For student-athletes worldwide, securing a sports scholarship to study in the United States is a life-changing opportunity. These scholarships provide financial assistance while allowing athletes to train at great facilities, compete at a high level, and receive a quality education. With the U.S. being a global leader in collegiate sports, scholarships are highly competitive, but they can open doors to professional careers and long-term academic success.
In this article, we will focus on two of the most sought-after sports for scholarships: football (soccer) and basketball. These sports attract international talent and provide many opportunities for student-athletes to pursue their dreams.
Football (Soccer) Scholarships
The Growing Popularity of Soccer in the U.S.
Soccer, known as “football” in most parts of the world, has grown tremendously in the U.S. over the past few decades. With the expansion of Major League Soccer (MLS) and increased global interest, American universities have invested heavily in their soccer programs.
Unlike American football, which is primarily played by domestic athletes, college soccer teams actively recruit international talent. Universities seek skilled players from Europe, Latin America, and Africa, where soccer is a dominant sport. This makes soccer one of the best sports for international students looking to earn a scholarship in the U.S.
How Do Soccer Scholarships Work?
Soccer scholarships are available at different levels, including:
- NCAA Division I and II – These programs offer full-ride and partial scholarships, covering tuition, housing, meals, and other expenses.
- NAIA and NJCAA – These institutions provide scholarships for talented players and offer a stepping stone to NCAA programs.
While the competition is high, international players with strong technical ability, tactical awareness, and competitive experience stand a good chance of earning scholarships.
What Coaches Look For in Soccer Scholarship Applicants
- Strong technical skills – Passing, dribbling, shooting, and first touch are important.
- Tactical intelligence – Understanding game strategy and positioning.
- Competitive experience – Playing in national youth teams or top club academies increases chances.
- Highlight video – A well-edited video showcasing match performance is essential.
- Academic performance – Meeting eligibility requirements for GPA and standardized tests (SAT, ACT, TOEFL for non-native speakers).
If you’re an international soccer player looking for an opportunity in the U.S., it’s essential to build a strong athletic and academic profile.
Basketball Scholarships
Why is Basketball One of the Most Competitive Scholarship Sports?
Basketball is deeply ingrained in American culture, with college basketball tournaments like March Madness drawing millions of viewers each year. The U.S. is home to the best basketball development system in the world, producing NBA legends such as Michael Jordan, LeBron James, and Stephen Curry.
Given the sport’s massive popularity, basketball scholarships are among the most competitive. Thousands of high school and international players compete for limited spots on college teams, making it essential for athletes to stand out.
Scholarship Opportunities for Basketball Players
- NCAA Division I – Full-ride scholarships covering all major expenses.
- NCAA Division II – Partial scholarships combined with other financial aid.
- NAIA and NJCAA – Great options for players looking to develop before transferring to NCAA programs.
Unlike soccer, where international players are in high demand, basketball scholarships are more limited for non-U.S. athletes. However, exceptionally talented international players can still secure opportunities if they meet the physical and skill requirements.
What Coaches Look For in Basketball Scholarship Applicants
- Height and athleticism – Coaches prioritize players with strong physical attributes.
- Technical skills – Shooting, ball handling, defense, and passing.
- Basketball IQ – Decision-making, teamwork, and court vision.
- Game footage – Highlight videos demonstrating game performance under pressure.
- Leadership and discipline – Coaches seek athletes with a strong work ethic and commitment to training.
If you are an aspiring basketball player, developing your skills and gaining exposure through tournaments or recruiting showcases is key to earning a scholarship.
Other Popular Sports for Scholarships in the U.S.
While soccer and basketball are two of the most popular sports, student-athletes should also consider other disciplines that offer strong scholarship opportunities, including:
- American Football – The most well-funded college sport in the U.S., offering thousands of full scholarships annually.
- Tennis – Many U.S. universities recruit top international players for their tennis teams.
- Swimming & Diving – Another sport where international athletes can find strong scholarship opportunities.
- Baseball & Softball – Popular sports with substantial scholarship funding.
How SIS Scholarships Can Help You
Finding the right scholarship can be overwhelming, especially for international students unfamiliar with the American recruitment system. At SIS Scholarships, we specialize in connecting student-athletes with U.S. universities that offer sports scholarships.
Our network includes top NCAA, NAIA, and NJCAA programs, helping students find the best opportunities based on their athletic and academic profiles.
Many of our student-athletes have successfully secured scholarships and are now competing at the collegiate level in the U.S. You can read their stories here.
If you are an aspiring student-athlete looking for opportunities in the U.S., contact us today to learn more about how we can help you achieve your dreams.
