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Men's Soccer: Ultimate Recruiting Playbook
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Fulfilling the Dream of Playing College Soccer
The path to college soccer often begins long before the recruitment process officially starts. That's why it's so important to gather the right information and choose the perfect college soccer program. To help, we've put together this comprehensive guide to assist athletes in finding the ideal fit.
From participating in club tournaments to utilizing top college recruiting websites, this guide breaks down key areas to assist student-athletes throughout their recruitment journey. Typically, the soccer recruiting process intensifies during 10th grade. In fact, according to a survey of college coaches, 74% of Division 1 men's soccer coaches start evaluating players in 10th grade, and another 22% begin in 11th grade. That’s why gaining club experience and competing in tournaments at a young age is crucial for student-athletes aiming to navigate the recruitment process successfully. Understanding what college programs seek in players will give them an edge.
Readers should also refer to our broader College Recruiting Guide, which details the recruitment process from start to Signing Day.
Learn About NCAA Recruiting Rules and Calendar for College Men’s Soccer
NCAA regulations prevent Division 1 coaches from actively recruiting men's soccer players before their junior year. However, many athletes commit to college programs earlier. How is this possible? By understanding both the official and unofficial guidelines for men’s soccer recruitment, players can get a clearer picture of how the process works.
Familiarize yourself with the NCAA men's soccer recruiting rules and calendar to stay informed.
Compare Yourself to Other Players Using Men's Soccer Recruiting Benchmarks
To create an effective recruitment strategy, it's important for players to evaluate their own abilities accurately. Knowing what coaches seek in players helps recruits build a list of potential schools that fit their qualifications and athletic level. Competing in programs like the U.S. Development Academy, Elite Clubs National League, or the Olympic Development Program provides recruits the chance to face top talent. Comparing their own physical traits and skill sets with current college players is another great way to assess where they stand. We’ve put together guidelines that will help athletes identify the right level of competition for them.
Explore our men's soccer recruiting benchmarks to find your ideal division.
Learn the Basics of Men’s Soccer Scholarships
Athletic scholarships are available at the Division 1, Division 2, NAIA, and junior college levels. However, the amount of scholarship money varies depending on the division. Coaches have the option to offer full or partial scholarships. In this section, we’ll explain how scholarships are distributed, along with how athletes in Division 3 can find financial aid
See how much soccer scholarship funding you could qualify for.
How to Get Noticed by College Soccer Coaches
Speed, technical ability, and a strong club soccer background are all qualities that college coaches look for. However, recruits must take an active role in making sure coaches are aware of them. In this section, we break down the steps to a proactive recruitment process, including identifying the right schools, reaching out to coaches, and building relationships with soccer programs that are a good match.
International Soccer Scholarships for College Athletes
Approximately 21% of men's soccer players at the Division 1 and Division 2 levels in the U.S. come from international backgrounds. While soccer programs are open to recruiting international players, the process is more complex for athletes outside of the U.S. This section covers important details for international players, including academic qualifications and how to connect with coaches.
Learn more about U.S. soccer scholarships for international athletes.
Create a Standout Recruiting Video
Although college soccer coaches prefer to watch prospects play live, most use highlight videos as part of their evaluations. Our expert team of former college coaches offers tips on creating an outstanding recruiting video, from what footage to include to how to film during games.
Attend Soccer Tournaments, ID Camps, and Clinics
Tournaments are one of the top ways Division 1 coaches evaluate talent, followed by ID camps and clinics. Competing against other high-level athletes provides valuable exposure, and these events offer recruits a chance to be seen by numerous coaches over a short period. We’ll help athletes find the right tournaments and camps for their recruitment process.
Find Soccer Colleges in All Divisions
With over 1,400 college men’s soccer programs across the U.S., it can be challenging for athletes to narrow down their options. In this section, we outline the differences between Division 1, 2, 3, NAIA, and junior colleges, helping athletes find their best fit.
Learn more about the differences between college soccer divisions.
Best Men’s Soccer Recruiting Websites
While this guide offers a detailed overview of the recruiting process, several external websites provide additional insights. Platforms like Got Soccer, Top Drawer Soccer, and US Youth Soccer offer resources on tournament rankings and recruiting news, providing players with useful tools as they navigate the process.
NCAA Men’s Soccer Recruiting Rules and Calendar
Best Men’s Soccer Recruiting Websites
While this guide offers a detailed overview of the recruiting process, several external websites provide additional insights. Platforms like Got Soccer, Top Drawer Soccer, and US Youth Soccer offer resources on tournament rankings and recruiting news, providing players with useful tools as they navigate the process.
