numbers, data, facts

soccer in the USA

soccer in the USA

Your goals:
The college soccer system in the USA offers young talent the opportunity to combine athletic and academic excellence. With renowned universities and professional training programs, players can optimally shape their athletic and professional futures – all the way to a professional career.

We make it possible:
Scholarbook is the premier resource for aspiring female college soccer players. With over 4,200 successful placements and leading expertise, we offer a team of top experts like Elmar Bolowich and Jonas Westmeyer. Our track record: Over 20 players in the MLS, national talents, and students at elite universities like Harvard, Yale, and Duke.

Unsere Kompetenz:
Zuverlässiger Rundum-Service.

Unser Anspruch:
Passgenaue Vermittlung.

Unser Team:
Partnerschaftlich, sportlich, international.

500

+

female soccer players placed

15

+

former college soccer players on the team

3

x

showcase per year

20

+

players have made the leap into professional soccer

Politik & Einreise? Kein Risiko – dein Sportstipendium steht!

Neue US-Politik?
Dein Weg ins College
bleibt sicher!

Neue US-Politik?
Dein Weg ins
College bleibt sicher!

Erfahre mehr

Sportstipendien: Vollkommen unabhängig von der Politik
Einreisebestimmungen: Keine Veränderungen
Fördermöglichkeiten: Werden sogar besser!

Check your chances now in just a few minutes!

Your path to a soccer scholarship

Your path to a soccer scholarship

die-scholarbook

Our Tryout Trainings

The Scholarbook
showcase

  • Regularly 20+ coaches on-site
  • Several hundred participants per showcase
  • Games, skill sessions, and drills

Request date now!

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References

Our players and their careers

Our players and their careers

We've already accompanied female soccer players from a wide variety of backgrounds on their journey to the USA. Whether they're focused on their sport, pursuing an academic career, or simply wanting to have an unforgettable time – we find the right university and the ideal environment for every player to achieve their goals!

Athleten und Athletinnen von unterschiedlichsten Hintergründen haben wir schon in die USA begleitet. Ob mit sportlichem Fokus, akademischem Fokus oder einfach um eine gute Zeit zu haben. Für jeden und jede finden wir die passende Uni!

Nele Raap

Through Scholarbook, I received an athletic scholarship to the USA and will be playing soccer and studying business management at Loyola University Maryland starting in August. Annika Schmidt gave me excellent support and also helped me with the English test. Thank you – highly recommended!

University:

Loyola University Maryland

Achievements:

• WFV U17 Cup Winner 2022• Starting all games as a sophomore

Through Scholarbook, I received an athletic scholarship to the USA and will be playing soccer and studying business management at Loyola University Maryland starting in August. Annika Schmidt gave me excellent support and also helped me with the English test. Thank you – highly recommended!

Emelie Kobler

Going to America to play college soccer was the best decision of my life. Sports are more valued here, and it's easier to combine studying and soccer. I've grown a lot during this time and would do it again anytime – an incredible experience!

University:

University of Alabama / University of Louisiana Monroe

Achievements:

• NCAA semifinal appearance• Former U19 national team player for Austria

Going to America to play college soccer was the best decision of my life. Sports are more valued here, and it's easier to combine studying and soccer. I've grown a lot during this time and would do it again anytime – an incredible experience!

Jenny Hipp

During her time in the USA, Jenny played soccer at the University of Massachusetts (UMass). There, she was a standout midfielder for the UMass women's team and earned numerous awards. She was named to the All-Atlantic 10 team multiple times and even received the Atlantic 10 Midfielder of the Year award in 2018.

University:

University of Massachussetts Amherst

Achievements:

Player for RB Leipzig in the Women's Bundesliga

During her time in the USA, Jenny played soccer at the University of Massachusetts (UMass). There, she was a standout midfielder for the UMass women's team and earned numerous awards. She was named to the All-Atlantic 10 team multiple times and even received the Atlantic 10 Midfielder of the Year award in 2018.

ALIX Maechler

Alix Maechler began her career at Grasshopper Club Zurich. A left-footed player, she impressed early on the pitch and made her professional debut for the senior team at just 15 years old. She was also a member of the Swiss U16 and U17 national teams. Since August 2024, Alix has played for the Harvard Crimson and is working toward a degree from one of the world's most prestigious universities.

University:

Harvard University

Achievements:

-

Alix Maechler began her career at Grasshopper Club Zurich. A left-footed player, she impressed early on the pitch and made her professional debut for the senior team at just 15 years old. She was also a member of the Swiss U16 and U17 national teams. Since August 2024, Alix has played for the Harvard Crimson and is working toward a degree from one of the world's most prestigious universities.

