The primary criteria for securing a high school sports scholarship in the United States are academic performance, specifically the student's grade point average (GPA) and standardized test scores such as the SAT or ACT. The National Collegiate Athletic Association (NCAA) and the National Association of Intercollegiate Athletics (NAIA) have established minimum requirements for these metrics. For the NCAA, a GPA of 2.0 is typically the minimum threshold, while the SAT/ACT scores vary by division. For Division I and II, a composite score of 1020 on the SAT or a 20 on the ACT is generally required. The NAIA has similar requirements, with a GPA of 2.0 and a composite score of 950 on the SAT or a 20 on the ACT for Division I and II schools. These requirements are in place to ensure that student-athletes are academically prepared for the rigors of college coursework.

The emphasis on academic performance is rooted in the belief that student-athletes should be well-rounded individuals who excel both on and off the field. Data from the NCAA indicates that the average GPA for student-athletes is higher than the general student body, with Division I student-athletes averaging a GPA of 3.06. This suggests that the academic requirements for scholarships are effective in attracting and retaining academically strong candidates. Additionally, the standardized test scores are a measure of a student's readiness for college-level work, which is crucial for the success of student-athletes in the academic and athletic realms. The SAT/ACT scores also serve as a common benchmark across different high schools and states, ensuring fairness in the selection process.