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If you’re a UK player dreaming of playing college soccer in the United States, timing is everything. The recruiting process can start much earlier than many expect, and missing key windows can mean missing out on opportunities. If you’re chasing an American soccer scholarship UK players often dream about, following the right schedule will give you the best chance to succeed.

Here’s your month-by-month guide, starting two years before you plan to step onto a US college campus.

24 Months Out – Begin Your Research

Two years before enrolling, start learning about the US college soccer landscape. Understand the differences between NCAA, NAIA, and NJCAA, and decide which path might suit your playing ability, academic profile, and personal preferences.
• Research the typical academic requirements for each level.
• Explore potential universities and soccer programs.
• Start following teams and coaches on social media to get a feel for their culture.

This is also the time to get familiar with the rules surrounding USA soccer scholarships – how they’re awarded, how many are available per team, and the academic standards you’ll need to meet.

22 Months Out – Build Your Player Profile

Coaches will want to see who you are both on and off the pitch. Begin compiling:
• Match footage for your highlight reel.
• Playing statistics from recent seasons.
• Academic transcripts.
• References from coaches or teachers.

Make sure your profile clearly shows your position, height, preferred foot, achievements, and contact information. Even if you’re not sending it to coaches yet, having it ready will make future steps much easier.

20 Months Out – Improve Your Highlight Video

A professional, engaging highlight video can make or break your chances of securing a soccer scholarship in the US.
• Focus on high-quality clips that show your strengths.
• Keep it under 5 minutes.
• Include your name, graduation year, and contact details at the start and end.

This is also a good time to film fresh footage if you don’t have recent high-level matches recorded.

18 Months Out – Academic Preparation

Academic eligibility is crucial. For NCAA and NAIA programs, you’ll need to meet certain GPA and standardised test requirements.
• Register for the NCAA Eligibility Center or NAIA Eligibility Center.
• Begin preparing for the SAT or ACT if required.
• Stay on top of schoolwork to maintain strong grades.

Many players lose scholarship opportunities due to academic ineligibility – don’t let that be you.

16 Months Out – Initial Coach Contact

Start reaching out to coaches with your player profile and highlight video. Personalise each message – mention why you’re interested in their program and how you’d be a good fit.
• Keep emails short and professional.
• Include your highlight video link, CV, and academic details.
• Track all correspondence so you can follow up later.

Coaches at this stage are building their watchlists for future recruitment classes.

14 Months Out – Attend ID Camps and Showcases

Whenever possible, attend events where US coaches will be present. These could be in the UK or the US.
• College ID camps
• International showcases
• Invitation-only tournaments

Performing well at these events can fast-track your recruitment process.

12 Months Out – Shortlist and Narrow Down Options

By now, you should have a clear idea of which programs are showing interest. Narrow your list to 5–10 schools.
• Compare locations, facilities, academic programs, and costs.
• Consider whether you’d prefer a big city or a smaller college town.
• Review which programs can realistically offer you USA soccer scholarships based on your profile.

10 Months Out – Academic and Visa Preparation

If you haven’t yet, take the SAT or ACT. Finalise your academic records and make sure they’re ready for US universities.
Begin gathering documents needed for the student visa process (passport, financial proof, acceptance letters).

8 Months Out – Commit to a Program

At this stage, many players verbally commit to a school. Make sure you:
• Understand your scholarship offer (full or partial).
• Confirm what’s covered (tuition, accommodation, meals, etc.).
• Keep communicating with the coach and academic advisors.

6 Months Out – Final Preparations

Book your flights and secure your student visa. Arrange housing, set up a US bank account if possible, and make sure you’re physically prepared for pre-season.

3 Months Out – Pre-Season Training

Work on your fitness so you arrive in peak condition. College pre-seasons are intense, and being unprepared can hurt your chances of making an impact.

Arrival Month – Start Your Journey

Move onto campus, meet your teammates, and get ready for one of the most exciting experiences of your life. Remember, the hard work doesn’t stop – balancing academics and athletics will be key to making the most of your soccer scholarship opportunity.

Final Thoughts

The recruitment process for US football scholarships for UK students takes planning, persistence, and patience. By starting early and following this timeline, you’ll give yourself the best possible chance of securing a place at the right program for you.

If you’re ready to get started but want expert guidance through every step, College Scout USA can help. From building your profile to connecting with the right coaches, we’ve guided countless players to success in the US college soccer system.