Want to Play College Women’s Volleyball?
Every year, thousands of athletes dream of earning a women’s volleyball scholarship in the U.S.
With more than 470,000 high school players competing nationwide, women’s volleyball is one of the fastest-growing sports in America. But fewer than 6% of those athletes will compete in college, and only about 1% reach Division I.
The recruiting process is competitive — but with the right strategy, scholarships are within reach. This guide breaks down everything you need to know in 2025: rules, scholarship limits, recruiting guidelines, video tips, and FAQs.
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Quick Facts: Women’s Volleyball Scholarships
- College programs: 1,800+ across NCAA, NAIA, and Junior Colleges
- Scholarship availability: Full or partial, depending on division and program budget
- NCAA Division I (2025 update): Up to 18 players on roster, with scholarships offered as equivalency awards (full or partial).
- NCAA Division II & NAIA: Equivalency sports, coaches split scholarship dollars among players.
- Junior Colleges (JUCO): Funding varies by state and division, some full, some partial.
- NCAA Division III: No athletic aid, but strong academic and need-based packages.
The 2025 NCAA Women’s Volleyball Update: What Changed?
Until 2024, NCAA Division I women’s volleyball was classified as a headcount sport: teams could award 12 full-ride scholarships only.
Starting in the 2025-26 season, women’s volleyball is now an equivalency sport with an 18-player roster cap.
- Schools can now divide scholarship dollars among more athletes.
- Players may receive full or partial aid, giving coaches more flexibility.
- The goal is to create more opportunities, especially with the sport’s rapid growth.
👉 Translation: More players can get scholarship money, but not every award will be a full ride.
Why Women’s Volleyball Recruiting Starts Early
College coaches begin scouting much earlier than most families expect:
- Division I: Many coaches evaluate athletes as early as 9th grade.
- Division II & III: Most begin identifying recruits in 10th grade.
- Junior Colleges: Often recruit later, 11th–12th grade.
Because of this, athletes need to build highlight videos, academic profiles, and communication plans well before their senior year.
What You’ll Learn in This Guide
- How scholarships work at every level (D1, D2, NAIA, JUCO, D3).
- Academic and athletic benchmarks coaches expect.
- NCAA and NAIA recruiting rules (when coaches can contact you).
- How to create a highlight video that gets real responses.
- Common mistakes that cost players opportunities.
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Women’s Volleyball Success Stories
“StudBud gave us tranquility that our kids will have best assistance possible. Very warm recommendation if you want to send your child overseas for studying and sports.”
Vladimir Grbic Olympic gold medalist and father of Una (Lindsey Wilson) and Ina (Ottawa Braves)“Thanks to StudBud, I went from a small club team in Europe to NCAA Division I on scholarship. They helped me with video, emails, and the visa process.”
— Ana, Outside Hitter, Class of 2025
“Thanks to StudBud, I went from a small club team in Europe to NCAA Division I on scholarship. They helped me with video, emails, and the visa process.”
— Ana, Outside Hitter, Class of 2025
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FAQ Preview
Do Division I volleyball scholarships cover full tuition?
Not always. As of 2025, D1 women’s volleyball is an equivalency sport. Teams can now divide aid among up to 18 players. Some athletes receive full scholarships, others partial.
Can I combine athletic and academic aid?
Yes. Especially at D2, NAIA, and JUCO schools, the best packages come from stacking athletic + academic + need-based aid.
What if I’m late to the recruiting process?
You still have options. D2, NAIA, and JUCO programs recruit later and often have roster spots open. Update your video, expand your school list, and start contacting coaches.
How important is club vs high school volleyball?
Club volleyball is usually more important for recruiting, since coaches scout major tournaments. But strong high school performance still adds credibility.
👉 See the full Women’s Volleyball FAQ.
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Bonus: How to Email Coaches (Templates)
Subject line ideas
-or-
2025 Libero – 3.85 GPA – [City/Club] – Video + Schedule
Intro email (short & scannable)
I’m [Name], a [Grad/Enroll Year] [Position] from [City/Country], playing for [Club/HS]. Quick profile:
Height/Touch: [e.g., 6’0″, 9’9″ approach, 9’6″ block]
Academics: [GPA, test if applicable]
Video: [link]
Schedule: [2–3 upcoming events]
I’ve watched [School] play and believe my [skill/system fit] matches your style ([quick tempo pins/strong serve-receive/etc.]).
Would you be open to evaluating my film and sharing your needs for [Position] in [Year]?
Thank you,
[Name] | [Phone/WhatsApp] | [Profile Link]
Follow-up (7–10 days)
Since my last email: [new touch PR / event result / award].
Appreciate any feedback on fit. Thank you!
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Vague emails (no video, no measurables, no position/year).
- Long highlight reels without a strong first 30 seconds.
- Only chasing name brands—fit and playing time matter.
- Ignoring academics (you’ll lose academic money).
- Waiting for coaches to find you—be proactive and consistent.