I think it’s safe to assume that for most people, their first encounter with Cheerleading is through Hollywood movies. Then, of course, most of us have seen those high school or college flicks where the cheerleading teams pump up their respective sports teams.

However, what might seem like students in flashy outfits performing orchestrated dance moves and tricks, is actually much bigger than that. While there is no denying that Cheerleading is an art form, it is also considered a legitimate sport in the US.

Much like football and basketball, students can apply for cheerleading scholarships in some of the best colleges in America. Currently, there are 200+ colleges across the US offering cheerleading programs. So, if you are athletic and want to pursue Cheerleading in College, it would be best to know which teams are at the top.

What are NCAA Divisions, and What do they mean for Cheerleading?

Before we jump into the top cheerleading teams, there are a few things you must know. First, the National Collegiate Athletic Association, or NCAA, is a nonprofit organization that regulates student athletics across North America.

A college member of the NCAA will fall under one of three divisions as determined by NCAA. Division I is the most competitive, and Division I schools tend to have enormous budgets. This is probably why Division I colleges give out most sports scholarships.

Division II and III are somewhat less competitive, and these schools don’t usually give out sports scholarships. Hence, if you are looking to score a cheerleading scholarship, you will have to look at cheerleading programs offered by Division I colleges.

Best Division I Cheerleading Teams

University of Kentucky Cheerleading Squad

Time and time again, the University of Kentucky’s cheerleading squad comes to the top of the NCAA Cheerleading National Championship. This championship is a big deal, with teams from all over the world competing to win the title. UOK has the most titles under its belt, with 25 total wins. No matter who you ask, UOK is the undisputed cheerleading college in the US. If you are serious about Cheerleading in Division I, there is no better college than UOK.

University of Minnesota Spirit Squad

Known as the Spirit squad, UOM is famous for its ultra-competitive and highly disciplined cheerleading team. UOM was the first ever US college to have a formal cheerleading program. This is why it is considered the birthplace of Cheerleading. Like UOK, UOM is also a Division I college and is quite famous for its cheerleading scholarships. You’d be lucky to get in as it’s too competitive.

University of Alabama 

UOA is consistently ranked amongst the best colleges for cheerleading programs. The college has two cheerleading teams – an all-girl and a coed team. Both teams compete each year, in January, at UCA college nationals. Their training regimen is pretty strict.

Best Division II cheerleading teams

If you want to be involved in academics without dedicating your whole time to Cheerleading, a division II school will be the best choice. The competition at this level is manageable, and the training regimen allows for academics, which is usually not the case with Division I schools.

Blinn State College – The Buccaneers

Blinn state was founded in 1883 and is one of the most well-known community colleges in the US. Their cheerleading team is called the Buccaneers, and they have competed in different championships nationwide, most notably, the NCA competition.

But, more importantly, Blinn’s approach to Cheerleading is holistic, where they want their athletes to be academically and athletically well-rounded. So, if you want a cheerleading program that also focuses on academics, you must look here.

The College of New Jersey – The Lions

Known as the Lions, TCNJ’s cheerleading team has a long list of wins going back decades. Situated in the city of Ewing, TCNJ has an all-girl competitive cheerleading team. The lions are well known for their tumbling and dance prowess and have competed all over the country. Of course, like any division II school, you will have ample time to focus on your studies alongside your cheerleading activities.

Drury University – The Panthers

The Panthers are a formidable cheerleading team representing the Drury University of Missouri. Over the years, the team has won several national championships and has competed all over the country. DU’s cheer program is regarded as one of the best among division II schools. The university is known for instilling teamwork and discipline in its athletes while also focusing on academics.

Best Division III cheerleading teams

Like Division II schools, Division III has a somewhat relaxed athletic atmosphere. However, this is not to say that you won’t have to work or do your best to keep up. Unlike Division I, you will get to pursue a degree and a cheerleading degree.

Elmira College – The Soaring Eagles

Elmira College, located in NY, is a liberal arts college. Its cheerleading team is called Soaring Eagles, and they have two teams. One is an all-girls team, while the other one is coed. Both teams have competed in the national circuit and won their fair share of the competitions.

SUNY Cortland – Red Dragons

SUNY Cortland is located in NY and is famous for its cheer team, the Red Dragons. The public university has one of the best division III cheerleading teams and is known all over the country. Moreover, SUNY Cortland is one of the few schools in America to offer a competitive and non-competitive cheerleading team. So, if you like cheering more as a hobby and want to pursue a degree, the non-competitive route might be the best for you.