Want to discuss your goals and see if you could be a great fit for our coaching?

The Different Devisions: D1, D2, D3 & Lightweight Rowing Programs

Rowing is a unique sport that attracts athletes to colleges across the U.S., offering opportunities for competition at various levels. Whether you're looking at Division 1 programs, the more intimate but competitive atmosphere of Division 2 and 3, or the specialized lightweight rowing category, there's a program that fits each athlete's ambitions and skill level. There are over 142 colleges that compete for the various women’s rowing titles across the U.S. In this guide, we’ll break down the differences between these divisions and provide a list of the top rowing colleges to help athletes and parents navigate their options.

Understanding the different Divisions in Rowing

Division 1 (D1) Rowing: 89 colleges

• Competitive Level:
  D1 rowing is the highest level of collegiate rowing in the U.S., featuring the most competitive programs. Athletes at this level are typically recruited based on high performance at junior levels and often aspire to compete internationally.

• Scholarship Availability:
  Full or partial athletic scholarships are common in D1, though availability varies by school. Programs are funded well, with extensive support in terms of coaching, equipment, and facilities.

• Commitment:
  Being part of a D1 team requires a significant time commitment, both in training and travel for races like the Intercollegiate Rowing Association (IRA) National Championships and NCAA Championships.

According to the 2024 NCAA results the top 20 rowing colleges are:

1. University of Texas

2. Stanford University

3. University of Tennessee

4. Princeton University

5. University of Washington

6. Brown University

7. Michigan University

8. Yale University

9. UC Berkeley, Cal

10. University of Pennsylvania

11. Syracuse University

12. Ohio State

13. University of Virginia

14. Rutgers University

15. Indiana University

16. Duke University

17. Notre Dame

18. Northeastern University

19. Boston University

20. Oregon State

Read our other blogs from different universities

Division 2 (D2) Rowing: 11 Colleges

• Competitive Level:
  D2 rowing programs are still highly competitive but typically don't have the same depth or resources as D1 programs. However, many D2 schools offer strong competition and excellent development opportunities.

• Scholarships:
  Scholarships are available but generally less common and substantial compared to D1. Programs have smaller budgets, but they still offer high-quality coaching and facilities.

• Commitment:
  Time commitments in D2 are slightly less intense than D1, though athletes are still expected to maintain a high level of dedication to the sport.

Division 3 (D3) Rowing: 34 Colleges

• Competitive Level:
  D3 rowing is less intense and more focused on a balance between athletics, academics, and extracurricular activities. Programs in D3 are still competitive, but there is more flexibility compared to D1 and D2.

• Scholarships:
  D3 schools do not offer athletic scholarships. However, they often provide academic or need-based financial aid.

• Commitment:
  D3 rowing allows athletes to continue competing at a high level while focusing on academics and other college experiences. While the training load is lighter than in D1 and D2, it's still demanding.

Lightweight Rowing: 8 Colleges

• Category Specifics:
  Lightweight rowing differs from traditional "open-weight" categories, with specific weight limits (men ≤160 lbs, women ≤130 lbs) set for athletes. Lightweight programs can be part of D1 schools but often function as separate squads within those programs.

• Scholarships:
  Scholarship availability depends on whether the lightweight program is part of a D1 school.

• Commitment:
  Lightweight rowing teams often travel and compete in major regattas like the IRA Championships, offering elite-level competition despite smaller squad sizes.

Full List of Colleges:

Division 1

Lightweight Colleges

Division 2

Division 3

Final Thoughts on Choosing the Right Program

Selecting the right rowing program is a personal decision based on many factors, including athletic goals, academic interests, and the campus experience you’re looking for. Whether you're aiming for a competitive D1 program, the balanced atmosphere of D2 or D3, or focusing on lightweight rowing, there’s a college that will fit your needs and aspirations.

It's essential to visit campuses, talk to coaches, and consider how each school aligns with your academic and athletic goals. We hope this guide helps you get started on your journey to finding the best rowing program for you.

Next Steps