NCAA (National Collegiate Athletic Association)​
The NCAA is the largest and most prestigious governing body of college sports in the U.S. It is divided into three divisions:
Division 1
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The highest level of competition, comparable to professional academies.
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Elite athletic programs with top facilities and high exposure.
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Limited number of athletic scholarships (around 9.9 for men's soccer and 14 for women's soccer per team).
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Competitive conferences such as the ACC, Big Ten, and Pac-12 offer national exposure.
Includes the most competitive universities with elite athletic programs and substantial funding. Athletic scholarships are more generous, and the level of play is very high.
Division2
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High level of play, but with a greater balance between academics and athletics.
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Fewer scholarships available than Division I (around 9 for men and 9.9 for women).
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Less media exposure, but still a strong pathway to professional opportunities.
​Also offers athletic scholarships but with a more balanced focus between academics and sports.
Division 3
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No athletic scholarships, but academic and merit-based financial aid is available.
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Focuses on student-athlete experience, emphasizing academics over sports.
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Competitive level but with fewer resources and national exposure than D1 or D2.
Emphasizes the academic experience, with no direct athletic scholarships, though financial aid is available based on academics and other factors.
NCAA Eligibility Requirements
To compete in NCAA soccer, players must meet strict eligibility requirements, which are regulated by the NCAA Eligibility Center:
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Academic Requirements:
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Completion of high school with a minimum GPA.
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Meeting standardized test score requirements (SAT or ACT).​​
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Amateurism Rules:
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Players cannot have signed a professional contract before joining the NCAA.
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They must maintain their eligibility by not competing in fully professional leagues after high school.
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NCAA eligibility is typically limited to four years.