities should be consistent with values learned in the academic curriculum.  The athletic experience should aim at maximizing the development of students both physically, mentally, and emotionally.

Academic Support
Admission advantages for student athletes have increased significantly over time. Most member institutions now provide an academic support center that focuses on the retention of student athletes through academic eligibility guidelines established by the individual institutions and the organizations they are affiliated with (NCAA, NAIA, NJCAA).

Academic counselors serve as guides to student athletes by assisting in:

• Time management
• Class registration
• Tutoring
• Meeting requirements
• Post graduation opportunities

The counselors can become mentors in ways coaches are unable to. Academic counselors do not determine athletes' playing time, which often allows them to develop a stronger relationship. Once student athletes demonstrate that they have adapted to the curriculum, counselors will allow students more independence in terms of class preparation and registration.

Room and Board
Residential requirements vary significantly throughout colleges and universities.  The requirements can range from mandatory dormitory stays to off-campus housing. Each institution has a philosophical approach to residential education that results in a more integrated campus community in terms of student athletes and their peers.

Other Benefit
While competing at a collegiate level, student athletes can receive:

• Equipment
• Marketing assistance for teams and individuals
• Earn various achievement awards 
• The bond and friendship of teammates
• Travel experiences to different regions, which can provide athletes with opportunities to grow socially, intellectually and athletically