Senior year

Making Your Decision

Senior year is the final stretch of your high school soccer journey and the time to put all your hard work into action. By now, you’ve been evaluated, communicated with coaches, visited campuses, and narrowed your college list. This year is about making informed decisions, submitting applications, reviewing financial aid, and preparing yourself to step onto the field at the next level. Staying focused, organized, and motivated will help ensure a smooth transition from high school to college soccer.

  • Final List and Applications

    Even in your senior year, there are still opportunities to be seen by college programs and receive final evaluations. While Division I spots may be limited, many DII and DIII programs are still looking to fill roster positions. 


    If you’ve already committed, your future school’s coaching staff will likely continue to watch your performance to ensure you maintain a high level of play. Keep giving your best effort on and off the field; coaches are always paying attention.


    By now, your college list should be narrowed to the schools that truly fit your academic and athletic goals. It’s smart to include a few “safety” schools you’re confident you’ll be admitted to, along with a couple of “reach” schools that may be more competitive.


    Once your list is set, start submitting applications. Be sure you understand the requirements and deadlines for each school so nothing is missed.


  • Assess Financial Aid Packages

    When weighing your options, it’s important to get a complete picture of the financial support available at each university:

    • Federal Student Aid: Complete the FAFSA to qualify for federal aid.
    • Academic Scholarships: Many schools offer scholarships based on academic performance; these are typically guaranteed as long as you maintain minimum standards.
    • Athletic Scholarships: Division I and II programs can offer athletic scholarships, which may cover full or partial costs. These are usually one-year agreements and may not automatically renew each year. Division III schools do not provide athletic scholarships but may offer other forms of support.

    Understanding the financial aid packages available will help you make the best decision for your education and athletic goals.

  • Make an Informed Decision

    Once you have all the information, including academic fit, athletic opportunities, social environment, and financial aid, it’s time to make a confident choice. Remember that you are a student-athlete first, and your overall fit with the school matters just as much as the soccer program.


    After committing, notify other programs you’ve been in contact with. Thank coaches for their time and support - they’ll appreciate your professionalism, and it allows them to focus on other recruits.

  • Prepare for College Soccer

    Even after committing, the work isn’t over. This is your chance to prepare physically, technically, and tactically for the next level. Continue training, competing, and improving so that when you arrive on campus, you’re ready to contribute and make an impact during your freshman season.