Soccer Scholarships. Your College Pathway.
Get recruited. Find the right fit. Keep playing.
There are thousands of college soccer programs across the United States. The challenge is knowing which ones fit you and how to get their coaches' attention.
There are more opportunities than you might think.
Soccer offers college athletes opportunities across NCAA, NAIA and junior college programs. Whether your goal is Division I or finding the right fit at another level, there are real pathways to continue your career while earning a college degree.
The key is understanding how the recruiting process works and positioning yourself in front of the right college coaches early.
Talent gets you noticed. Your recruitment gets you there.
Getting recruited for soccer is about exposure, consistency and being proactive. College coaches evaluate players through competition, showcases, profiles and direct communication.
Play At A High Level
Compete at the highest level available to you and continue developing your technical and tactical ability.
Build Your Highlight Video
Show real match situations, decision-making, technical ability and consistency.
Build Your Recruiting Profile
Include your position, graduation year, academics, statistics, video and relevant achievements.
Contact College Coaches
Reach out directly to programs that fit your level and personalize your communication.
Stay Proactive
Follow up consistently, track conversations and keep your recruitment moving forward.
How soccer scholarships work.
College soccer is generally an equivalency sport, meaning athletic aid can be divided among multiple athletes. A scholarship does not necessarily mean a full ride. The amount of athletic aid available depends on the school, division and applicable rules.
| Level | Scholarship Structure | What Athletes Should Know |
|---|---|---|
| NCAA Division I | Equivalency | Athletic aid can be divided among athletes. |
| NCAA Division II | Equivalency | Programs can distribute athletic aid across their roster. |
| NCAA Division III | No Athletic Scholarships | Academic and need-based financial aid may still be available. |
| NAIA | Equivalency | Scholarship opportunities vary by institution and program. |
| JUCO / NJCAA | Full & Partial Opportunities | Junior college can provide another pathway to college soccer. |
More than just highlights.
Don't wait until senior year.
Don't wait to be discovered.
Proactive communication is one of the most important parts of the recruiting process. Your outreach should make it easy for a coach to understand who you are and evaluate you.
Find The Right Programs
Focus on schools that match your athletic, academic and personal goals.
Send A Strong Introduction
Explain who you are, your position, graduation year, academics and why you're interested.
Include Your Video
Give coaches a quick way to evaluate your playing ability through relevant match footage.
Stay Consistent
A single email rarely creates a recruitment. Follow up professionally and keep coaches updated.
Find the right level, not just the highest level.
The best fit isn't always the biggest name.
The right college should balance your athletic level, academics, playing-time potential, financial situation, location, campus environment and long-term goals.
Don't manage your recruitment alone.
Common questions about college soccer recruiting.
Understanding the process is the first step toward taking control of your recruitment.
How do I get a soccer scholarship?
Start by building a strong recruiting profile, developing your playing ability, creating quality video, identifying suitable programs and proactively contacting college coaches.
Are soccer scholarships full scholarships?
Not necessarily. Soccer is generally an equivalency sport, so athletic aid can be divided among multiple athletes. Many athletes also combine athletic aid with academic scholarships and other financial assistance.
Can international students get soccer scholarships?
Yes. International athletes can compete at U.S. colleges, subject to the applicable academic, athletics and eligibility requirements. International athletes should begin the eligibility process early.
When should I start soccer recruiting?
Earlier is generally better. Starting during freshman or sophomore year gives you more time to build your profile, improve your academics, identify programs and develop relationships with coaches.
What do college soccer coaches look for?
Coaches evaluate technical ability, game intelligence, physical traits, consistency, attitude, coachability, academics and overall fit with their program.
Do I have to play Division I soccer?
No. NCAA Division II, Division III, NAIA and junior college programs can all provide opportunities to continue playing soccer while earning a college degree.
Ready to start your soccer recruitment?
Build your recruiting profile, connect with college coaches and take a more proactive approach to finding your college soccer opportunity.
Start Your Recruitment →