You must be certified by the NCAA in order to play in Division I or II, and this is the process you must follow. There is a minor registration charge, but if your family cannot afford it, you can have it waived. If you think you might play in Division III or are unsure which level to participate at, you can still establish a profile page on the website. 2. Get Good Scores On The SAT And ACT In addition to having a certification application, you will also need to take the SAT or ACT. These tests measure your understanding of algebra, geometry, reading comprehension, and math problem solving. You should start taking them when you are in 9th grade for the SAT and 10th grade for the ACT. Score well enough on these exams and you could get a free ride through the NCAA Division I football recruiting process. Other factors that could affect how many scholarships you receive include the number of players from your school who go on to play Division I football, whether you're a freshman or senior, and what position you play. A coach needs to know that you can contribute immediately to his team, so try not to rush into deciding which schools are offering you scholarships. Take your time and only accept those programs that are right for you. The more information that you provide about yourself when you apply, the better. Include details such as your height, weight, hometown, ethnicity, academic record, extracurricular activities, and anything else that might help coaches make an informed decision about you.