U.S. College and University Equestrian Scholarships: Schools, Requirements, and How to Earn One

For many riders, the goal doesn’t end after high school. It continues in the show ring, on a college team, and alongside a degree that sets them up for what comes next.

Yes, riders can earn scholarships for horseback riding. College equestrian scholarships are offered through varsity programs, equine studies departments, and outside organizations that support students pursuing riding, horse-centered education, or both.

If you’re starting to think about riding in college, this guide breaks down how equestrian scholarships work, who qualifies, where to look, and how to build an application that gets noticed.

What is an equestrian scholarship?

An equestrian scholarship is financial aid awarded to students based on riding ability, involvement in the horse industry, academic interests in equine studies, or a combination of these factors.

Some scholarships are tied directly to competition. These are athletic scholarships awarded by colleges with varsity equestrian programs, where riders are recruited to compete for the school.

Others are academic or industry-based scholarships. These may support students studying equine science, equine business, animal science, pre-veterinary medicine, or other related fields, whether or not they plan to compete in college.

That distinction matters. Athletic scholarships, academic equine scholarships, and private equestrian scholarships each come with different eligibility rules, application processes, and award amounts. In some cases, students may be able to combine more than one source of funding to help cover college costs.

How do equestrian scholarships work?

Most equestrian scholarships come from one of three places:

Athletic scholarships

These are awarded by colleges with varsity equestrian programs. If you receive one, you are typically expected to compete for the school. Coaches play a major role in recruiting and scholarship decisions.

Institutional scholarships

Some colleges and universities offer scholarships through equine studies, animal science, or agricultural programs. These are often based more on academics, career interest, or financial need than on competitive riding ability.

External scholarships

Breed associations, equestrian foundations, and horse industry organizations offer scholarships that are not tied to one specific school. These can often be applied to the college you choose to attend.

Unlike a traditional academic merit scholarship that is based mostly on GPA or test scores, riding scholarships usually depend on a broader mix of factors: your competition background, riding skill, video, academic record, and how well you fit a team’s needs in a given recruiting class.

It is also important to understand that most athletic equestrian scholarships are not full rides. In many programs, coaches divide available funding among multiple riders rather than awarding a single large scholarship to one athlete.

Who qualifies for equestrian scholarships?

Eligibility depends on the scholarship, but most programs look at some mix of academics, riding experience, involvement in the horse world, and future goals.

Common requirements include:

• A minimum GPA, often in the 2.5 to 3.0 range
• A record of competition or riding experience
• Membership in organizations such as USEF, AQHA, USEA, NRHA, or IHSA
• Letters of recommendation from trainers, instructors, or teachers
• A completed FAFSA for need-based awards
• A personal essay, riding resume, or video submission

Some scholarships are open to riders across disciplines, while others are discipline-specific. You may find awards geared toward hunt seat, reining, dressage, eventing, Western horsemanship, or students involved with a specific breed.

Before putting time into an application, always confirm the current requirements directly with the college, coach, or organization offering the award. Requirements can change from year to year, so check directly with each program.

What types of college equestrian scholarships are available?

There is not just one path to riding in college, and there is not just one kind of equestrian scholarship either.

Varsity athletic scholarships

These are the scholarships most riders think of first. They are typically offered by colleges with varsity equestrian teams and are tied to team participation.

Equine studies scholarships

These scholarships support students pursuing an education in equine-related fields such as equine science, equine business, animal science, or pre-vet studies. Riding experience may help, but competitive recruitment is not always required.

Breed and association scholarships

Many horse organizations support student members through annual scholarship programs. These can be a great option for riders who are involved in a specific discipline, breed association, or national organization.

Need-based and merit-based aid

Even if a school does not offer a true athletic equestrian scholarship, riders may still qualify for academic scholarships, grants, or institutional aid that can make a riding school more affordable.

What are NCAA and NCEA equestrian scholarships?

When riders talk about college horseback riding scholarships, they are often referring to varsity programs connected to the National Collegiate Equestrian Association, or NCEA.