NCAA Men’s Soccer Recruiting Rules and Calendar
When can men's soccer coaches reach out to recruits? In most cases, nearly all forms of communication—such as verbal offers, emails, calls, texts, and recruiting letters—are permitted starting June 15 following an athlete’s sophomore year. However, some divisions allow coaches to initiate contact earlier. This section provides a detailed breakdown of the NCAA and NAIA soccer recruiting rules and calendars.
Understanding NCAA Soccer Recruiting Rules
The NCAA has established guidelines for when and how college coaches can engage with potential recruits to help manage early recruiting practices. However, both athletes and coaches often find ways to make contact before the official NCAA timeline. For instance, a survey of Division I men’s soccer coaches found that 74% reported starting talent evaluations as early as 10th grade. Athletes aiming to play Division I soccer should begin their recruiting process early, ideally by reaching out to coaches during or before their sophomore year.
Pro Tip: Although Division I and II coaches cannot directly communicate with student-athletes via email, phone, or text until June 15 following the athlete’s sophomore year, coaches begin evaluating prospects much earlier. While direct contact is restricted, coaches may review a student-athlete’s video and academic records and even contact their club or high school coaches to express interest. Coaches don’t wait until June 15 to start their evaluations, so ensure your profile is always updated with recent videos and transcripts.
The Significance of June 15 in Soccer Recruiting
For NCAA Division I and II soccer recruits, coaches cannot initiate contact until after June 15 of the athlete’s sophomore year. However, recruits shouldn’t wait for this date to start the process. Former NCAA and NAIA coaches Lindsey Boldt and Luis Cortell emphasize the importance of being proactive before and during the contact period that begins on June 15.
How Coaches Engage Soccer Recruits Before NCAA Contact Rules Allow
Before June 15 of an athlete’s sophomore year, there’s no direct off-campus communication allowed between a coach and a recruit. However, college coaches often work through a player’s club or high school coach to relay information. While these discussions are limited, they allow coaches to express interest in a player without engaging in direct recruiting conversations. Additionally, coaches may evaluate potential recruits at camps and clinics, even though recruiting conversations are prohibited until after June 15.
Complying with NCAA Soccer Recruiting Rules and Calendar
The NCAA men's soccer recruiting rules and the 2024–25 recruiting calendar are vital for keeping families on track during the recruiting process. The rules detail what types of communication student-athletes can expect based on their high school year, while the calendar outlines specific recruiting periods that regulate how coaches communicate with athletes throughout the year.
It's important to remember that complying with NCAA soccer recruiting rules is the responsibility of the coaches, not the athletes. While athletes don't need to memorize these dates, staying informed about the recruiting process is helpful. For more details, refer to the NCAA’s Guide for the College-Bound Student-Athlete.
Division I NCAA Men’s Soccer Recruiting Rules
The NCAA sets specific periods throughout the year that govern how coaches can recruit athletes. While it is the coach’s responsibility to follow these rules, families should understand the calendar to avoid planning campus visits during dead periods, when in-person contact is not allowed.
These rules specify when coaches can engage in certain types of communication with athletes, based on the athlete’s high school year:
-June 15 after sophomore year: Coaches can extend verbal offers and communicate via text, email, calls, and social media. Recruiting materials and private electronic messages are allowed. Coaches can also initiate conversations during camps and clinics.
-August 1 before junior year: Athletes can start taking official and unofficial campus visits, and coaches can conduct off-campus visits at an athlete’s home or school
Division II NCAA Men’s Soccer Recruiting Rules
NCAA Division II men’s soccer recruiting rules are more flexible than Division I, with most communication starting in the athlete’s junior year:
-Any time: Athletes may receive camp brochures, questionnaires, NCAA materials, and non-athletic publications.
-June 15 after sophomore year: Coaches can start calling and sending emails or texts to athletes. Off-campus communication and official visits are also permitted.
Division III NCAA Men’s Soccer Recruiting Rules
Division III schools have the most lenient recruiting rules:
-Recruiting materials: Athletes may receive recruiting materials at any time.
-Phone calls: Coaches can call athletes at any time.
-Off-campus contact: Coaches may initiate off-campus communication after an athlete’s sophomore year.
-Official visits: Official visits can begin after January 1 of an athlete’s junior year.