Anna Aehling

Before transferring to Indiana University, Anna Aehling played for FSV Gütersloh in the 2nd Bundesliga, reaching the quarterfinals of the DFB-Pokal with the team. She also represented Germany at the U17 and U19 levels at two European Championships and one World Championship. During her time at Indiana, she was named to the All-Conference Team twice and the All-Rookie Team once. Since 2022, she has played for Bundesliga club Eintracht Frankfurt and played in the Champions League qualifiers last season.

University:

Indiana University

Achievements:

Player at Eintracht Frankfurt in the Women's Bundesliga

Before transferring to Indiana University, Anna Aehling played for FSV Gütersloh in the 2nd Bundesliga, reaching the quarterfinals of the DFB-Pokal with the team. She also represented Germany at the U17 and U19 levels at two European Championships and one World Championship. During her time at Indiana, she was named to the All-Conference Team twice and the All-Rookie Team once. Since 2022, she has played for Bundesliga club Eintracht Frankfurt and played in the Champions League qualifiers last season.

Chaima Khammar

Realizing my dream with Scholarbook was the best decision I could have made. Everything went smoothly, and I could always rely on the team. The showcase was excellently organized and a lot of fun. The consultants were always available to answer any questions I had. Kudos to Scholarbook! They are the best agency for sports scholarships!

University:

University of Massachusetts Lowell/ University of Hawaii

Achievements:

• Promotion with 1. FC Köln to the
1. Bundesliga
• U-15 German national team
• Tunisian senior national team

Mit Scholarbook meinen Traum zu verwirklichen, war die beste Entscheidung, die ich treffen konnte. Alles lief reibungslos, und ich konnte mich immer auf das Team verlassen. Das Showcase war hervorragend organisiert und machte viel Spaß. Bei Fragen standen die Berater jederzeit zur Verfügung. Respekt an Scholarbook! Sie sind die beste Agentur für Sportstipendien!

Our female footballers in an interview

Student Athlete Stories

Be inspired by our athletes and hear what they have to say about studying and living in the USA

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Meet the Team

the Scholarbook experts for your soccer scholarship

Get to know a selection of our team and their power performances

Unlike many other agencies that rely on a single point of contact to manage the entire complex placement process alone, Scholarbook relies on specialized expert teams for each individual step. At the same time, our clients are assigned a personal athlete manager who focuses entirely on their unique wishes and needs. This ensures optimal and tailored support.

Jonas Westmeyer

Head of Soccer Department

Managed 20+ showcases
NCAA Elite 8
5+ years of experience in player mediation

Dominic Abdel-Ahad

Athlete Manager

100+ mediated players
5 years as a youth player at Fortuna Düsseldorf
Went to the USA through Scholarbook
5 years of college soccer (NCAA & NAIA)
Dual Bachelor's and Master's degree

Annika Schmidt

Athlete Manager

150+ mediated athletes
Managed 20+ showcases
Former Bundesliga player
ehemalige Bundesligaspielerin
ehemalige Bundesligaspielerin

Linda Grimminger

Athlete Manager

70+ mediated athletes
Studied in New York and New Jersey for 5 years
Personally went to the USA 6 years ago as a Scholarbook client
Selbst den Weg in die USA vor 6 Jahren als Kundin mit Scholarbook gegangen
Selbst den Weg in die USA vor 6 Jahren als Kundin mit Scholarbook gegangen
Selbst den Weg in die USA vor 6 Jahren als Kundin mit Scholarbook gegangen

Marah Tayeh

Placer

115+ mediated athletes
Former Bundesliga player
Currently plays for Borussia Dortmund
Born and raised in the USA

Marlon Buck

Soccer Expert

400+ mediated players
Was a student-athlete in New York, Miami, and San Diego
Personally took the path through Scholarbook as a client seven years ago
Selbst den Weg über Scholarbook vor sieben Jahren als Kunde gegangen
Selbst den Weg über Scholarbook vor sieben Jahren als Kunde gegangen

Our expertise teams

The right team for every step

Unlike many other agencies that rely on a single point of contact to manage the entire complex placement process alone, Scholarbook relies on specialized expert teams for each individual step. At the same time, our clients are assigned a personal athlete manager who focuses entirely on their unique wishes and needs. This ensures optimal and tailored support.

University Application Experts Total number of experts: 7

To ensure that the long path to your scholarship isn't hindered by formalities, our experts handle the university application process and ensure that you receive your confirmation of enrollment on time.

Carolin Bothe


Celine  Ritter

Julian  Berkenbusch

Lindi Magwaca

2,300+ applications submitted
Applied to 758 different universities
20 successfully completed Ivy League applications
2,300+ applications submitted
Applied to 758 different universities
20 successfully completed Ivy League applications

Visa Experts

The final step before you can finally pack your bags is your visa appointment. Even the smallest mistakes can lead to significant delays. To ensure this doesn't happen, our experienced visa team will thoroughly and reliably prepare you for your appointment at the US embassy, so everything runs smoothly.

