How to get a rugby scholarship in the USA
US College Rugby has experienced rapid growth in recent years and is currently the second fastest-growing sport in the United States. If you are a passionate rugby player looking to take your career to the next level while also pursuing a world-class education, complete our free evaluation to see if you could qualify to play college rugby in the United States.
Complete evaluationIt is a great time to play US college rugby. With the announcement of the USA hosting the 2031 Rugby World Cup, and the successful launch of the Major League Rugby (MLR), rugby has seen a massive surge in interest and funding.
That said, it's important to note that while US college rugby is growing, men's rugby is not yet an NCAA-sanctioned sport, meaning the rules and regulations surrounding rugby scholarships differ depending on whether you are playing for a men's or women's team.
For male players, the benefit of not being NCAA-sanctioned is that you do not have to meet many of the rigorous restrictions that the NCAA places on other US college sports. For instance, they restrict the number of sports scholarships a college team can provide. The distribution of funding is at the university's discretion and not limited by the NCAA.
Here are a few things you can do to increase your chances of receiving funding:
1. Maintain high academic standards
While USA men's rugby is not subject to the NCAA's academic eligibility restrictions, coaches for both men's and women's teams will review your academic reports and transcripts before granting scholarships. Having a high grade point average (GPA) will make an impact and may also qualify you for academic scholarships.
2. Compile a sports resumé
College coaches will evaluate your rugby history by looking at your playing experience and the level you competed at, such as school, club, regional or national teams.
3. Collect video footage
Coaches will ask you to come for a trial or attend a showcase, but as an international student it’s more likely they’ll request to see footage of you playing. It’s a good idea to always have a highlights reel handy as well as a few full games as coaches know a highlights reel does not tell the full story of your ability.
Some coaches and admission officers may award rugby scholarships based on the student's financial capabilities to pay. They may require you to submit sensitive financial information to analyse your family's income, assets, and debts.
Do you believe you have what it takes to play rugby at an American university?
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How do USA college rugby scholarships work?
Rugby scholarships are typically awarded by college coaches in consultation with the admissions office, based on a combination of the student's athletic ability, academic achievement, and financial need.
The best way for you to increase your chances of receiving a scholarship is to be an all-rounder. In addition to working on your sport, ensure you are at the top of your academic game. This may also make you eligible for financial assistance through academic scholarships, depending on your grade point average (GPA) and standardised test scores such as the SAT and ACT.
- Rugby players from South Africa, New Zealand and Australia alike, can participate at the school level and still receive scholarships.
- The players who represent their province/state or national teams can receive more financial support.
- A strong GPA and test scores can earn you more scholarships.
Rugby scholarships are awarded annually, and their renewal is subject to a student's academic and athletic performance as well as attitude and commitment during the year.
We can connect you with the right college coaches and universities who will meet both your academic and athletic goals.
Who awards sports scholarships in the USA?
Athletic scholarships are awarded by institutions and colleges that belong to the athletic associations National Collegiate Athletic Association (NCAA), National Association of Intercollegiate Athletic (NAIA) and National Junior College Athletic Association (NJCAA).
The number of scholarships available can vary from college to college, but generally the NCAA Division I colleges have more scholarships to offer than Division II and III schools and other associations.
Each athletic association has strict rules for renewing scholarships based on athletic and academic performance; thus, students must maintain their performance throughout their college career to keep their scholarships.
It is important to note that not all athletes receive athletic scholarships. Even if you receive a scholarship, it may only be partial, meaning you may still have to pay for some of the costs associated with attending college.
Frequently asked questions about USA college rugby scholarships
What are the top colleges for rugby in the USA?
Some well-known colleges in the US that embrace college rugby and have a strong rugby tradition are Life University, UC Berkeley, UCLA and Brigham Young University, but there are many more so it’s worth talking to your Sable International adviser to find out more.
How does US college rugby work?
Men's college rugby is governed by USA Rugby, the national governing body, while women's rugby is goverened by the NCAA as an emerging sport. Rugby is growing in popularity and is played at universities across the country.
College rugby is divided into several divisions based on the level of competition and the size of the schools. The four main divisions are:
- Division 1-A
- Division 1-AA
- Division 2
- Division 3
To determine the national champion, an annual tournament called the USA Rugby College 15s National Championships is held at the end of each season.
Do US colleges recruit rugby players in South Africa?
Yes, they do! Speak to one of our expert recruiters today about what GPA (and other requirements) you need to qualify for a rugby scholarship in the USA.
Speak to one of our expert recruiters today about what GPA (and other requirements) you need to qualify for an athletic scholarship in the USA.
A day in the life of a rugby student-athlete
Our service
By offering personalised guidance and support, we aim to help student-athletes achieve their goals of competing in collegiate sports while obtaining a world-class education in the United States.
Athletic and academic assessment
We'll evaluate your skills, performance and potential to compete at college level. We will also review your academic record to determine your eligibility for college admissions and sports scholarships.
College selection
We'll help you identify suitable colleges and universities based on your athletic and academic goals.
Recruitment process
We'll help you create a compelling sports profile, introduce you to college coaches and assist you with navigating the complex recruitment process.
Scholarship negotiation
We'll guide you through the scholarship negotiation process to maximise your financial support.
Application and admissions support
Our expertise with US universities and educational institutions allows us to effectively assist and guide student-athletes throughout the application process.
Student visa assistance
We'll provide support and guidance around obtaining your visa to study and compete in the USA.