NAIA Men’s Soccer Recruiting Rules
NAIA recruiting rules are more relaxed than the NCAA’s. Coaches can contact athletes at any time during high school. NAIA recruiting typically starts later than NCAA Division I, aligning more closely with Division II timelines. NAIA coaches often wait to see which athletes just miss the cut for Division I programs and focus on ensuring a good fit academically, socially, and athletically.
2024–2025 NCAA Men’s Soccer Recruiting Calendar
The NCAA sets specific periods throughout the year that govern how coaches can recruit athletes. While it is the coach’s responsibility to follow these rules, families should understand the calendar to avoid planning campus visits during dead periods, when in-person contact is not allowed.
Division I Men’s Soccer Recruiting Calendar
-Dead periods: During dead periods, coaches cannot have any in-person contact with recruits or their families. However, communication via phone, email, or social media is still permitted.
Key dead periods for 2024 include:
-November 11–14, 2024: (Initial signing week of the National Letter of Intent)
-December 13–16, 2024: (NCAA Division I Men’s Soccer Championship)
Contact periods: Outside of dead periods, coaches can freely communicate with athletes through any NCAA-approved method starting June 15 after their sophomore year.
Division II Men’s Soccer Recruiting Calendar
Starting June 15 after a prospect’s sophomore year, all periods are treated as contact periods, except for the dead period from:
-November 11–13, 2024: (48 hours before the signing of the National Letter of Intent)
Division III Men’s Soccer Recruiting Calendar
Division III recruiting has no dead periods, meaning the contact period is open year-round.
Soccer scholarships are offered at NCAA Division 1 and Division 2 schools, as well as NAIA institutions and junior colleges. Understanding how these scholarships are awarded and what’s required to earn one is crucial. This guide provides a detailed overview of scholarship limits for each division and tips on how to increase your chances of receiving a scholarship offer.
New NCAA Soccer Scholarship Limits
Beginning with the 2025-2026 academic year, the NCAA plans to lift scholarship limits for D1 sports, pending approval of a proposed settlement. This will allow schools more flexibility in distributing scholarships among athletes, significantly influencing college soccer recruiting. Here's what these changes mean for men's soccer recruits:
D1 men’s soccer programs will be able to offer up to 28 scholarships, a notable increase from the current limit of 9.9.
Teams will also have a maximum roster size of 28 players.
D1 soccer remains an equivalency sport, meaning programs can continue offering both full and partial scholarships.
Men’s Soccer Scholarships by Division Level
Across the major divisions, over 1,200 colleges offer men’s soccer programs. Here's a breakdown of the scholarship opportunities available at each level, along with the proposed changes for 2025-2026:
| Division Level | Number of Schools | Average Roster Size | Current Scholarship Limit | 2025-26 Scholarship Limit* | 2025-26 Roster Limit* | Scholarship Type |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| D1 | 203 | 32.5 | 9.9 | 28 | 28 | Equivalency |
| D2 | 206 | 37.4 | 9 | 9 | N/A | Equivalency |
| D3 | 409 | 32.3 | N/A | N/A | N/A | N/A |
| NAIA | 202 | 30 | 12 | 12 | N/A | Equivalency |
| JUCO | 246 | 19 | 24 | 24 | N/A | Equivalency |
*If NCAA proposed settlement is approved
While athletic scholarships are capped, student-athletes can also receive need-based and academic aid. This is particularly beneficial for programs at private institutions, where extra financial assistance may be needed.
What is the Average Soccer Scholarship?
According to Worldmetrics, the average annual scholarship for a men’s soccer player in NCAA Division 1 is about $8,457. However, since men’s soccer is an equivalency sport, scholarships are often split among several players. For example, a coach with 10 scholarships could allocate eight full scholarships and split the remaining two among other athletes. The flexibility allows coaches to manage scholarships based on team needs.
The amount of financial aid also varies greatly depending on the school’s tuition. Public in-state tuition may cost around $10,000, while private university tuition can be as high as $60,000. This disparity makes calculating an "average" scholarship misleading.
Moreover, not all athletes are guaranteed scholarships throughout their college careers. Awards can change each year based on performance and other factors. Therefore, families should consider what they can afford for the full four years and compare offers based on their financial needs.
Chances of Getting a Soccer Scholarship
Soccer scholarships are highly competitive, with only about 7% of U.S. high school men’s soccer players going on to play in college. Of those, only 2% make it to NCAA Division 1 (Worldmetrics). Since soccer is a global sport, international athletes also compete for scholarships and roster spots.
