Partial scholarships are allowed in headcount sports...but it doesn't matter if a student gets 10% or 100%, it counts as 1 scholarship against the limit (thus the term "headcount")...so while they're allowed, you're not likely to see them...I suppose the only reason would be if an AD was truly cash strapped

In equivalency sports, it's more likely need-based aid that gives the well-endowed schools the advantage as opposed to merit-based aid. Sometimes it's the kid with excellent grades getting non-athletic money, but likely more often it's the kid with financial need.