Rifle is one of the rare disciplines where the best scholarship opportunities may be found outside of your college. People who are marksman, or sharpshooters, are skilled in precision shooting, typically using projectile weapons such as a rifle. As rifling grows in popularity, state-wide and local groups are looking to promote the sport more. While some of organizations can get political on the issue of gun laws, others are more focused on keeping competitive rifling alive. It may be a plus to be a member of one of these organizations, as some may require a membership in order to receive scholarships. One that doesn't require membership is The Civilian Marksmanship Program, which awards a $1,000 scholarship to students who can demonstrate rifle or pistol marksmanship competition or experience. It also requires that you compete in competitions, and you can make yourself stand out.
Many outside organizations also award scholarships based on criteria outside of your marksmanship abilities. If you're good at the sport but don’t necessarily want to compete in the sport on the college level, look at scholarships from rifle groups that reward you for other criteria, such as academic achievement or community service. Some groups also consider your financial need. Those interested in pursuing marksmanship on the college level, however, should be aware that college-based awards will require a minimum GPA for you to get on a team and receive an award. There are over 300 colleges and universities in the United States that offer shooting programs. At the collegiate level, there are high-level competitions for skilled shooters, such as the Pistol and Rifle Club Sectionals, as well as the NRA Intercollegiate Championships.The NCAA, while usually more competitive than awards doled by outside groups and organizations, also rewards athletes on the postgraduate level.
