Southern Illinois University-Edwardsville Athletics

Southern Illinois University-Edwardsville competes in NCAA Division I, meaning the Cougars offer athletic scholarships and face serious competition against major programs. The school awarded $2.96 million in athletic scholarships across 12 varsity sports. Just 3% of the 8,836 students compete as Division I athletes, making the athletic program selective despite the university's 97.51% acceptance rate. SIUE joined the Ohio Valley Conference in 2012 after transitioning from Division II. The men's soccer program has built the strongest reputation, reaching the NCAA tournament multiple times since moving to Division I. Women's basketball and baseball also compete at high levels within the OVC. The relatively new Division I status means SIUE is still developing major rivalries and building its sports culture compared to more established programs.