A Simple Guide for College Soccer Players
If you’re a college soccer player thinking about transferring to a new school, you’ve probably heard people talk about the (NCAA) transfer portal. But what exactly is it?
Let’s break it down in simple terms, so you know what it is, how it works, and what to watch out for.
What Is the NCAA Transfer Portal?
The NCAA Transfer Portal is a central online database that tracks college athletes who have officially declared their intent to transfer to a different school.
Think of it like a job board for college athletes, once your name is in the portal, other college coaches across the country can see you’re available and legally reach out to you.
Need guidance in your transfer journey?
If you want honest feedback on your level, realistic landing spots, and a clear plan before you enter the portal, you can apply to work with me through CSI Insight+. I review your background, academics, and footage so you are not guessing with your next move.
How Does the Portal Work?
Here’s a basic step-by-step:
- Tell your current school’s compliance office that you want to transfer.
- Within 48 hours, they must add your name to the Transfer Portal database.
- Once you’re in, you become eligible to be contacted by other schools and coaches.
- You can stay in the portal as long as you want, or withdraw if you change your mind.
- Entering the portal doesn’t guarantee you a new opportunity, but it opens the door.
What Does the NCAA Transfer Portal Actually Show?
Once added to the portal, schools can see key information like:
- Name
- Current school and sport
- Contact info
- Your academic standing
- Your highlight video
- Whether you’re eligible immediately or need to sit out
- Notes like “seeking grad transfer” or “non-scholarship”
This helps coaches quickly determine if you’re a good fit for their program.
When Can You Enter the Portal?
For men’s and women’s NCAA Division I soccer, the official transfer windows are:
- Fall window: 30 days after the NCAA championship selections (usually early December)
- Spring window: May 1–15
To be eligible for the one-time immediate transfer rule, you must enter during these periods.
Outside of these windows, you’d need to request a waiver, which isn’t always guaranteed.
Unsure about your eligibility status? Send me an email
What Happens After You’re in?
Once you’re in the portal, the floodgates can open — or not.
- Coaches can legally contact you to discuss transfer opportunities.
- Some players get multiple offers, others hear nothing.
- You can visit schools, talk to coaches, and weigh your options.
- Once you commit to a new school, you’ll go through admissions + athletic eligibility checks before you can officially join their team.
Entering the Portal = Leaving Your Spot
When you enter the portal:
- Your current school can cancel your scholarship for the next term.
- Coaches and teammates will likely find out fast, it’s a public signal that you’re moving on.
- You’re not guaranteed a better opportunity.
This is why it’s important to take your time before deciding to enter the portal.
My Experience
I decided to enter the portal due to frustration at the lack of coaching. As an all-conference NCAA DII selection, I expected to be treated like hot property.
This wasn’t the case. Upon entering, interest largely came from DIII programs and mid-low DII schools. No NCAA DI school reached out to me.
My coach wasn’t pleased that I wanted to leave. He even tried to persuade me to stay.
Don’t be guilt-tripped into staying if your mind is already made up.
What About NAIA and JUCO Transfers?
The NCAA Transfer Portal is only for players at NCAA schools (D1, D2, D3). But players in other systems can still transfer. The differences between NCAA, NAIA, and JUCO can impact your next move:
- NAIA → NCAA: You don’t use the portal, but must meet academic and eligibility requirements.
- JUCO → NCAA or NAIA: No portal needed. These moves are usually more flexible, especially for players looking to “transfer up” after developing at the junior college level.
Who Should Use the NCAA Transfer Portal?
The portal is most useful if:
- You’re unhappy with your current program
- You want to transfer up or down a division
- You’re not getting playing time, or having issues with coaches
- You’re a graduate–transfer with eligibility left
- You have the grades, footage, and resume to make a move
It can be a game-changing tool — if you use it wisely.
Final Thoughts
The NCAA Transfer Portal is a useful tool. But like any tool, it’s only effective when used with a clear plan.
Know what kind of program you’re looking for. Understand the academic and athletic requirements. And be prepared to do your research, stay proactive, and advocate for yourself.
FAQs About the NCAA Transfer Portal
The NCAA Transfer Portal is an online database that lists college athletes who have officially declared their intent to transfer schools. Once in the portal, coaches from other programs can legally contact you about joining their teams.
Once you tell your school’s compliance office you want to transfer, they must enter your name into the portal within 48 hours.
Men’s and women’s soccer players can enter during two transfer windows:
Fall window: 30 days after the NCAA championship selections (early December)
Spring window: May 1–15
Entering outside these periods usually requires a special waiver.
If you’re planning your move, check out our guide on timing your entry into the NCAA transfer portal for important tips.
No. Entering the portal only makes you available for contact. Some players receive multiple offers, while others might not hear from any schools. Having strong grades, film, and a clear plan helps your chances.
To boost your chances, make sure you follow key steps — learn how to get recruited for college soccer here.
Yes, but your current coach and school are not required to keep you on scholarship or on the roster. Entering the portal is a public sign that you are looking to leave.
No. The portal is only for athletes transferring between NCAA schools. NAIA and JUCO players have separate transfer processes and do not use the NCAA system.
Need Help Navigating the NCAA Transfer Portal?
I have been through the transfer process myself and now I help players do it the right way. If you want someone to look at your situation, your level, and your options, you can apply to work with me through CSI Insight+ and get a clear, honest plan for your next move.
You can also reach out directly if you prefer:
- DM me on Instagram @jmc_recruiting
- Or email me
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