Belinda May

Naira Tchintcharauli

Margaux Verger Gourson

Belinda May

Naira Tchintcharauli

Margaux Verger Gourson

600 visa appointments per year
Appointments in 23 countries (including Austria, Azerbaijan, Australia, France, Germany, South Africa)
Visa applications completed on average within 4 days
600 visa appointments per year
Appointments in 23 countries (including Austria, Azerbaijan, Australia, France, Germany, South Africa)
Visa applications completed on average within 4 days

Registration Team

In order to compete for your university, you must be eligible to start with the NCAA/NAIA. Small mistakes during registration can lead to disqualification. To ensure everything runs smoothly at this crucial step, our registration team is here to support you. They also take care of your test registrations, ensuring you complete all the necessary exams on time to study in the USA.

Katharina Keilich

Naira Tchintcharauli

Lukas Englich

2,700+ NCAA / NAIA Registrations
3,200+ SAT Registrations
3,300+ Duolingo Test Registrations
1,800+ Other Test Registrations (e.g., TOEFL, ACT, GED)
2,700+ NCAA / NAIA Registrations
3,200+ SAT Registrations
3,300+ Duolingo Test Registrations
1,800+ Other Test Registrations (e.g., TOEFL, ACT, GED)

Experts in the USA

Almost all of our employees were student-athletes in the USA themselves. Some of them are still living their American Dream on-site, while others are even native Americans.

Justus Meier

Marlon Großmann

Patricia Strunk

Justus Meier

Marlon Großmann

Patricia Strunk

Justus Meier

Marlon Großmann

Patricia Strunk

In overview

Our services & packages at a glance

As a market leader, we offer you the most comprehensive and professional service for your journey to the USA.

At first glance, our service packages may seem more expensive than those of our competitors. However, when you take a closer look, you will realize that many of the external costs are already included with us.

These include, for example, costs for tests, your visa, various registrations, and much more.

With other providers, these costs are not included and are often hidden from you before signing the contract.

Standard

5.750 €

“The most holistic consulting and the strongest network in the industry.”

1. Upon the start of the collaboration
2.000 €

2. Upon promotion to all relevant colleges
2.000 €

3. Upon decision for a university
1.750 €

“The most holistic consulting and the strongest network in the industry.”

Support & Placement

Included external costs: 400 €

Creation of a professional athlete profile and editing of the application video
Fees of 400 € included

Promotion to all relevant colleges

Assistance with communication with coaches and selection of the right offer

Assistance with all registrations and applications

Included external costs: 400 €

Hide details

Additional Costs & Tasks

Please note:
Since most of the tasks outside of the promotion process in the Standard package are handled by you, the athletes and families, you will need to account for additional costs and workload.

Please note:
Since most of the tasks outside of the promotion process in the Standard package are handled by you, the athletes and families, you will need to account for additional costs and workload.

Additional Costs:
Approximately 3.550€

Additional Time Investment:
Approximately 60 hours

Professio-nal

9.500 €

“The most comfortable and safest way to the USA, as we cover absolutely all fees for you.”

1. Upon the start of the collaboration
3.000 €

2. Upon promotion to all relevant colleges
3.000 €

3. Upon decision for a university
3.500 €

“The most comfortable and safest way to the USA, as we cover absolutely all fees for you.”

Support & Placement

Included external costs: 400 €

Including all services from the standard- package

Included external costs: 400 €

Inkludierte externe Kosten: 400 €

Administrative Processes

Included external costs: 2.855 €

Basis for the coaches' inquiries

Kostenlose Teilnahme an einem Showcases in der DACH-Region 
inkl. Gebühren von 150€

Dreh und Bearbeitung des Bewerbervideos durch professionellen Videografen bei Showcase-Teilnahmez
inkl. Gebühren von 400€

Korrektur des Bewerbungsvideos durch unseren Videografen
inkl. Gebühren von 200€

Durchführung der Anmeldung beim Collegesportverband
inkl. Gebühren von 160€

Offer and application phase

Zugang zur Scholarbook Testplattform zur optimalen Testvorbereitung
inkl. Gebühren von 250€

Durchführung der Anmeldung aller relevanten Tests und Umbuchungen
inkl. Gebühren von 520€

Evaluierung aller relevanten Zeugnisse
inkl. Gebühren von 500€

Ein Admission Expert übernimmt die Unibewerbung bis zur Studienplatzbestätigung
inkl. Gebühren von 75€

After receiving the scholarship contract

Durchführung des Visums-Antrags
inkl. Gebühren von 600€

Durchführung der Anmeldung beim Collegesportverband
Gebühren von 160€ inkl.