NCEA oversees many of the top varsity equestrian teams in the country. These programs compete at a high level and can offer athletic scholarship aid to riders in hunt seat, reining, or both.

Equestrian has historically been recognized within the NCAA emerging sports structure for women, but in practical terms, many riders and families will be looking at NCEA programs when researching varsity scholarship opportunities.

These scholarships are usually awarded as equivalency scholarships, which means a program’s total scholarship budget can be split among multiple athletes. Because of that, full-ride equestrian scholarships are possible but relatively uncommon. Many riders receive partial athletic aid instead.

Depending on the school and the offer, scholarship support may go toward tuition, fees, room, board, books, or a combination of these expenses.

What other college riding programs exist?

Not every rider’s college path runs through a varsity team. There are several types of collegiate riding programs, and each creates different scholarship opportunities.

NCEA varsity teams

The National Collegiate Equestrian Association (NCEA) represents the highest level of “varsity” competition under NCAA guidelines. These programs are highly selective, offer the most robust athletic scholarships, and riders compete on horses provided by the host school.

NAIA equestrian programs

Similar to the NCEA, NAIA programs offer a varsity-style experience and athletic aid, but often within smaller, more personalized college environments. They are an excellent option for riders seeking a tight-knit team culture.

IHSA programs (Varsity & Club)

The Intercollegiate Horse Shows Association (IHSA) is the largest and most accessible organization in college riding. Like the NCEA, riders use school-provided horses, so ownership is not required. HSA teams can be Varsity-status (funded by the athletic department) or Club-status (student-led or recreational). While club-level IHSA teams rarely offer athletic scholarships, many schools provide institutional aid or grants for their riders.

Independent Club & Recreational Teams

Some colleges offer riding opportunities that sit outside of the major competitive associations. These are ideal for students who want to stay in the saddle and enjoy a team atmosphere without the rigorous travel or recruiting requirements of higher-level competition.

What colleges offer equestrian scholarships?

Scholarship availability changes over time, so riders should always confirm details directly with each school. That said, several colleges are well known for varsity equestrian or strong equine-related programs.

Colleges with varsity equestrian programs

Schools commonly recognized for varsity equestrian opportunities include:

• Auburn University
• Baylor University
• Delaware State University
• Fresno State
• University of Georgia
• University of South Carolina
• Southern Methodist University
• Oklahoma State University
• Texas A&M University
• Texas Christian University

These programs are known for competitive recruiting and scholarship opportunities tied to hunt seat, reining, or both.

Colleges with NAIA or other scholarship opportunities

Riders may also find equestrian scholarship opportunities at schools such as:

• Midway University
• William Woods University

These programs may combine riding opportunities with strong equine studies offerings, which can be especially appealing for students who want both competition and an equine-focused degree path.

Colleges with strong equine studies programs

Some schools are especially well known for equine academics, even if varsity scholarship opportunities differ from school to school. Riders often research programs such as:

• University of Kentucky
• University of Louisville
• Colorado State University

These institutions may offer academic, departmental, or equine-industry scholarships in addition to riding opportunities.

How much are equestrian scholarships worth?

Equestrian scholarship amounts vary widely depending on the school, scholarship type, and rider.

In general, awards may fall into ranges such as:

• Smaller outside scholarships in the $500 to $5,000 range
• Larger private or institutional awards up to $10,000 or more
• Partial athletic scholarships that cover a portion of tuition or living expenses
• Full scholarships that cover most or all educational costs, though these are less common

Because varsity equestrian often operates under an equivalency sport model, coaches often divide scholarship funding strategically across the roster. That means one rider may receive modest aid while another receives a more substantial package, depending on recruiting priorities and team needs.

The best way to understand real scholarship value is to speak directly with coaches, admissions offices, and scholarship coordinators at the schools you are considering.

What do college coaches look for in scholarship riders?

Strong riding matters, but it is rarely the only thing coaches evaluate.

