Basketball scholarships in the U.S. for international players: step by step

Updated: October 31, 2026

To get a basketball scholarship in the U.S. you need to choose the right level, sort out eligibility, build a video that shows game reading and email the coaches yourself. College basketball has thousands of programs, and choosing where to aim is half the work.

1. Choose your level

There are programs in the NCAA (D1, D2 and D3), the NAIA and junior colleges. Many international players start at a junior college or in the NAIA, adapt to the game and the language, and then move to a four-year university. Smartrecruit lists more than 1,700 men's basketball programs.

2. Understand how scholarships work

In Division II the limit is 10 equivalencies per team, in both men's and women's basketball, which the coach splits into portions. Division III has no athletic scholarships. In Division I, since 2025-26 and the House v. NCAA settlement, the scholarship cap was replaced by a roster limit of 15 players and each university decides how much to offer. More in how much a scholarship covers.

3. Sort out your eligibility

The NCAA and the NAIA have different eligibility centers. If you played for a club with a professional team or were paid anything, read the amateurism section of the eligibility guide carefully.

4. Video: more than points

Coaches want to see game reading, shooting, defense and transition. Include your height and wingspan on the opening title card. Follow the video guide.

5. Contact the coaches

Smartrecruit has official emails for more than 500 basketball programs. Write short, personalized emails in English and follow up after 10 to 14 days. Follow the email guide.

Always confirm current rules on the official NCAA and NAIA websites: they change often.

Frequently asked questions

Are there basketball scholarships for international players?

Yes. Universities recruit international players, subject to each governing body's rules and each university's admissions.

How many scholarships does a basketball team have?

In Division II the maximum is 10 equivalencies per team; Division III has no athletic scholarships; Division I has had a 15-player roster limit instead of a scholarship cap since 2025-26.

Is it a good idea to start at a junior college?

For many international players, yes: it lets you adapt to the game and the language before moving to a four-year university.

What measurements should I put in the video?

Your height and wingspan on the opening title card, and your position and number identified on each play.