Evaluierung aller relevanten Zeugnisse
Gebühren von 500€ inkl.

Ein Admission Expert übernimmt die Unibewerbung bis zur Studienplatzbestätigung  
Gebühren von 75€ inkl.

Included external costs: 2.855 €

Hide details

With comparable agencies, you often only receive support with the university application (including fees) and assistance with the visa application (without fees). However, the final processing remains your responsibility.

Zusätzliche Kosten:
ca. 2.400€

Zusätzlicher Zeitaufwand:
ca. 60 Stunden

Bitte beachtet:
Da alle Arbeitsschritte abseits des Promotion-Prozesses im Standard Paket zu weiten Teilen von euch Sportler*innen und Familien erledigt werden, müsst ihr zusätzliche Kosten und Arbeitsaufwand einplanen.

With us, everything is covered:
We handle the entire process for you – from the complete university application to the visa application. Our service includes all the necessary steps, including all applicable fees.

all-star

12.000 €

“The best package in the industry with the highest chances of success and the most long-term support.”

1. Upon the start of the collaboration
4.000 €

2. Upon promotion to all relevant colleges
4.000 €

3. Upon decision for a university
4.000 €

“The best package in the industry with the highest chances of success and the most long-term support.”

Support & Placement

Included external costs: 400 €

Including all services from the standard- package

Included external costs: 400 €

Inkludierte externe Kosten: 400 €

Administrative Processes

Included external costs: 2.855 €

Including all services from the profi- package

Included external costs: 2.855 €

Inkludierte externe Kosten: 400 €

Premium Services

Included external costs: 6.250 €

Chance optimization

Free participation in 3 showcases in the DACH region‍Fees of 300 € included

Analysis and optimization of the video material by professional video analysts‍Fees of 400 € included

Intensive courses for test preparation
Fees of 750 € included

Registration for a retake of the college admission tests 
Fees of 200 € included

Long-term support

Free organization of a university transfer during studies in the U.S.
Fees of 4.000 € included

Guaranteed 5-year support until graduation

Guaranteed internship at Scholarbook after graduation

Ein Admission Expert übernimmt die Unibewerbung bis zur Studienplatzbestätigung  
Gebühren von 75€ inkl.

Extra Komfort

Extra comfort

Translation of all relevant transcripts by certified translators
Fees of 600 € included

Durchführung der Anmeldung beim Collegesportverband
Gebühren von 160€ inkl.

Evaluierung aller relevanten Zeugnisse
Gebühren von 500€ inkl.

Ein Admission Expert übernimmt die Unibewerbung bis zur Studienplatzbestätigung  
Gebühren von 75€ inkl.

Included external costs: 6.250 €

Hide details

Bei vergleichbaren Agenturen erhaltet Ihr oft nur Unterstützung bei der Universitäts-bewerbung (inklusive Gebühren) und Hilfestellung bei der Visumsbeantragung (ohne Gebühren). Die finale Abwicklung bleibt jedoch in Eurer Verantwortung.

Zusätzliche Kosten:
ca. 2.400€

Zusätzlicher Zeitaufwand:
ca. 60 Stunden

Bitte beachtet:
Da alle Arbeitsschritte abseits des Promotion-Prozesses im Standard Paket zu weiten Teilen von euch Sportler*innen und Familien erledigt werden, müsst ihr zusätzliche Kosten und Arbeitsaufwand einplanen.

Mit uns ist alles abgedeckt:
Wir übernehmen für Euch die gesamte Abwicklung – von der vollständigen Universitätsbewerbung bis hin zur Beantragung des Visums. Unser Service umfasst sämtliche erforderlichen Schritte inklusive aller anfallenden Gebühren.

From the initial consultation to departure

The path to your scholarship

Abflug-1

The Start

Choose one of our service packages and sign the mediation contract

Review the first video material

step-2

Laying the Foundations

Getting to know your personal athlete manager

Collecting video material and creating the athlete profile

Registration with the sports federation

Test preparation

Abflug-3

AFTER PROMOTION

Contact with coaches

Planning and taking the tests

Translation of certificates

Evaluation of offers

Gathering concrete scholarship offers

DECISION

Abflug-4

UNIVERSITY APPLICATION

Signing the scholarship contract

Submitting application documents

Confirmation of acceptance

Abflug-5

VISA AND DEPARTURE

Up to 6 weeks before departure:

Apply for and attend the embassy appointment

Book the flight

Receive the visa

PACK YOUR BAGS AND DEPART FOR THE USA!

