There are many opportunities for athletic participation in college.  Each level of competition has a governing body that oversees eligibility, rules, etc.  Most people are familiar with the NCAA.  The NCAA regulates three divisions:  division I, division II and division III.  Each of these divisions have different eligibility guidelines.  Only NCAA division I and II competition offer athletic scholarships.  Students that anticipate participation in intercollegiate sports at the division I or II level must complete an NCAA Clearinghouse form.  Also, the student must take the ACT on a national test date and this does not include the Illinois mandated ACT portion of the Prairie State Achievement Exam.  NCAA eligibility information and the NCAA Clearinghouse can be found at the NCAA link below.

The National Junior College Athletic Association has their own set of guidelines for each of their divisions.  Information about eligibility can be found at the NJCAA link below.

Another association that you don't here too much about is the National Association of Intercollegiate Athletics.  Click the NAIA link to learn more about them and to see a listing of member schools.