Getting recruited to play college soccer is a complex process that requires research, preparation, and persistence. While every level of college soccer—D1, D2, D3, NAIA, and JUCO—offers a different experience, knowing the differences and expectations can help you find the best fit for your playing style, academic goals, and overall college experience.

To improve your chances of getting recruited, you need to understand the standards of play, rules, and practice hours for each level. Here’s a breakdown of what you need to know and how you can best prepare for recruitment.

1. Understanding the Different Levels of College Soccer

Every level of college soccer has different standards, expectations, and rules. Choosing the right fit isn’t just about playing at the highest level possible—it’s about finding a program where you can thrive and develop as a player.

NCAA Division 1 (D1) – The Highest Level

What to Expect:

    •    Super physical, fast, and highly technical. Every player on a D1 roster was likely one of the best players on their high school or club team.

    •    More athleticism is required—D1 teams prioritize speed, strength, and endurance along with technical ability.

    •    Highly competitive recruiting process—Coaches recruit players early, sometimes as young as their sophomore or junior year of high school.

    •    Scholarships available—Up to 9.9 full scholarships for men’s teams and 14 full scholarships for women’s teams (though they are usually divided among multiple players).

Practice & Training:

    •    D1 schools train the most—up to 20 hours per week during the season.

    •    Offseason: 8 hours per week (limited training with the ball).

    •    Expect multiple weightlifting sessions, film study, and team meetings every week.

Best Practices for Getting Recruited to a D1 School:

✅ Start reaching out to coaches early (sophomore/junior year).

✅ Create a high-quality highlight video that shows your speed, technical ability, and physicality.

✅ Attend ID camps at schools you’re genuinely interested in.

✅ Stay on top of your fitness and conditioning—athleticism is a major factor at this level.

NCAA Division 2 (D2) – High Technical Ability & Tactical Play

What to Expect:

    •    Still highly competitive, but slightly less physical and intense than D1.

    •    Technical ability is prioritized more than pure athleticism.

    •    Many D2 programs compete at a D1 level, especially top teams.

    •    Scholarships available—Up to 9 full scholarships per men’s team and 9.9 per women’s team.

Practice & Training:

    •    Season: Up to 15 hours per week.

    •    Offseason: 8 hours per week.

    •    Weight training and film study are still common, but the overall commitment may be slightly less than D1.

Best Practices for Getting Recruited to a D2 School:

✅ Emphasize your technical skills in your highlight video.

✅ Keep in frequent contact with coaches—D2 recruiting timelines are later than D1.

✅ Be open to partial scholarships, as most schools split their scholarship money among multiple players.

✅ Focus on tactical awareness and soccer IQ, as D2 teams rely heavily on structured play.

NCAA Division 3 (D3) – Strong Academics & Passion for the Game

What to Expect:

    •    No athletic scholarships—but academic and merit-based scholarships are available.

    •    High levels of skill, but typically less athleticism than D1/D2.

    •    Balance between soccer and academics—D3 schools allow more flexibility for student-athletes.

    •    Many top D3 programs could compete with lower-level D1/D2 teams.

Practice & Training:

    •    Season: 10-12 hour training limits per week.

    •    Offseason: No official practices allowed with coaches (players train on their own).

    •    Weight training is encouraged but not always required.

Best Practices for Getting Recruited to a D3 School:

✅ Strong academic performance is a must—D3 coaches look for players who excel in school.

✅ Contact coaches and express your desire to play, even without scholarships.

✅ Look into academic scholarships to help offset tuition costs.

✅ Be prepared to play for the love of the game, not financial incentives.

NAIA – A Competitive Alternative to the NCAA

What to Expect:

    •    Similar level of play to NCAA D2, with some teams competing at a D1 level.

    •    Fewer recruiting restrictions than NCAA schools.

    •    Scholarships are available—NAIA teams can offer up to 12 scholarships per team, which is more than NCAA D2.

    •    Many NAIA schools focus on international recruiting to bring in high-level talent.

Practice & Training:

    •    Season: 20-hour training limit per week, like D1/D2.

    •    Offseason: 8-hour limit, but less strictly enforced than NCAA schools.

Best Practices for Getting Recruited to an NAIA School:

✅ Highlight your versatility—NAIA schools look for well-rounded players.

✅ Look into NAIA showcase events and ID camps.

✅ Be open to playing with international players, as many NAIA rosters have a mix of domestic and foreign talent.

JUCO (Junior College) – A Pathway to Higher Levels

What to Expect:

    •    A stepping stone to D1, D2, or NAIA programs.

    •    Many players develop at JUCO before transferring to a four-year school.

    •    Highly physical and competitive, with some JUCO teams playing at a D2 or D1 level.

    •    Affordable tuition and the opportunity to continue developing before moving on to a higher level.

Practice & Training:

    •    Season: Similar to D1 20-hour weekly limits, but varies from school to school

    •    Offseason: Training depends on the program.

Best Practices for Getting Recruited to a JUCO:

✅ Use JUCO as a stepping stone—many players transfer to D1/D2 after two years.

✅ Keep an open mind—JUCO can be a great option financially and developmentally.

✅ Be prepared for a grind, as JUCO programs often have less funding and resources than four-year schools.

Final Thoughts: Finding the Right Fit

There’s no single “best” level—the right fit depends on your playing ability, goals, and priorities.

Key Takeaways for Getting Recruited:

✅ Understand the differences between D1, D2, D3, NAIA, and JUCO.

✅ Be realistic about where you can compete—every level is competitive.

✅ Prioritize professionalism and punctuality—coaches recruit players who are responsible and committed.

✅ Stay proactive—reach out to coaches, attend ID camps, and build strong relationships.

✅ Keep your options open—a lower division school may offer more playing time, scholarships, or a better overall fit.

At the end of the day, getting recruited is about finding the best balance of academics, athletics, and personal growth. Choose the school that will set you up for success both on and off the field!