Insider Tip: Top athletes at all division levels typically receive more scholarship money than role players on their teams.
Colleges Offering Soccer Scholarships
Soccer scholarships are available at NCAA D1, D2, NAIA, and Junior College levels. However, the number of scholarships at a school depends on factors like the coach’s budget, whether the program is fully funded, and how scholarships are distributed.
Examples of schools offering soccer scholarships:
- University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill (Division 1)
- Stanford University (Division 1)
- University of West Florida (Division 2)
- Azusa Pacific University (NAIA)
- Tyler Junior College (NJCAA)
NCAA Division 1 Men’s Soccer Scholarships
D1 men’s soccer offers some of the most competitive athletic scholarships. Starting in 2025-2026, new NCAA rules will remove scholarship limits but cap roster sizes at 28 players. Since D1 is an equivalency sport, scholarships can still be split between full and partial awards.
Schools aren’t required to meet the maximum number of scholarships allowed, as it depends on funding and other factors. This flexibility allows programs to tailor their scholarship offers based on team needs.
NCAA Division 2 Men’s Soccer Scholarships
D2 schools can offer full scholarships, though, as an equivalency sport, coaches often split the nine available scholarships among the team’s 31 players. The amount given to each athlete varies based on the coach’s discretion.
NCAA Division 3 Men’s Soccer Scholarships
D3 schools don’t provide athletic scholarships, but many athletes receive academic and need-based aid. Athletes with strong academic records or community involvement may qualify for additional scholarships.
NAIA Men’s Soccer Scholarships
NAIA schools offer a competitive level similar to D2, with a maximum of 12 scholarships per team. Coaches can choose to split these scholarships among their roster, which typically averages 30 players.
Junior College Men’s Soccer Scholarships
Junior colleges offer excellent opportunities to secure a full-ride scholarship, with an average roster size of 19 and 24 scholarships per team. These programs serve as a stepping stone for athletes looking to transfer to a higher division.
How to get recruited NCAA Soccer
The recruiting process for college men’s soccer is highly competitive. Approximately 7.9% of high school soccer players advance to play at the college level, with only about 1.1% reaching Division 1. To succeed, athletes need not only strong athletic ability and good grades but also a serious approach to recruitment.
This section outlines the key steps in the recruiting process and the typical order in which they occur, helping families stay organized and on track.
However, each athlete’s recruiting journey is unique, varying by player and school. It’s crucial for athletes to be proactive and not wait for coaches to discover them. This guide covers all the milestones recruits should aim for as they start their men’s soccer recruitment journey.
When does the recruiting process for men’s soccer begin?
For athletes and parents looking to get ahead in the recruiting process, it's important to be prepared by sophomore year of high school. According to a survey of Division 1 men’s soccer coaches, 74% start evaluating talent in 10th grade, with 22% beginning in 11th grade. If student-athletes want to secure a college roster spot, they should be contacting coaches by their sophomore year. By junior year, many coaches have already filled their rosters.
Starting the recruiting process: Setting expectations
The first steps in the college soccer recruiting process are research and self-evaluation. Athletes and their families should assess what is achievable both athletically and academically. Here are some key questions to consider before starting the recruiting journey:
Am I ready for the demands of being a college soccer player?
Playing college sports, regardless of division, requires a significant time commitment. Coaches prioritize evaluating an athlete’s dedication. With early practices, irregular training times, travel, classes, and homework, athletes need to be sure they can manage the demands of being a collegiate student-athlete.
Am I good enough to play college soccer?
The recruiting process is competitive, so athletes must evaluate their current skill set and project their growth by freshman year of college. Conversations with current coaches can help provide honest feedback about skill levels and future potential.
What division level is right for me?
There are thousands of roster spots across Division 1, 2, 3, NAIA, and junior colleges, but earning one is no easy feat. Athletes should assess their abilities and consult with their coaches to determine the right level of competition for them.
Do I need to play club soccer to get recruited?
Playing high school soccer alone is not enough to attract the attention of most college coaches. Club soccer experience is essential, as most recruiting happens at club tournaments and showcases. Athletes aiming to play at the collegiate level should have at least two years of elite club soccer experience, and four years is common. Top competitions include the Elite Clubs National League (ECNL) and National Premier Leagues (NPL), along with state and regional Olympic Development Program (ODP) teams.
