Which type of financial aid may be reduced if the student-athlete voluntarily withdraws from the sport?

Athletic-based aid is often contingent upon the student-athlete's participation in their sport. This type of financial support is typically provided by the college or university as a means to recruit talent for their athletic programs. If a student-athlete voluntarily decides to withdraw from their sport, the institution may reassess the financial aid package, as the scholarship is specifically tied to the athlete's commitment to participate.

In contrast, merit-based aid is awarded based on academic achievements and talents unrelated to athletics, and need-based aid is determined by the financial circumstances of the student and their family. Hence, these forms of aid are not directly impacted by a student's decision to stop competing in their sport. The key aspect of athletic-based aid is its direct correlation to participation in athletics, making it the type most likely to be reduced or revoked if the student-athlete withdraws.