Selection is based on intercollegiate competition during the period of March through February. Honorable Mention awards are given to Runners-Up, five men and five women. Academic All-Americans are also recognized at this time. All students meeting these requirements receive an Academic All-American certificate. The Collegiate Top Ten is used to report and reward both team and individual high scores nation-wide.
Recognition is given for high team series, team game, individual series and individual game.
The National Collegiate Bowling Poll is produced four times a year by the Bowling Writers of America and the National Collegiate Bowling Coaches' Association. The poll recognizes the top 20 men's and women's intercollegiate bowling teams in the nation. Teams are ranked by a selected panel of bowling writers and collegiate coaches. Decisions are based on tournament and conference standings for the reporting period.