Abflug-1

The Start

Choose one of our service packages and sign the mediation contract

Review the first video material

step-2

Laying the Foundations

Getting to know your personal athlete manager

Collecting video material and creating the athlete profile

Registration with the sports federation

Test preparation

Abflug-3

AFTER PROMOTION

Contact with coaches

Planning and taking the tests

Translation of certificates

Evaluation of offers

Gathering concrete scholarship offers

DECISION

Abflug-4

UNIVERSITY APPLICATION

Signing the scholarship contract

Submitting application documents

Confirmation of acceptance

Abflug-5

VISA AND DEPARTURE

Up to 6 weeks before departure:

Apply for and attend the embassy appointment

Book the flight

Receive the visa

PACK YOUR BAGS AND DEPART FOR THE USA!

FAQS

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the NCAA?

The National Collegiate Athletic Association (NCAA) is the largest college sports association in the USA. It includes around 1,100 American and Canadian universities. The NCAA oversees the eligibility of each athlete and thoroughly checks whether they meet the requirements for a playing license. It also establishes the rules, guidelines, and regulations for all NCAA-sanctioned sports.

How is the college sports system structured?

The college sports system in the USA is divided into three major associations: NCAA, NAIA, and NJCAA.

NCAA:
The NCAA consists of three divisions, with Division I being the largest and generally the most competitive. This division attracts top athletes, offers the highest scholarships, and broadcasts games and competitions during prime time on TV. Recently, college athletes in the U.S. have been allowed to earn additional income through sponsorship and advertising deals, making Division I athletes highly attractive to companies.Division II and III have slightly lower competition levels but still offer highly professional training conditions and a balanced combination of sports and academics.

NAIA:
The NAIA is a smaller sports association with a level of play comparable to NCAA Division II. The eligibility requirements differ from those of the NCAA, making it particularly appealing to international students with unconventional academic backgrounds.‍

NJCAA:
The NJCAA consists of community colleges, which are two-year institutions. Many young athletes use them as a stepping stone to transfer to larger four-year universities.

How long does the season last in the USA?

The seasons of the different sports are divided into the three periods: fall, winter, and spring.

Fall (September to December, depending on how far one advances in the NCAA tournament):

- American Football
- Soccer
- Volleyball (Women)
- Cross Country
- Field Hockey
- Golf
- Water Polo (Men)

Winter (November to March):
-Basketball
-Wrestling
-Ice Hockey
-Swimming
-Track and Field (Indoor Season)
-Bowling
-Gymnastics
-Fencing
-Skiing

Spring (February to June):
-Baseball
-Softball
-Lacrosse
-Track and Field (Outdoor Season)
-Tennis
-Golf
-Rowing
-Volleyball (Men)
-Water Polo (Women)

What does a typical day as a student-athlete look like?

Your daily routine as a student-athlete is highly structured. Usually, the day starts with a training session in the morning, followed by recovery. This could include an ice bath, a session with the physiotherapists, or a healthy meal with teammates. There might also be a video session to prepare for the next game or competition.In the late morning and afternoon, you'll attend most of your lectures and spend time working on projects, studying for exams, or taking advantage of the free tutoring services available to athletes.In the evening, you'll have enough free time to go out for dinner with your teammates, watch series, or support other sports teams at their games or competitions.This is, of course, just an example of a typical daily routine – it’s also possible that you’ll have most of your lectures in the morning and training in the afternoon. How university and sports are balanced depends on many different factors.However, no matter how your day is structured, your class schedule is always carefully aligned with your training plan. This ensures that conflicts between academics and athletics are effectively avoided.

How can I combine academics and sports?

The system in the USA is designed so that student-athletes can succeed in both sports and academics without having to make sacrifices in either area. Athletes have priority when selecting courses each semester to ensure they can schedule their classes around training sessions.During the season, it is common for athletes to miss lectures or even exams due to away games or competitions. However, professors are informed of these absences before the semester begins and make every effort to help athletes keep up with their coursework. They offer adjusted deadlines for projects, provide notes for missed seminars, and arrange tutoring sessions with specialized tutors if needed.

What is the duration of a scholarship?

Officially, scholarships are always awarded for one academic year. However, it is common for the scholarship to be automatically renewed each year until you have used up your four years of eligibility, as coaches plan long-term with their recruits and train them over several years. One advantage of the scholarship not being set in stone for four years is the opportunity to renegotiate with the coach and potentially secure even more financial support.

Can I lose my scholarship?

You cannot lose your scholarship due to an injury, as NCAA regulations protect affected athletes in such situations. However, there are other reasons why a scholarship can be revoked. These include poor academic performance, violations of team or university conduct rules, or even criminal activities. Scholarships are rarely withdrawn due to poor athletic performance because coaches understand that occasional slumps are a normal part of sports.

What can I study in the USA?

American universities generally offer the same fields of study as in Germany. However, it is important to note that not every university offers all study programs. That’s why an essential part of our service is helping you choose the right university to ensure you find the one that best matches your goals and interests.

Wird ein Abschluss von einer US-Universität in Europa anerkannt?

