Many prospective student-athletes go into the recruitment process blindly, clueless at how to get recruited for college soccer, thus leading to them stumbling around in the dark and splurging money on every college ID camp advertised. With thousands of voices online spouting opinions that contradict the last, the following steps will make it seem simple.

Step 1: Do your research

Before you reach out to schools or prepare your highlight video, it is crucial to determine the difference between the various levels of collegiate soccer. The main three are the NCAA, NAIA, and NJCAA. There are several differences between each division.

Junior college soccer is a great starting point due to the increased chance of playing time and affordability. NAIA soccer allows for a more intimate four-year setting, with smaller schools making up most of the division. Don’t overlook top-ranked NAIA schools, as they are as competitive as many schools in the NCAA and can offer more scholarships.

The NCAA comprises divisions I, II, and III, with D2 and D3 offering a great balance of athletics and academics. Division One soccer is considered the cream of the crop and requires the most significant time commitment. Make sure to target schools in the division that aligns the closest to what you wish to gain for your collegiate experience athletically, academically, and sociably.

As part of this research phase, attending the right ID camps can be a game-changer. They offer a rare chance to be evaluated live by coaches, but only if you attend the right events for your level and goals. Here’s my full guide to ID camps, what to expect, how to prepare, and how to choose camps that will actually help your recruitment.

Step 2: Create a Recruiting Profile

Playing soccer in college is a competitive business, starting before stepping onto the training field. A limited number of roster spots are available on each collegiate side, and even fewer athletic scholarships are available. This makes it crucial to market yourself effectively and stand out.

The first step for potential soccer recruits should be to create a soccer resume that lists the different levels you have played at, your individual accolades, and some information about you as a player, such as your preferred positions and standout attributes; finally, include as many of your statistics as possible.

Step 3: Make a Highlight Video

Coaches need to see you play before even considering you for a spot on their team. And their first glimpse of you will often come via video. If you don’t know how to make a soccer highlight video, It is a straightforward skill to pick up through trial and error.

Tips for an Effective Highlight Video

• Open with your best plays in the first 30-45 seconds.
• Keep the total length between 3–5 minutes.
• Make it easy for coaches to identify you in each clip.
• Show a variety of situations: technical skill, game intelligence, and work rate.

A well-made highlight reel can be the difference between being ignored or getting a coach’s attention.

Step 4: Contact College Coaches to Get Recruited for College Soccer

Start reaching out to college coaches as soon as you have completed the aforementioned steps while maximizing the tools at your disposal, such as utilizing any contacts you may have, like a friend at another school or a former youth coach with vast connections in the collegiate game.

How to Approach Coaches

• Find coaches’ email addresses on the school’s athletics website.
• Personalize each email. Mention the team’s recent performance, the coach’s name, and why you see yourself as a good fit for their program.
• Be respectful and clear about what you offer.
• Use connections if you have them — former coaches, teammates, or family friends can be valuable contacts.

Recruitment is as much about relationships as it is about performance.

Step 5: Evaluate your options

There will come a point in your recruitment journey where you will need to weigh up the offers you have received and compare each offer’s suitability for you.

How to Make the Right Choice

Ask yourself:

• Will you be happy fighting for a spot, or do you want a program where you can start early?
• What’s more important: playing time, scholarship money, location, or academics?
• Do you want a strong athletic program or a school that prioritizes education?

There’s no right or wrong answer, but knowing your priorities will help you choose the right school.

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Final Thoughts: How to Get Recruited for College Soccer the Right Way

Playing soccer in college at any level is a privilege that should not be taken lightly. Give yourself the best chance of playing at your dream school by starting your recruitment process early and getting ahead of the competition.

The sooner you start preparing, the more options you’ll have.
Recruitment isn’t about luck — it’s about building a plan and sticking to it.

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Ready to Get Recruited for College Soccer? Let’s Make a Plan

Want help navigating your recruitment journey? Whether you’re just getting started or looking for your next opportunity, I can help you make a plan and connect you with the right options through CSI Insight+.

DM me on Instagram: @jmc_recruiting
Email me: joseph@collegesoccerinsight.com

Let’s make your college soccer goals a reality.

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Still have questions about the college soccer recruiting process?
Here are some quick answers to help you get started.

FAQs About Getting Recruited for College Soccer

When should I start the college soccer recruitment process?

The earlier, the better. Ideally, you should start reaching out to coaches during your sophomore or junior year of high school to maximize your opportunities.

Do I need a highlight video to get recruited for college soccer

Yes. A well-made highlight video is one of the most important tools you have to get noticed by college coaches, especially if they can’t scout you in person.

For more tips, check out our guide on making a great soccer highlight video.

What should I include in a soccer recruiting profile?

Your soccer resume should list the levels you’ve played at, your preferred positions, standout attributes, awards, academic achievements, and updated stats.

Should I email college coaches directly?

Yes. Personalizing your email and showing genuine interest in their program is one of the best ways to get a coach’s attention during the recruitment process.

If you’re not sure how to structure your email, check out our college soccer email template guide for examples and tips.

How do I choose the right college soccer program?

Focus on your priorities — playing time, academics, location, scholarship offers, and team culture. Choose a school where you’ll grow both as a player and a person.