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NCAA Rowing Divisions and Time Requirements | Athlete +

Updated: Dec 5, 2023

NCAA rowing is a prestigious sport that offers talented student-athletes the opportunity to compete at the collegiate level while pursuing their education. However, gaining admission to a college rowing program requires more than just passion and dedication; it also involves meeting specific time requirements. In this article, we’ll delve into the NCAA rowing divisions and the time standards associated with them, focusing on the 2k time and erg time that aspiring college rowers must meet.


NCAA Rowing Divisions


NCAA rowing is divided into three main divisions: Division I, Division II, and Division III. Each division has its own set of athletic scholarship opportunities and academic requirements. Understanding these divisions and their associated time standards is crucial for student-athletes aspiring to row at the collegiate level.




Division I Rowing

Division I rowing is highly competitive and offers the most athletic scholarships among the three divisions. To qualify for a Division I rowing program, student-athletes are expected to meet stringent athletic and academic standards. When it comes to the 2k time requirement, female rowers should aim for an impressive time of approximately 7 minutes or less, while male rowers should target 6:20 or better. In terms of erg time, female rowers should aim for a score of around 7 minutes or less for a 2,000-meter erg test, while male rowers should aim for 6:20 or better.

It’s important to note that these times are highly competitive, and some Division I programs may have slightly different standards. Additionally, a strong academic background is essential to be considered for a Division I rowing program.



Division II Rowing

Division II rowing programs are also competitive, but they typically offer fewer athletic scholarships than Division I. For Division II, female rowers should aim for a 2k time of approximately 7:30 or better, while male rowers should target 6:45 or better. In terms of erg time, female rowers should aim for a score of around 7:30 or better for a 2,000-meter erg test, while male rowers should aim for 6:45 or better.



Division III Rowing

Division III rowing programs do not offer athletic scholarships, but they provide a great opportunity for student-athletes to continue their rowing careers while focusing on academics. The time requirements for Division III are generally less strict compared to Division I and Division II. Female rowers aiming for Division III should target a 2k time of approximately 8 minutes or better, while male rowers should aim for 7:15 or better. In terms of erg time, female rowers should aim for a score of around 8 minutes or better for a 2,000-meter erg test, while male rowers should aim for 7:15 or better.




Division

Female 2K Time

Male 2K Time

Division I

7 minutes or less

6:20 or better

Division II

7:30 or better

6:45 or better

Division III

8 minutes or better

7:15 or better

Achieving the required 2k and erg times for NCAA rowing can be a challenging but rewarding endeavor. Here are some tips to help aspiring college rowers meet these standards:

  1. Start Early: Begin your training and preparation well in advance to give yourself ample time to improve your times.

  2. Seek Coaching: Consider working with experienced coaches who can provide personalized training plans and guidance to help you reach your goals.

  3. Consistency: Consistent training and dedication to your fitness regimen are essential for improving your times steadily.

  4. Cross-Training: Incorporate cross-training activities like weightlifting, yoga, and cardio workouts to enhance your overall fitness.

  5. Nutrition and Recovery: Pay attention to your diet and ensure you get adequate rest and recovery to maximize your performance.

  6. Mental Toughness: Develop mental resilience to push through challenges and stay focused on your goals.



NCAA rowing offers talented student-athletes a fantastic opportunity to pursue their passion for rowing while earning a college education. Meeting the 2k and erg time requirements for your desired division is a critical step in the recruitment process. By understanding the specific standards for each division and dedicating yourself to training and academic excellence, you can increase your chances of securing a spot on a college rowing team. Rowing at the collegiate level is not just about speed on the water but also about discipline, teamwork, and personal growth, making it a truly rewarding experience for those who aspire to take the plunge into this competitive and prestigious sport.





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