Yes, in general, bachelor's and master's degrees from U.S. universities are recognized in Europe. However, it is important that the respective institution is certified by a recognized accreditation body – which is the case for most colleges in the U.S.
Depending on the field of study, there may be differences in the curriculum or general course structure, such as in medical studies. As a result, additional exams or certifications may be required to work in this profession in Europe.To be sure, your specific case can be reviewed by the relevant recognition authority if necessary.

Isn't it difficult to complete the entire degree in English?

This is a concern for many of our clients. However, based on our experience, we can say that your English skills improve significantly within just a few weeks since you are constantly exposed to the language. The university assesses your basic language proficiency through a preliminary language test before your studies begin. If you pass the test, you should have no issues. If you still struggle to keep up in class, you can take advantage of the free tutoring services available on campus.

Can I start my studies in Germany and continue them in the USA?

This is generally possible, but we want to highlight potential issues that may arise during the transfer process.

1. Academic: You must ensure that your academic credits are recognized by the U.S. university. Not all credits are automatically accepted, as requirements and curricula may vary. This means you might have to retake certain courses.

2. Athletic: Typically, student-athletes receive eight semesters of eligibility, which must be used within ten semesters (one academic year can be paused due to injuries or other significant reasons). However, the ten-semester eligibility countdown begins as soon as you start your studies. If you have already begun your studies in Germany and wish to continue in the U.S., you may not be able to use the full eight semesters of athletic eligibility.Important: Your academic and athletic history will be thoroughly reviewed by the NCAA or NAIA during the application process. Therefore, it cannot be generally determined how these factors will specifically apply to your case.

How do the German and American university systems differ?

Here are some notable differences at a glance:

1. The standard duration for a bachelor's degree in the USA is 8 semesters (compared to 6 semesters at German universities). However, it is possible to shorten the program to 7 or even 6 semesters by taking more than the average number of credits per semester.

2. At American universities, there is no fixed numerus clausus (NC) like in Germany. Instead, colleges take a holistic approach to evaluating applicants by considering academic grades, admission test scores, social engagement or extracurricular activities, the personal essay, and recommendation letters from teachers or other trusted individuals.

3. You don’t have to be completely sure about your field of study before starting university. You have until the end of your fourth semester to choose a so-called major. The first semesters are used to complete the General Education (GenEd) courses, which are mandatory for all students, and to explore subjects that interest you. If you already know your intended major, you can start taking subject-specific courses right away, but you will still need to complete the GenEd courses.

4. The learning environment is much more personal than in Germany. While lecture halls here often accommodate several hundred students, classes in the U.S. typically have only 15–20 students on average. This allows professors to know your name, strengths, weaknesses, and individual needs. Lectures are also far more interactive, featuring open discussions between students and a strong emphasis on practical learning through projects, excursions, and often mandatory internships.

Where will I live, sleep, and eat?

You can think of American college campuses as small towns. Most students live on campus in dorms, usually with 1-3 roommates. They eat in the dining halls (cafeterias) and train in the college facilities. Additionally, there are other important places on campus, such as a small supermarket, a medical clinic, a post office, and, depending on the size of the university, even cafés, restaurants, and shops. Everything is within walking distance or accessible by shuttle buses, so having a car is not necessarily required.

When and how long are the semester breaks in the USA?

Summer break: Mid-May to mid-August

Thanksgiving break: Around 1 week during Thanksgiving

Winter break: Mid December to mid January

Spring break: 1 week in March

What are the academic requirements to study in the USA with a sports scholarship?

To obtain eligibility to compete in American college leagues, you must have completed either a specialized high school diploma or a general high school diploma. If you are already studying, it is possible to transfer credits you have already earned. To qualify for a sports scholarship, you need to pay attention to specific regulations regarding age limits and the number of semesters already completed. In Division 1, the age limit is 25 years. In Division 2 and the NAIA, there is no age limit. In all leagues, you can have completed a total of 8 full-time semesters of study. For example, if you have completed 4 full-time semesters, whether in Germany or in the USA, you would have 4 semesters left to start at a university. The NCAA verifies the eligibility of each athlete in the NCAA divisions. Other factors that determine whether an athlete qualifies for eligibility include SAT and Duolingo/TOEFL results, as well as high school graduation grades. The NCAA also checks if an athlete meets the "Amateur Status" requirements according to their regulations.

Can I also study in the USA with a secondary school diploma?

Basically, it is not impossible to study in the USA without a (specialized) high school diploma, but it makes the process a bit more difficult. However, if the conditions are right, you have the following two options:

1. Community Colleges: The admission requirements at community colleges are not as strict as at regular universities. You can study there for 4 semesters and earn an Associates Degree, which you can then use as a foundation to apply to a 4-year university. You will start directly in the 3rd year, so the overall duration of the degree remains the same at 4 years.

