Scholarships are a form of financial aid offered to students attending Universities in the USA. They are awarded based on athletic and academic achievements, though this varies from school to school. They typically lower the cost of tuition, and some also cover housing and living expenses.
Set into 3 divisions, NCAA schools often have the most money, best facilities and more scholarships. Top D1 schools are the standard in the college system. D2 schools can be stronger than D1 sides, but may have lesser facilities or are not categorized for D1. D3 schools are fantastic institutions for education, have outstanding facilities and often have a beautiful campus.
For internationals, the NAIA is a perfect avenue. The restrictions for eligibility are more lenient. The majority of starting players in the NAIA national tournaments are international players. In terms of finances and facilities, they can be a mixed bag. The NAIA stretches across the spectrum ability-wise, with top teams competing as some of the best in the country. They are often in smaller towns or in rural areas. Two of our staff have played NAIA and are huge advocates for it.
Also known as JUCO’s, these schools are a great option. These are 2-year schools, where you look to transfer half-way through your degree to a 4-year school. Player’s who attend JUCO’s often go on to gain greater scholarships at potentially better teams than if they had not gone down the JUCO route. Top D1 schools cherry-pick from JUCO’s every year. The NJCAA is split into 3 divisions (D1, D2, D3) alike the NCAA. Playing 2 years at a JUCO gives 4-year college coaches validation of your abilities in the American game, as it can be very hard to know what level an international player is before recruiting them.
Once you join, you'll connect with our team to discuss your preferences and eligibility. Together, we'll create a plan to match your ambitions.
The highlight video is your opportunity to showcase your skills and be rewarded for your athletic ability. It is often the only thing coaches have to evaluate your potential. We offer support when designing and editing your video to maximise your chances.
We will also work with you to plan a wishlist. This will include location, academic programs, campus culture, and financial considerations.
Reaching out to college coaches is a crucial step in securing your scholarship. Coaches are always on the lookout for passionate and committed athletes who are a good fit for their team, and they often rely on registered agencies like Statebound during recruitment.
Once you’ve impressed the coaches and received an offer, the next step is to officially accept your scholarship. This is an exciting milestone that solidifies your spot on the team at the college of your choice. Accepting a scholarship is not just a commitment to your sport, but to an incredible journey of academic and personal growth.
With your scholarship offer secured, it’s time to finalize the logistics of your journey to the USA. This includes completing your visa application, which allows you to legally study and compete at your chosen college. The process can feel overwhelming, but we’ll provide you with the guidance and resources needed to ensure everything is completed accurately and on time.
Once your visa is approved, it’s time to book your flights and prepare for an exciting new chapter. From packing essentials to travel tips, we’ll help you feel confident and ready to make the big move.
A scholarship is more than just financial aid - it is your path to experiencing soccer in the USA as a student athlete. Train under experienced coaches with top-notch facilities, in an environment dedicated to sports performance. Prepare for your future by getting an undergraduate degree in the process in a major of your choosing.
Whether you are pursuing a professional career in sport, or are looking to use your soccer experience to receive a cut-price degree, University in the USA can unlock opportunities for you. The MLS recruits directly from colleges across the USA, so your future is in your hands. You can also major in any subject, meaning you can pursue your academic passion at the same time.
The United States offers a unique and unparalleled environment for student-athletes. College sports in the U.S. are highly competitive and receive significant investment, boasting state-of-the-art facilities, professional-level coaching, and a culture that values athletic excellence alongside academic achievement. Whether you’re playing in front of packed stadiums or fine-tuning your skills in cutting-edge training centers, the emphasis on sports development is unmatched, providing an experience that sets you up for success both on and off the field.
Beyond the game, being a student-athlete in the USA allows you to build lasting relationships, grow in confidence, and develop a sense of discipline that translates into all areas of life. Competing in a collegiate sports program opens doors to networking opportunities, post-college careers, and global connections, creating a foundation for a bright and promising future.
Eligibility for a sports scholarship in the USA depends on a combination of academic performance, athletic ability, and compliance with governing body regulations such as those set by the NCAA, NAIA, or NJCAA. Academic eligibility often includes meeting specific GPA requirements and standardized test scores, while athletic eligibility is determined by skill level, achievements, and the needs of the recruiting colleges. Different schools and divisions have varying criteria, making it essential to understand where you fit.
It’s important to start the eligibility process early to ensure everything is in order for recruitment. From securing transcripts and highlight reels to navigating the rules of governing bodies, preparation is key. Knowing the requirements also helps highlight your strengths to potential colleges, ensuring you stand out as a top candidate.
