The NAIA is one of the most overlooked pathways in college athletics. Despite being established in the 1940s, many swimmers and families remain unfamiliar with what the NAIA is—or even what the acronym stands for. The NAIA, or National Association of Intercollegiate Athletics, is a governing body separate from the NCAA that allows student-athletes to compete collegiately while earning a degree with the opportunity to receive athletic and academic scholarships. NAIA swimming is represented by approximately thirty-five universities that sponsor swimming and diving programs.
Who Makes Up the NAIA?
The NAIA is composed of more than 250 member institutions across the United States, organized into 20 conferences.
According to the NAIA, member schools average approximately 2,000 undergraduate students, with roughly 385 student-athletes per institution. About 82% of NAIA schools are private, and approximately 65% are faith-based. Additionally, 23 of the nation’s 107 Historically Black Colleges and Universities (HBCUs) compete within the NAIA.
The association places a strong emphasis on academics, stating on its website:
“We take the student portion of student-athlete very seriously.”
Why NAIA Swimming is Often Overlooked
The general consensus is that NAIA swimming programs receive limited exposure among club swimmers, resulting in many schools flying under the radar for prospective athletes.
In conversations with NAIA head coach Mandi Bell of Brenau University and Rob Zamorano of SCAD, a consistent theme emerges: many athletes approach recruiting with a “Division I or bust” mindset.
By focusing exclusively on NCAA Division I programs, some swimmers unintentionally limit their options. In some cases, this limits options so significantly that athletes miss the opportunity to compete in college altogether. This is often not due to a lack of talent, but rather a lack of awareness about alternative collegiate pathways.
Academics and School Fit
Because NAIA schools are often smaller than large state universities, they appeal to students who prefer smaller class sizes, close faculty relationships, or specialized academic programs. Many schools are private universities offering tailored curricula. SCAD, for example, is an art and design-focused institution that attracts a very specific type of student. While this environment may not suit every student, it can be an ideal fit for those pursuing fields such as architecture, advertising, graphic design, fashion, and more.
If high school athletes already have a specific major in mind, it’s important to research majors offered before reaching out to coaches.
NAIA Swimming Recruiting
One of the most significant differences between the NAIA and the NCAA is the recruiting regulations.
The NAIA does not impose restrictions on recruiting calendars. As a result, prospective student-athletes are allowed to communicate directly with NAIA coaches at any time.
Both Bell and Zamorano also noted the strong emphasis on recruiting international athletes, making it an attractive option for students seeking to earn a degree in the United States while competing at a high level.
What Types of Swimmers Thrive in NAIA Programs?
In conversations with Bell and Zamorano, a clear pattern emerged: athletes who enjoy the process, show up consistently, and genuinely love the sport tend to thrive in NAIA programs.
Bell also highlighted her program’s academic expectations. Brenau Swimming is currently aiming for a cumulative team GPA above 3.9. While academics are a priority, performance in the pool remains essential. Athletes may also have more flexibility to participate in social clubs and Greek life. These opportunities are far less common at top NCAA programs. Bell noted that the NAIA often allows for a strong balance between athletics, academics, and campus life.
When speaking on the types of athletes that have come through her program, Bell shared:
“I’ve seen swimmers of so many different levels compete in the NAIA and have a great experience.”
Scholarships and Affordability
Many families are surprised to learn that the NAIA allows athletes to stack multiple forms of financial aid. At many NAIA schools, swimmers may combine athletic scholarships, academic scholarships, and even state-based tuition assistance.
In some cases, this makes the total cost of attendance at an NAIA institution lower than that of larger in-state universities. According to the NAIA, student-athletes spend an average of 22% less than their NCAA counterparts.
Training Demands and Balance
At many NAIA swimming programs, athletes typically train between 14 and 17 hours per week in the pool, along with an additional three to four hours of strength training.
In comparison, NCAA Division I programs often require more than 18 hours per week in the water, with four to five hours of weight training.
NAIA athletic schedules may also provide greater flexibility during the off-season. Zamorano noted that many of his athletes participate in internships during the spring and summer months, when practice requirements are reduced.
Although athletes are expected to compete in two meets over the summer, this differs from some NCAA programs, where swimmers continue structured training throughout the off-season and compete in regular meets.
Final Takeaway
For swimmers seeking a specific major, a smaller campus environment, and the ability to compete collegiately, NAIA swimming programs deserve serious consideration.
Understanding the NAIA early in the recruiting process can significantly expand an athlete’s opportunities—and prevent them from narrowing their options before fully understanding what college athletics can offer.