2. GED Test: Alternatively, you can take the GED (General Educational Development Test). It assesses your knowledge in the areas of mathematics, reading, writing, social studies, and science. If you earn the GED, you meet the admission requirements for many—though not all—American universities.

What is the SAT test?

The Scholastic Aptitude Test (SAT) is a standardized test used by many colleges in the USA for student admissions. It consists of a mathematics section and an English section, with the English tasks divided into Reading and Writing. Each of the two sections can score up to 800 points, making the maximum possible total score 1600 points. This test is an important part of the admissions process. Along with other factors such as GPA, extracurricular activities, and recommendation letters, it helps the admissions office assess the academic suitability and potential of an applicant.

What is the Duolingo Test?

The Duolingo English Test (DET) is a standardized language test that assesses the English skills of non-native speakers. The test consists of various questions in reading comprehension, listening comprehension, speaking, and writing, as well as a video interview and a written sample. The results are scored on a scale of 10 to 160 points.

Do I need to take both tests, or is one enough?

Wir würden dir gerne die Last der beiden Tests abnehmen, aber du musst sie leider beide absolvieren. Aber keine Sorge: unsere Test Prep Teachers werden dich optimal auf beide Tests vorbereiten, damit du die besten Ergebnisse rausholen kannst!

Why do universities offer scholarships?

Sports scholarships serve as an incentive to attract talented athletes to the university. They enhance the performance of college sports teams and contribute to their success in national and regional competitions. When sports teams succeed, it boosts the overall reputation of the university and attracts not only the best athletes but also many "regular" students.

Where does the funding for scholarships come from?

Especially in major sports like American football and basketball, universities generate significant revenue through ticket sales, merchandising, and broadcasting rights. These earnings are then distributed across various sports and reinvested into the sports system.

How is the amount of a scholarship determined?

A scholarship mainly depends on your athletic level. The coach has a specific budget each year that they can distribute as they see fit. Depending on how interested they are in you, they might offer you, for example, 60%, 80%, or even 100% of the costs. Additionally, American universities offer academic scholarships to reward strong academic performance, which are awarded in addition to sports scholarships. These are mainly based on SAT, Duolingo/TOEFL scores, and school grades.

What costs, not covered by the sports scholarship, may arise on-site?

Sports scholarships cover all sports-specific costs, regardless of the amount. This includes any training equipment, travel and hotel expenses for away games/competitions, as well as meals during athletic trips. Access to physiotherapists and other sports medical care is also included with the scholarship.

Everything outside of sports often depends on the amount of the scholarship. Primarily, the scholarship is used to cover tuition fees, as well as living and meal costs. As a result, you may need to cover expenses for textbooks, additional school activities like excursions, and of course, any personal expenses. Based on our experience, a pocket money allowance of around 200 euros, alongside continued child benefits, is usually sufficient.

Sometimes, health insurance is included in the sports scholarship, but sometimes it needs to be paid for separately. Whether the university accepts your German insurance in the form of international health insurance or if you need to take out the university’s own insurance is very individual. It's best to speak with the coach or someone from the admissions office about this.

An additional cost area that cannot be avoided is the flight to and from the USA. Therefore, try to look for flights as early as possible. Important: Be aware of the flight price trends, but only book once the visa has been issued! Our partner ABC Travel (https://www.abctravel.de/scholarbook) specializes in travel to the USA and is happy to assist you in finding affordable flight options.

How often and how long can my child come home?

The long holidays during which your child can come home are:

Summer Break: Mid-May to mid-August

Winter Break:
Mid-December to mid-January

Overall, you can have your child at home for about 4 months a year, which is likely more time together than a university study in a distant city in Germany. Additionally, you can visit your child in the USA at any time.

Will my child continue to receive child benefits in the USA?

Yes, that's no problem at all. However, the following rules apply:

1. The studies in the USA must be a first-degree education, and your child must be under 25 years old.

2. You must provide proof to the family benefits office in the form of a study certificate that your child is enrolled at an accredited educational institution. Your child can easily obtain such a certificate from the International Student Office.

3. You, as parents, must continue to live in Germany and pay taxes.

Can my child continue to receive half-orphan's pension in the USA?

Yes, this is also possible without any issues. The conditions are similar to those for child benefits. Make sure your child regularly requests the necessary study certificate. The half-orphan's pension can be transferred to either a German or American account. However, additional fees may apply for international transfers.

What happens in case of an injury? Is there professional medical help?

Unfortunately, injuries are a part of an athlete's life, but with good sports medical care, they can mostly be prevented or at least treated professionally. Since universities have very good financial resources, they can employ multiple physiotherapists who are responsible for both injury prevention and rehabilitation. Additionally, athletes receive supplementary health insurance that covers all medical costs resulting from a sports injury.

