5 Reasons to Play College Soccer in the USA

Why play college soccer? Explore five reasons to combine soccer and study in the US, watch an inside look at a D1 team, and learn how to find the right fit.

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by Lars Blenckers

Published October 12, 2026

Playing soccer while studying in the US is an exciting idea. But whether college soccer is right for you depends on more than your ability on the field. Your education, environment and costs matter too. Here are five reasons to explore the option, with a realistic picture of what to expect.

1. Keep playing while you study

In the US, you can work toward a degree and play competitive soccer for your college at the same time. Training, games and classes take planning, but that combination is what makes college soccer special.

There are different routes, including NCAA, NAIA and junior college. Teams and opportunities vary. The best choice is not automatically the highest division; it is a place where you can grow as a player and a student.

Want to see the full pathway first? See how college soccer in the USA works.

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Creighton Men's Soccer

2. Become part of a team

You share more than games with your teammates: practices, travel, classes and everyday life on campus. For many players, those shared experiences are what stay with them long after graduation.

Want to see what that can look like? This video takes you inside one Division I team. It gives a vivid sense of the atmosphere and routine, although daily life differs from one university to another.

Watch Life Inside a D1 College Soccer Team on YouTube.

3. Work toward a degree and your future

Alongside your development as a player, you choose a course of study that fits your interests. You experience a different education system and gain experience beyond soccer. What comes next depends on your degree, decisions and circumstances.

That is why we look beyond the team and the coach. Your university and academic program should fit your plans too.

4. Explore your scholarship options

A soccer scholarship may reduce the cost of studying in the US. Awards vary by university and player; academic aid or other financial support may also be available. A full scholarship is never guaranteed.

Compare the full cost, including tuition, housing, meals and other expenses, after any support actually offered. Read more about how soccer scholarships work.

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Gijs Hovius bij Missouri State University

5. Grow beyond the field

Living in another country, communicating in English and balancing soccer with classes can teach you a lot about yourself. It takes independence, and adjusting will not always be easy. At the same time, you become part of a team and a new community.

Choosing a university and a team where you can feel at home is therefore just as important as the playing level.

How we help you choose

Lars and Christoph have experienced college soccer themselves, as a player and a coach. We start with a personal assessment of your soccer, academic background, goals and budget. Then we explore which pathways and universities are genuinely right for you.

If we decide to move forward together, we help with your profile and video, communication with coaches, and comparing athletic, academic and financial options. We also guide you through the steps toward admission and departure. After you arrive, we remain available if you have questions.

Wondering whether college soccer is a realistic option for you? Take the short check. Lars or Christoph will personally look at your situation.

Smiling man with short hair wearing a black jacket with orange +31SPORTS lion logo.
Lars Blenckers
Founder of +31 Sports
Lars helps student-athletes find the right college opportunitues and turn their sports dreams in to reality.