Rugby scholarships in the U.S. for international players: how it works

Updated: October 31, 2026

Women's rugby is an NCAA emerging sport, with about 30 varsity programs in 2026, and men's college rugby is mostly club. That changes how players are recruited and what scholarships exist, so understand it before writing to anyone.

1. Women's rugby: an NCAA emerging sport

Women's rugby is an NCAA "Emerging Sport": it does not yet have an NCAA championship, but about 30 programs field it as a varsity team, in Divisions I, II and III. Most compete in the NIRA league and the rest in NCR. The number and mix change every season as programs are added or dropped.

2. Men's rugby: mostly club

In men's college rugby most teams are club teams, run by students with varying support from the university. Some universities have programs with more structure and may offer financial aid, but that is not the norm. Always ask the coach what kind of program it is and what support it gives.

3. What scholarships exist

In NCAA women's rugby, few Division I and II programs can offer athletic scholarships, and fewer give a full one. In most programs aid comes through academic merit or the university's own financial aid, so a good GPA weighs as much as your level of play. In men's rugby, aid is usually academic or from the university rather than a classic athletic scholarship.

4. Solve eligibility

If the program is NCAA (D1 or D2), you must register with the Eligibility Center. Club teams do not require it, but you still need admission to the university. See the eligibility guide.

5. How to show yourself

A match video with your position clearly identified (forwards or backs) and your physical data. If you play for a national team, provincial or regional selections or high-level clubs, put it first. Follow the video guide.

6. Email the coach

Smartrecruit lists 94 men's rugby programs and the NCAA women's rugby programs, with coach contacts available with an account. Send a short email in English with your details and video, 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

Is rugby an NCAA sport?

Women's rugby is an NCAA emerging sport, with about 30 programs in 2026. Men's college rugby is mostly club.

Are there rugby scholarships for international players?

Few programs offer athletic scholarships, and very few give full ones. Many athletes combine a partial scholarship with academic or financial aid from the university.

Do I need the Eligibility Center to play college rugby?

For NCAA programs in Division I or II, yes. For club teams, no, but you still need to be admitted to the university.

What is NIRA?

It is the league that organizes women's rugby for NCAA programs. Other programs compete in the NCR league.