"Is D1 better?" is the question we get asked most. The honest answer: the best fit is the programme where you'll play, develop and get a degree you want — and that's not always the biggest name.
NCAA Division I
The largest universities and, on average, the highest level. Big budgets, big crowds at some schools, and very competitive rosters.
- Scholarships: yes. Rules changed from the 2025–26 season, with many D1 schools moving from scholarship caps to roster limits. How much money is available still varies hugely between programmes.
- Recruiting rules: strict. Coaches generally can't start recruiting conversations until 15 June after a player's US "sophomore" year (around age 16).
- Eligibility: through the NCAA Eligibility Center: academic review of your GCSE/A-level (or equivalent) results and an amateurism check.
- Best for: high-level players with solid grades who are ready to fight for minutes.
NCAA Division II
A strong standard of football, often with more playing time for first-years than D1. Many UK and Irish players thrive here.
- Scholarships: yes, usually partial, shared across the squad.
- Eligibility: NCAA Eligibility Center, with slightly different academic standards from D1.
- Best for: good players who want a high level, real minutes and a balanced student life.
NCAA Division III
- Scholarships: no athletic scholarships, but many D3 schools offer substantial academic and merit aid that can bring costs right down.
- Best for: strong students who want competitive football alongside a top academic experience.
NAIA
Around 200+ smaller universities with a competitive standard. Several NAIA programmes are packed with international players.
- Scholarships: yes, usually partial and often combined with academic aid.
- Recruiting rules: more flexible. Coaches can talk to you earlier.
- Eligibility: through the NAIA Eligibility Center.
- Best for: players who want a smaller university, playing time and a faster recruiting process.
NJCAA (junior college)
Two-year colleges. Players often use junior college to improve their grades, get two seasons of US football, and then transfer to an NCAA or NAIA university.
- Scholarships: Division I junior colleges can offer full scholarships; Division II covers costs like tuition, fees and books; Division III offers no athletic aid.
- Best for: late developers, players whose grades need a boost, or anyone who wants a cheaper route into the US system.
How to decide
- Be honest about your level. Would you start, rotate or sit on the bench at this programme?
- Look at the course, not just the team. You'll be there four years, and the degree lasts a lifetime.
- Compare the real cost. Total cost per year after all athletic and academic aid.
- Talk to current players. Ask about the coach, playing time and how internationals settle in.
Not sure where you fit? That's exactly what our free evaluation is for.