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College Recruiting Guides

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How to Get Recruited

Our guides on “How to Get Recruited” are your ultimate playbook for navigating the college athletic recruiting process. Packed with expert advice, they break down key steps like starting early, understanding what coaches look for, and making yourself stand out. These guides will equip you with the tools to turn your athletic dreams into reality.

Learn how college coaches recruit athletes—from identifying prospective athletes to extending offers and signing them.

Dive in >

Understand the College Divisions

Explore the unique features, benefits, and challenges of the NCAA, NAIA, and JUCO athletic divisions to find the college level that’s the perfect fit for you.

Explore divisions > 

A Guide to Athletic Scholarships

Discover the strategies every family needs to unlock athletic scholarships and navigate NCAA requirements with confidence.

Discover opportunities > 

Create a College Recruiting Video

A great highlight video can get you some serious attention from college coaches. This guide covers what footage to capture and showcase on your recruiting profile. 

Create your video > 

Attend Workshops to Expand Your Recruiting Knowledge

Enhance your recruiting knowledge and sharpen your skills with our expert-led online workshops hosted by former college coaches.

Browse our workshops > 

DON’T HAVE AN NCSA PROFILE YET?

Join over 4 million athletes who have used NCSA to connect with college coaches, get expert recruiting guidance, and find their perfect college match!

Explore Colleges and Find Your Best Fit

Finding a college that fits your needs is an important step in your recruiting journey and can make a big difference in your future success. That’s why it’s a good idea to research different programs and make a well-rounded school list to give yourself the best chance to find the right college for you.

The Best Colleges for Student-Athletes 

We ranked the most sought-after schools among millions of high school student-athletes and their families using the NCSA platform.

View the rankings > 

NCAA Division 1 Colleges

View a complete list of NCAA Division 1 Colleges.

Explore D1 colleges > 

NCAA Division 2 Colleges

View a complete list of NCAA Division 2 Colleges.

Explore D2 colleges > 

NCAA Division 3 Colleges

View a complete list of NCAA Division 3 Colleges.

Explore D3 colleges > 

NAIA Colleges

View a complete list of NAIA schools.

Explore NAIA schools >

Coach Communication

Our coach communication guides focus on building effective communication with college coaches and making meaningful connections that showcase your skills and dedication. Learn how to craft impactful emails, prepare for phone calls, and ask the right questions to stand out during the recruiting process.

A Guide to Emailing Coaches

Learn how to craft effective emails to college coaches, including tips on subject lines, personalizing messages, and showcasing achievements, to make a strong first impression.

Craft emails that stand out > 

Resources for Calling Coaches

Learn how to confidently communicate with college coaches on the phone with preparation tips, voicemail templates, and follow-up strategies to boost your recruiting potential.

Start connecting > 

How to Use Social Media for Recruiting

This guide provides strategies for using social media in college recruiting, including tips for engaging with coaches on various platforms, and best practices for a professional online presence. 

 Improve your online presence > 

Guide to camps and recruiting events

Discover the purpose of camps, combines, and showcases, and learn how to choose events that align with your skills and recruiting goals. 

Choose the right event > 

guide to camps

Follow Eligibility and Recruiting Rules

Navigating eligibility requirements is a key step in the recruiting process. The NCAA and NAIA each have specific rules and standards. Our resources simplify these guidelines, helping you understand what’s needed to compete at the collegiate level.

A Guide to NCAA Eligibility Center

Learn how the NCAA Eligibility Center works and what steps to take to ensure compliance with academic and amateurism standards. 

Start here > 

Understand NCAA Eligibility Requirements

Get a clear overview of the academic, athletic, and amateurism criteria set by the NCAA. 

Learn more > 

Navigate NCAA Recruiting Rules

Discover the NCAA’s recruiting rules and timelines to ensure you’re on track throughout the process. 

Stay informed > 

A Guide to NAIA Eligibility Center

Explore the NAIA Eligibility Center and understand the steps to certify your eligibility for NAIA athletics. 

Explore now > 

Understand NAIA Eligibility Requirements

Learn the academic and athletic qualifications needed to compete in NAIA programs. 

Get details >

Manage Your College Recruiting Process

The recruiting journey can leave families wondering, “What’s next?” This guide offers tips on staying organized, understanding timelines, and taking proactive steps to stay on track and make informed decisions.

The College Application Process 

Learn how the college application process works, with step-by-step guidance on meeting deadlines and highlighting your strengths.

Learn the process > 

Going on Campus Visits

Campus visits are a crucial part of the recruiting process, offering insight into the school’s environment, culture and more. Use this guide to navigate both official and unofficial visits.

Official visits >  Unofficial visits > 

Understand Offers

Gain clarity on athletic scholarship offers, including what they mean, how to evaluate them, and the next steps in the decision-making process.

Explore offers >

National Signing Day

This resource is designed to guide you through the final steps of the recruiting journey, ensuring you are well-informed and prepared for this pivotal moment.

How to commit to a college