Study and play volleyball in America – combine sports and study
Want to combine your passion for volleyball with a world-class degree? Nowhere else is college volleyball as big and spectacular as in the USA. You’ll play in an electric atmosphere, train in professional facilities, and be treated like an elite athlete. Whether you dream of playing indoor or on the sand, there are numerous opportunities for motivated players at every level.
On top of everything else, student-athletes learn to work and thrive in a team environment, which alters and shapes them into well-rounded, unselfish, team-oriented, and driven individuals. These qualities will help you be successful, whether on or off the court.
How does a volleyball scholarship work?
Most universities that offer college volleyball are women’s programs (1600), while there are also a few men’s programs (175). With this many universities offering volleyball, there is a place for every level. Coaches will evaluate you based on your position (setter, outside hitter, middle blocker, libero), your height, your vertical jump, and of course, your highlight video.
The foundation is the athletic scholarship, which can cover up to the full cost of attendance (‘full ride’). This is often combined with:
- Academic Scholarships: For strong grades (GPA) and test scores (SAT/ACT).
- International Student Aid: Special funds that universities have for non-US students.
‘Stacking’ these scholarships to create the best financial package is a complex puzzle. This is where our expertise makes all the difference.
What does a volleyball scholarship cover?
Tuition
Your scholarship can cover the full cost of tuition, which can range from $10,000 to over $70,000 per year.
Training gear
You will receive complete sets of team jerseys, kneepads, shoes, and other gear from top brands, all provided by the university.
Room&Board
The costs for your room on campus (‘dorms’) and your daily ‘meal plan’ can be fully covered by your scholarship.
Insurance
It is mandatory to have health insurance and some schools require international students to take a school’s policy.
Books
A significant expense that is often included in your scholarship package, saving you between $400 and $1200 annually.
Spending money
With a ‘full ride’ scholarship, you may even receive an extra monthly stipend for personal expenses.
Life as a college volleyball player: training & competition
As a student-athlete, you step into a fully professional environment. You’ll be surrounded by experts and have access to world-class facilities, including:
A complete coaching staff: With a head coach and specialized assistant coaches for offense, defense, and strength & conditioning.
First-class facilities: Access to multiple indoor courts, a dedicated ‘locker room’, and elite weight rooms designed specifically for volleyball players.
Expert medical support: Daily access to your own ‘athletic trainers’ (physical therapists) for prevention, treatment, and recovery.
Travel through America & battle for the championship
Your season is an adventure where you play in a regional conference against other universities. But the experience goes much further than just the games:
- Travel as a team: You’ll travel with your teammates, who quickly become your best friends, throughout the region—and sometimes even the entire country. This means not only playing volleyball but also discovering the diversity of America, from long bus rides filled with music and camaraderie to flights for important away games.
- The dream of the Nationals: The ultimate goal of the season is qualifying for the conference tournament and then The Nationals: the nationwide knockout tournament. Here, the best teams from across the US compete for the coveted National Championship. This is the ultimate on-stage experience where dreams become reality.
Overview of an academic year
Showtime! – You will officially begin with a 2-3 week pre-season in which you work intensively with your team on the pitch to prepare for the upcoming season. During the season, you practice almost every day of the week and play 1 to 2 games per week. If your team has done well in the Regular Season, it can qualify for “post-season competition” and continues in tournament mode until the National Championship played in December.
Summer break – There is a possibility to stay in The USA and take summer classes or work in camps. Most students decide to go back to their families to enjoy the 2.5-month break to rest and individual preparation for pre-season.
Day in the life of a student-athlete
Sports & academics are 100% coordinated, so you have the opportunity to excel on both the volleyball court as well as in the classroom.
6:30
Weight/conditioningget ready for the
weight/conditioning training.
7:45
Shower/BreakfastShower and then have breakfast with teammates or friends in one of the dining facilities on the college campus.
8:30
Classes11:45
LunchLunch with teammates and friends, again at one of the various food halls available on campus using your prepaid ‘meal plan’ card.
12:30
Classes14:30
PracticeArrive at the training room to prepare for practice. You may get stretched out or taped by an athletic trainer (physiotherapist)
17:30
Recover/Shower/Dinner19:00
Study/LeisureTime to get some studying or homework done. When other sports teams are in action, a good college athlete supports their fellow athletes! The rest of the evening is your own!
4 unique facts about college volleyball
Play for 92,000 Fans In 2023, the University of Nebraska set a world record with 92,003 spectators at a women’s volleyball match. In many states, college volleyball is bigger than professional sports.
The Rise of Beach Volleyball In addition to traditional indoor volleyball, beach volleyball is now an official and fast-growing NCAA sport. This creates even more spots and scholarship opportunities for talented players.
The Pathway to a Pro Career Many players use college volleyball as a springboard to a professional career in the top European leagues (Italy, Turkey) or the new professional leagues in the USA.
Personal Proof: Our Ambassador Our volleyball ambassador, Ruth Zijlstra, is living proof of the possibilities. She combined her talent with an athletic scholarship at Lynn University in Florida. Her experiences now help and inspire the next generation of players.
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