The Best U.S University Soccer Scholarships

For aspiring soccer players in the U.S., earning a university sports scholarship isn’t just about securing a pathway to higher education—it’s often a stepping stone to a professional career. Several universities have gained reputations for developing elite talent that goes on to make significant impacts in Major League Soccer (MLS), European leagues, and international competitions.

By 'best', we have one criteria: that the University has produced top talent and notable names that are competing (or have competed) at a legitimate world level. That's our definition of success.

However, if you have secured a scholarship that's not on this list, that doesn't mean it's not going to turn you into a world class player! Your career will be defined by you, and no one else.

This is obviously a complex topic and you may disagree or have your own opinions - that's absolutely fine. As always, our goal is to help you become an elite player and help you to get the scholarship of your dreams, if that's what you want. So, let's get into it.

Klöckner Stadium, the home of the University of Virginia's soccer and lacrosse teams. *Photo credit: Virginia Men's Soccer, @UVAMenSoccer on X*

1. University of Virginia

The University of Virginia (UVA) has a long history of excellence in collegiate soccer. Its men’s soccer program, led by head coach George Gelnovatch, has produced numerous professional players and national team members. The school has won multiple NCAA championships, solidifying its position as a soccer powerhouse. Notable alumni include U.S. Men's National Team (USMNT) legend Claudio Reyna and MLS stars like Tony Meola and Chris Albright.

Reyna, a former captain of the USMNT, had a stellar career in Europe, playing for clubs like Manchester City, Rangers, and Bayer Leverkusen. His success began at UVA, where he helped the Cavaliers to multiple NCAA championships. The university continues to be a top destination for talented young players looking to balance high-level soccer with academics.

Cagan Stadium, a soccer-specific stadium on the campus of Stanford University in Stanford, California. Photo credit: *Stanford Men’s Soccer, @StanfordMSoccer on X*

2. Stanford University

Stanford is known not only for its world-class academics but also for its highly successful soccer programs. The university’s men’s soccer team has won several NCAA championships in recent years, underlining its ability to develop top-tier talent. One of the most notable Stanford alumni is Jordan Morris, a standout U.S. international who currently plays for Seattle Sounders in the MLS.

Morris is a perfect example of a player who leveraged his college soccer experience to launch a professional career. While at Stanford, he won the Hermann Trophy as the best college soccer player in the country. After college, Morris signed with the Seattle Sounders, where he quickly made a name for himself as a dynamic forward. His success at Stanford undoubtedly prepared him for the rigors of professional soccer and international competition.

Dorrance Field, the on-campus Lacrosse & Soccer Stadium at the University of North Carolina. *Photo credit: goheels.com*

3. University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill

The University of North Carolina (UNC) is another heavyweight in the world of collegiate soccer. Its men’s and women’s soccer programs have produced numerous professional players, many of whom have gone on to star in the MLS, National Women’s Soccer League (NWSL), and abroad. The women's program, led by coach Anson Dorrance, is particularly famous for its dominance, producing U.S. Women’s National Team (USWNT) stars like Mia Hamm and Tobin Heath.

Mia Hamm, arguably the most famous female soccer player in history, played for UNC and won four consecutive NCAA championships. Hamm’s time at UNC helped shape her legendary career, which included two World Cup titles and two Olympic gold medals. The Tar Heels’ program remains a prime destination for young soccer talent, continuing to produce top-level players every year.

The Wallis Annenberg Stadium, the new home of UCLA men’s and women’s soccer. Photo credit: https://uclabruins.com

4. University of California, Los Angeles (UCLA)

UCLA’s men’s and women’s soccer programs have both been highly successful, with numerous alumni making waves in professional soccer. On the men's side, players like Carlos Bocanegra, who captained the USMNT, and Cobi Jones, the most capped player in U.S. history, both honed their skills at UCLA before embarking on successful international and club careers.

UCLA’s women's program has also produced stars, including USWNT members Abby Dahlkemper and Sam Mewis. The school’s commitment to excellence on the field has made it one of the top soccer programs in the country, consistently producing professional talent.

The lowdown

The journey to professional soccer often starts with a university sports scholarship, and the schools listed above have a track record of developing some of the world’s best players. Whether it’s the tactical education at Stanford, the powerhouse programs of UNC, or the balanced development approach at UVA, these universities offer scholarships that provide a direct path to the pros. Aspiring players looking for top-tier development should have these institutions on their radar.