When do we need to apply for the passport?

The issuance of a new passport usually takes 3 to 6 weeks. However, as always, the earlier, the better, because without a passport, your child cannot, for example, attend the visa appointment. The cost of a new passport is €37.50.If you need it quickly, you can also apply for an express passport. It typically takes only 2 to 4 business days, but it costs a bit more (€69.50).

How do we pay the Scholarbook fee?

Die Gebühr für unseren Service bezahlen Sie ganz bequem per Überweisung auf unser deutsches Konto. Im Falle einer Rückerstattung werden wir das Geld auf selbiges zurück überweisen.

Wie ist das College-Sport System in den USA aufgebaut?

In der Regel trainieren die College Teams an sechs bis sieben Tagen pro Woche und absolvieren gemeinsam sechs bis neun Einheiten. Alter und Trainingserfahrung werden hierbei berücksichtigt und Umfänge und Intensitäten individuell angepasst.Wie du dir als Sportler sicherlich denken kannst, gibt es auch in den Vereinigten Staaten verschiedene Typen von Coaches. Demzufolge ist es umso wichtiger, dass sich die eigene Trainingsphilosophie mit den Vorstellungen des zukünftigen Trainers deckt. Dennoch kannst du davon ausgehen, dass du in absolut professionelle Hände kommen wirst. Während es in Deutschland nahezu keine hauptberuflichen Trainer gibt, werden die amerikanischen Trainer von der Universität bezahlt und können sich daher ganz der Entwicklung der Athleten widmen.

Wie laufen die Wettkämpfe in den USA ab?

In der Regel trainieren die College Teams an sechs bis sieben Tagen pro Woche und absolvieren gemeinsam sechs bis neun Einheiten. Alter und Trainingserfahrung werden hierbei berücksichtigt und Umfänge und Intensitäten individuell angepasst.Wie du dir als Sportler sicherlich denken kannst, gibt es auch in den Vereinigten Staaten verschiedene Typen von Coaches. Demzufolge ist es umso wichtiger, dass sich die eigene Trainingsphilosophie mit den Vorstellungen des zukünftigen Trainers deckt. Dennoch kannst du davon ausgehen, dass du in absolut professionelle Hände kommen wirst. Während es in Deutschland nahezu keine hauptberuflichen Trainer gibt, werden die amerikanischen Trainer von der Universität bezahlt und können sich daher ganz der Entwicklung der Athleten widmen.

Wie sieht ein typischer Tag als "Student Athlete" aus?

In der Regel trainieren die College Teams an sechs bis sieben Tagen pro Woche und absolvieren gemeinsam sechs bis neun Einheiten. Alter und Trainingserfahrung werden hierbei berücksichtigt und Umfänge und Intensitäten individuell angepasst.Wie du dir als Sportler sicherlich denken kannst, gibt es auch in den Vereinigten Staaten verschiedene Typen von Coaches. Demzufolge ist es umso wichtiger, dass sich die eigene Trainingsphilosophie mit den Vorstellungen des zukünftigen Trainers deckt. Dennoch kannst du davon ausgehen, dass du in absolut professionelle Hände kommen wirst. Während es in Deutschland nahezu keine hauptberuflichen Trainer gibt, werden die amerikanischen Trainer von der Universität bezahlt und können sich daher ganz der Entwicklung der Athleten widmen.

Wie ist das Training aufgebaut?

In der Regel trainieren die College Teams an sechs bis sieben Tagen pro Woche und absolvieren gemeinsam sechs bis neun Einheiten. Alter und Trainingserfahrung werden hierbei berücksichtigt und Umfänge und Intensitäten individuell angepasst.Wie du dir als Sportler sicherlich denken kannst, gibt es auch in den Vereinigten Staaten verschiedene Typen von Coaches. Demzufolge ist es umso wichtiger, dass sich die eigene Trainingsphilosophie mit den Vorstellungen des zukünftigen Trainers deckt. Dennoch kannst du davon ausgehen, dass du in absolut professionelle Hände kommen wirst. Während es in Deutschland nahezu keine hauptberuflichen Trainer gibt, werden die amerikanischen Trainer von der Universität bezahlt und können sich daher ganz der Entwicklung der Athleten widmen.

If you still have any questions after reviewing the frequently asked questions, feel free to contact us at: team@scholarbook.net

Soccer Podcast

College women's soccer in the USA

College-
Frauen-
fußball in
den USA

In this episode, we talk with Annika Schmidt about her athletic career and how her experiences in the USA are helping her help a new generation of players realize their dreams of receiving a scholarship. Also joining us is our Head of Soccer, Jonas Westmeyer, who has led our soccer department since graduating from Marshall University.

Listen now