Are there more scholarships available for soccer players?

I'm a junior in high school who's played soccer for years. I'm curious if colleges tend to offer a lot of scholarships specifically for soccer players, and if so, how competitive are they to get?

Many colleges do offer scholarships specifically for soccer players. However, the availability and competitiveness can vary greatly depending on the level of play, the division of the school, and the school itself.

NCAA Division I and II schools are typically the ones that offer athletic scholarships, including for soccer. Division I schools are often highly competitive, with players usually having a high level of play often noticed by recruiters as early as their sophomore or junior years of high school. Division II schools are slightly less competitive but still offer a high level of play and, importantly, the potential for athletic scholarships.

On the other hand, NCAA Division III schools cannot offer athletic scholarships, but they can offer academic scholarships and need-based financial aid that can help cover costs.

It's essential to keep in mind that athletic scholarships are often not 'full-ride' and might cover only a portion of costs including tuition, room, and board. The proportion covered can depend on numerous factors such as the specific athletic budget of a school, a coach's discretion, and the player's skills.

The competitiveness of these scholarships can be high considering the number of athletes vying for them. To increase your chances, it's essential to be proactive in reaching out to college coaches, participating in college soccer camps, and maintaining a strong academic record since a good GPA can also play a factor in coach's decisions. Your high school coach can also be a great resource for navigating the recruitment process.

Lastly, remember it's more than the athletic scholarship. Consider the academic fit, social environment, and overall cost when deciding if a college is the right fit for you.