The NCAA uses a combination of GPA and ACT or SAT scores in the form of a sliding scale to determine student-athletes eligibility for financial aid in college sports - the higher the GPA score is, the lower the ACT or SAT scores required to match it, and vice versa. This sliding scale is actually a table that sets the ACT or SAT score required to match each GPT score. The sliding scale changes every year so you should check the scale regularly to determine your eligibility. Since relying on the sliding scale could limit the amount of aid you receive and even bar you from competitive play, it’s best to aim for the highest score to ensure you rely on the sliding scale as little as possible.