Top American colleges for soccer scholarships?

I'm a junior and passionate about soccer. I'm hoping to play in college with a scholarship. Could someone share which American colleges are known for offering strong soccer scholarships, and what attributes they look for in athletes?

If you're seeking strong soccer programs that offer scholarships, there are several colleges to consider.

The majority of scholarships for soccer come from Division I and Division II schools as Division III do not provide athletic scholarships. Division I schools, such as UCLA, Stanford, and the University of Virginia, have historically strong soccer programs and offer scholarships.

UCLA's men's and women's soccer programs are both competitive and have collectively produced numerous professional players. Similarly, Stanford's soccer teams have claimed several national championships, making it an attractive option for aspiring athletes.

The University of Virginia is another soccer powerhouse, with their men's team having claimed several NCAA Championships.

As for Division II schools, the University of Charleston in West Virginia is known for its strong soccer program. For women's soccer, Grand Valley State University in Michigan has a notable program.

Attributes that colleges tend to look for in soccer scholarship athletes include, but are not limited to: technical skills, tactical understanding, physical fitness, mental toughness, leadership qualities, and academic achievements. It's also important that you're active in competitive leagues outside of school, such as club or travel soccer. Engaging in such competitive environments strengthens your performance and showcases your commitment to the sport.

Remember to keep maintaining your grades alongside your sport, as academic achievements can also impact your chances of getting a scholarship. Lastly, know the rules of the NCAA eligibility center, and make sure to register in your junior year to ensure that you're eligible to play in college and receive any scholarship that you may be offered.

Of course, each school may have its own unique criteria, so I'd recommend reaching out to college coaches or athletic departments at the schools you're interested in to get a better sense of specific requirements. Good luck with your soccer aspirations!