Imagine charging down the field, ball in hand, weaving through opponents with the intensity of a professional, competing in matches across the country, and earning a university degree all at once.
This is college rugby in the USA—a thrilling fusion of athletic grit and academic pursuit that’s carving out a bold future.
Unlike most major college sports, men’s rugby operates outside the NCAA, thriving as one of the largest club sports with over 900 programs nationwide, governed by bodies like USA Rugby and National Collegiate Rugby (NCR).
Women’s rugby, however, is an NCAA Emerging Sport, with 27 varsity programs under NCAA oversight.
What are Rugby Scholarships?
Rugby scholarships are financial awards that help offset college costs, averaging $50,000 annually, covering tuition, housing, meals, books, and insurance.
While men’s rugby isn’t NCAA-sanctioned, many universities offer rugby scholarships through club budgets or institutional aid, often partial and based on skill. Women’s NCAA programs can offer up to 12 full or partial scholarships, per NCAA rules.
Understanding College Rugby in the USA
College rugby blends competition and academics, offering world-class facilities despite its non-NCAA status for men. Women’s rugby, an NCAA Emerging Sport since 2002, is on track for full championship status:
Definition and Experience: Picture dominating scrums or sprinting in 7s, forging bonds through travel.
Daily Life: Early practices, conditioning, and matches in fall (15s) or spring (7s), with travel.
Facilities: Quality fields, coaching, and support, often rivaling NCAA sports.
Key governing bodies and programs:
College Rugby divisions
Over 900 programs exist, with top colleges like Cal Berkeley (26 titles), BYU, Penn State, and women’s NCAA teams at Bowdoin and Dartmouth.
Eligibility: Men’s club scholarships vary by school; women’s NCAA programs require a 2.0 GPA and NCAA compliance. Men’s aid averages less than NCAA sports, per ScholarshipStats.
Insights: Men’s funding is growing with rugby’s rise; women’s NCAA scholarships (12 max) are split as needed.
Recruiting Standards and Evaluation
Coaches assess via:
Performance: Competitive experience in 15s/7s, club success (e.g., National Championships).
Physicality: Speed, strength, tackling ability.
Skills: Ball-handling, kicking, game IQ—standards vary by division (e.g., DIA vs. Small College).
Navigating the Recruitment Process with Vida Sports
The recruitment process is essential for securing rugby spots and rugby scholarships. Vida Sports offers a structured approach:
This process demands an early start—ideally by sophomore year—as coaches begin evaluating talent in 10th grade, with many rosters filled by junior year. Vida Sports provides ongoing support, from initial assessment to post-commitment, keeping you confident and prepared.
Conclusion: Key Points
College Rugby Overview: Thrives outside NCAA for men (900+ programs) and as an NCAA Emerging Sport for women (~27 programs), with schools like Cal, BYU, and Quinnipiac leading.
Rugby Scholarships: Club-funded for men, NCAA-structured for women, averaging $50,000 yearly.
Recruitment Process: Starts in sophomore year—evaluate, profile, connect, compete, visit, with Vida Sorts’ support.
Get Started Now
Our step-by-step recruitment process ensures you stand out to college coaches. With our expert recruiters and their extensive network, we guide you through every stage, so you can focus on what matters most: your sport.
Take the first step towards your U.S. college placement
Reach your potential with Vida Sports. Our expert recruiters and innovative platform streamline every step—from your highlight video to connecting with college coaches—so you can focus on your game.