20-year-old international soccer player from China looking to transfer to a US college and continue playing — how should I start?
Hi everyone,
I’m a 20-year-old soccer player from China, and I’m currently studying at a sports university in China. I’m expected to graduate next year, but I have the option to transfer to a university in the United States.
I’m hoping to continue my education in the US while also continuing to play competitive college soccer.
I have a professional soccer background in China and have played at a high level. My main positions are defensive midfielder (CDM) and winger. I am a National Level 1 Football Player and a National Level 1 Football Referee. I also have an AFC D coaching license.
I’m currently in the US and based in New Hampshire, so I’m especially interested in schools in New England and on the East Coast. I’m open to D1, D2, or D3 programs. My main goal is to find a school where I can continue my education and have a real opportunity to compete for a place on the soccer team.
The problem is that I don’t really understand how the US college soccer recruiting and transfer process works.
I have started looking at college soccer programs and contacting coaches, but I’m not sure if I’m approaching this the right way. I also don’t know how my previous university education and soccer experience in China would affect NCAA eligibility.
I would really appreciate advice from anyone who has experience with college soccer, especially international or transfer student-athletes.
Some of my main questions are:
Should I contact college coaches directly, or apply to the university first?
How does the transfer process work for an international student who is already enrolled at a university in another country?
How does NCAA eligibility work in my situation?
Is it realistic to join a D1, D2, or D3 team as a transfer student?
How does the walk-on/tryout process work?
Is there a possibility of receiving an athletic scholarship as a transfer student?
What documents should I prepare for coaches?
Should I send a soccer resume and highlight video when contacting coaches?
Are there any websites or resources that can help me find programs that are currently recruiting?
I’m not expecting anyone to find a school for me. I mainly want to understand the correct process and learn from people who have already gone through it.
If you have any advice, personal experience, or resources that could help me get started, I would really appreciate it.
Thank you!