Most coaches are looking at the full picture, including:

Riding ability

They want to see solid equitation, feel, balance, effectiveness, and consistency. For Western riders, that may include reining or horsemanship fundamentals. For English riders, it may mean strong flatwork, jumping position, and ring presence.

Competition background

Coaches often review how much you have shown, at what level, and how consistently you have performed. Regional and national experience can help, but so can a record of steady development and good horsemanship.

Academics

Your transcript still matters. Even if a coach is interested in you as a rider, you must be able to meet the school’s academic standards and admissions requirements.

Team fit

Coaches recruit for more than talent alone. They consider work ethic, coachability, attitude, and how a rider might fit the team culture and roster.

Video and presentation

A clear, polished riding video and organized resume can make a strong impression. This is often one of the first ways a coach evaluates a prospective rider.

It is also worth remembering that recruiting is shaped by roster needs. A strong rider may not receive an offer from one school simply because that team is already deep in that discipline or event.

What level rider gets recruited for college equestrian?

This is one of the biggest questions families have, and the answer depends on the type of program.

For top varsity programs, many recruited riders have strong competition records and experience showing at a high level in their discipline. Coaches are often looking for riders who can step into a competitive lineup and contribute quickly.

That said, not every college riding path requires the same profile. Riders with less national-level experience may still find opportunities through IHSA teams, smaller programs, equine studies schools, or outside scholarships tied to academics and industry involvement.

A rider does not need to be on a national championship track for college riding to be possible. The key is finding the right fit for your current level, goals, and academic interests.

When should riders start the equestrian scholarship process?

Earlier than many people think.

For most students, junior year of high school is the ideal time to start seriously researching colleges, building a riding resume, and contacting coaches. Some riders begin even earlier, especially if varsity recruiting is the goal.

A simple timeline looks like this:

Freshman and sophomore years

• Build competition experience
• Strengthen riding fundamentals
• Keep grades up
• Start learning which colleges have riding programs that fit your goals

Junior year

• Research scholarship options
• Create a riding resume
• Record quality video
• Reach out to coaches
• Attend clinics, camps, or showcases when possible

Senior year

• Submit applications
• Complete scholarship essays and forms
• Schedule visits or interviews
• Finalize college and aid decisions

Starting early gives riders more time to identify realistic opportunities and prepare a stronger application.

How do you apply for an equestrian scholarship?

A strong application process is organized, timely, and specific to the opportunities you are pursuing.

1. Research scholarships early

Create a spreadsheet with scholarship names, deadlines, requirements, links, and award amounts. Include varsity team opportunities, equine department awards, and outside scholarships from equestrian organizations.

2. Build a riding portfolio

Put together a riding resume that includes:

• Competition history
• Disciplines and divisions
• Trainers and barns
• Awards or notable results
• Leadership, volunteering, or horse-related involvement

You should also create a short, high-quality riding video that clearly showcases your skills. Depending on your discipline, this may include flatwork, over-fences rounds, horsemanship patterns, or reining work.

3. Gather academic materials

Many scholarships require transcripts, test scores if applicable, essays, and recommendation letters. Ask for references early so trainers and teachers have time to write thoughtful letters.

4. Contact coaches directly

If you are interested in riding for a college team, reach out to coaches with a concise email introducing yourself. Include your riding resume, video link, graduation year, and academic information.

5. Understand recruiting rules

If you are pursuing a varsity program, make sure you understand current recruiting and eligibility rules. These can change, so always review the latest guidance through the relevant eligibility channels and the school itself.

6. Submit everything before the deadline

Late applications are often not considered. Set reminders well ahead of each due date and leave time for essays, recommendations, and any required interviews.

Where do equestrian scholarships come from?

If you are building a scholarship search list, it helps to think in terms of two main buckets.

Colleges and universities

These include varsity athletic departments, equine studies programs, agricultural colleges, and institutional scholarship offices. Some are based on riding, some on academics, and some on financial need.

Outside organizations

These include breed associations, equestrian nonprofits, foundations, and industry groups. In many cases, these scholarships can be used at the school of your choice and stacked with other aid.

Riders who search both buckets usually find more opportunities than those who only focus on varsity team scholarships.