The coach’s role in the recruitment process
Student-athletes must take initiative during the recruiting process, but their high school or club coach can play an important advocacy role. Coaches can provide guidance on the appropriate level of competition and may communicate with college coaches on the athlete's behalf. However, athletes should be mindful of their coach's time, as they have many responsibilities.
Researching schools and creating a target list
The recruiting process can be lengthy, but a solid approach involves thorough research and casting a wide net. After identifying the appropriate division level, athletes should create a target list of schools based on academic, athletic, and personal preferences. Start with a list of 20 to 30 schools, including:
5–10 safety schools: Schools that should be easier to get into both athletically and academically.
10–15 target schools: These are top choices where athletes have a good chance of being accepted.
5–10 reach schools: Programs that are more challenging to get into but still worth pursuing.
As recruits communicate with coaches and learn more about each school, they can refine their list by adding or eliminating schools.
Creating an impressive recruiting video
A standout recruiting video is crucial for athletes who want to catch a coach's attention. Coaches want to see game footage with players making 20–25 impactful plays. For goalkeepers, a combination of game and skills footage is best.
Here are some tips for making a top-notch video:
- Keep it brief—3 to 6 minutes max.
- Skip intros and music; coaches are interested in the action.
- Lead with the best plays to grab attention immediately.
How to contact college soccer coaches
Once recruits have gathered contact information for coaches on their target list, they should begin outreach. The process includes:
- Completing recruiting questionnaires for each school of interest.
- Sending introductory emails to coaches with a highlight video and key stats.
- Following up with phone calls.
- Responding to all coach communications, including emails and social media messages.
- Providing coaches with updated stats, videos, and game schedules regularly.
If recruits struggle to connect with a coach, they can ask their high school or club coach to reach out on their behalf.
Choosing the right tournaments, camps, and showcases
To maximize recruiting opportunities, athletes should play in tournaments, camps, and showcases where their target schools’ coaches will be in attendance. Research events with a history of strong coach turnout, and make sure to confirm attendance with the coaches.
Managing the recruiting process
Once the recruiting process begins, recruits should remain proactive. This involves regularly updating their recruiting profiles, sending new stats and videos, visiting campuses, and keeping coaches informed about their progress. Athletes should also stay on top of eligibility requirements and standardized testing deadlines.
Understanding scholarship offers and negotiations
Men’s soccer is an equivalency sport, meaning coaches can distribute scholarships in any way they choose. Athletes aiming to negotiate their scholarship offer should secure interest from multiple schools, using those offers to their advantage during negotiations.
Subject: MLS Next Winger 2025 With Video 4.0 GPA 6'1 - David Smith
Hey Coach [Coach's Last Name],
My name is [Your Full Name], and I am very interested in your men’s soccer program at [School Name]. I am a [position] from [City, State] and currently play for [Club Team Name/High School Team Name]. I will be graduating in [Month, Year] and am eager to continue my academic and athletic journey at the collegiate level.
Here is some information about my soccer background:
Position: [Your Position]
Height/Weight: [Your Height/Weight]
GPA/SAT/ACT: [Your GPA] / [Test Scores, if applicable]
Key Achievements: [List some accomplishments, e.g., team captain, all-state honors, tournament wins]
Video Links: [Insert links to highlight videos, game footage, or a player profile]
I have researched your program, and I am particularly drawn to [mention something specific about the school/program, like the playing style, recent successes, coaching philosophy, academic programs, etc.].
Do you have any camps coming up? Are you looking for a [Position] Next year?
Thank you for your time, and I look forward to the opportunity to learn more about your soccer program at [School Name].
Best regards,
[Your Full Name]
[Your Phone Number]
[Your Email Address]
[Your Graduation Year]
Email Tips to NCAA Coaches
Keep it concise and personal: Avoid sending a generic email. Mention specific details about the coach's program, like recent achievements or why you are interested in their school.
Include key information: Make sure to provide your position, graduation year, club/high school team, GPA, and links to your highlight videos or player profile.
Attach a short resume: Include a simple, one-page resume with your athletic and academic accomplishments, statistics, and contact details for easy reference.
Show genuine interest: Highlight what you know about the coach’s program and why it stands out to you. Coaches are more likely to respond if they know you’re specifically interested in their team.
Follow up: If you don’t hear back after a week or two, send a polite follow-up email to reaffirm your interest.
Assistants: Don’t just message the head coach! Find the assistants email too, even the grad assistant or volunteer.