What outside equestrian scholarships are available?

Beyond college-awarded aid, there are many equestrian scholarships offered by organizations within the horse industry.

Examples riders may want to research include scholarships from:

• US Equestrian and related foundations
• American Quarter Horse Foundation
• EQUUS Foundation
• IHSA-affiliated scholarship opportunities
• The Dressage Foundation
• USEA
• NRHA
• Breed-specific scholarship programs

Availability, award size, and requirements can change from year to year, so it is worth checking each organization’s current scholarship page directly.

Check out The Farm House Excellence in Horsemanship Scholarship → 

How are equestrian scholarships different from other financial aid?

Equestrian scholarships are just one part of the college funding picture.

Here is how they differ from other common types of aid:

Athletic scholarships

Based on riding ability and team participation

Academic merit scholarships

Based on grades, test scores, and academic achievement

Need-based aid

Based on family financial circumstances and financial aid forms

Outside grants and scholarships

Based on criteria set by private organizations, foundations, or associations

In many cases, students can combine multiple forms of aid. A rider might receive an academic scholarship from the university, an outside equestrian award, and need-based support all in the same financial aid package.

Tips for improving your equestrian scholarship application

The riders who give themselves the best chance usually do a few things well and do them early.

Stay organized

Track deadlines, required materials, and contact information carefully. Missing a deadline can take you out of the running before your application is even reviewed.

Prioritize both grades and riding

Even athletic scholarships often depend on academic eligibility. Strong grades can also open up additional aid beyond riding-related awards.

Put real thought into your video

A coach or selection committee should be able to quickly understand your strengths. Keep the footage clear, relevant, and well edited.

Show commitment beyond the ring

Leadership, volunteer work, horse care, and involvement in the equestrian community can strengthen your application and help separate you from riders with similar competitive records.

Ask for strong recommendations

Choose trainers and teachers who know you well and can speak specifically about your work ethic, character, and growth.

Write a thoughtful essay

The best scholarship essays do more than say horses are your passion. They connect your riding experience to your goals, values, and future direction.

Farm House tip: start preparing before tryouts and visits

If college riding is on your radar, preparation goes beyond paperwork. Riders often spend time updating their show wardrobe, checking helmet fit, and making sure they feel polished and confident for clinics, campus visits, or tryout opportunities.

At The Farm House, supporting riders has always been part of our mission. That’s why we created The Farm House Excellence in Horsemanship Scholarship — to help dedicated riders continue their education while staying connected to the sport and community that shaped them.

If horses have been a defining part of your life and you’re planning the next step in your education, we encourage you to explore the scholarship and apply.

FAQs about equestrian scholarships

Do all colleges offer equestrian scholarships?

No. Equestrian scholarships are usually found at schools with varsity programs, equine studies departments, or through outside organizations. Many colleges offer riding opportunities without athletic scholarship funding.

Can you get a scholarship for horseback riding?

Yes. Riders may be able to earn scholarships through varsity equestrian teams, equine academic programs, breed associations, and horse industry organizations.

Can scholarship riders major in something other than equine studies?

Yes. Athletic equestrian scholarships are tied to your role on the team, not your academic major. Many college riders study fields completely outside the equine industry.

What if a college does not have a varsity riding team?

You may still be able to ride through IHSA or club programs, and you can still apply for outside equestrian scholarships that are not tied to varsity athletics.

How competitive are equestrian scholarships?

Some are highly competitive, especially at top varsity programs. Others may be more accessible, particularly academic or outside scholarships with narrower applicant pools.

Can you get a full-ride scholarship for horseback riding?

It is possible, but not common. Many equestrian scholarships are partial awards rather than full rides.

Are there equestrian scholarships for Western riders?

Yes. Western riders may find scholarship opportunities through reining programs, horsemanship-focused teams, breed associations, and Western-specific organizations.

Can you combine multiple horse scholarships?

In many cases, yes. Riders often combine academic aid, outside scholarships, and other financial support, but it is important to confirm the rules for each award.