Get Recruited to Play College Volleyball
From club volleyball to scholarship offers — your complete roadmap to college volleyball recruiting at every division level.
32,000+
College Volleyball Players
4.9%
HS Players Recruited
1,100+
College Programs
12
D1 Headcount Scholarships
Volleyball Scholarship Landscape
Understand the scholarship opportunities at each division level before you start your recruiting journey.
Division I
D1 volleyball uses headcount scholarships — each is a full ride. One of the most scholarship-rich women's sports.
Division II
Strong scholarship opportunities with less competition than D1. Great balance of athletics and academics.
Division III / NAIA
D3 offers no athletic scholarships but strong merit and need-based aid. NAIA offers athletic scholarships.
Volleyball Recruiting Timeline
Know exactly what to do — and when — to maximize your scholarship opportunities.
Freshman Year
- Join a competitive club volleyball program
- Focus on academics — GPA is critical for eligibility
- Identify your primary position (setter, outside, libero, etc.)
- Attend college volleyball camps to get exposure
Sophomore Year
- Create your athlete profile and skills video
- Begin emailing college coaches with your profile
- Compete in USAV Junior Nationals and high-visibility tournaments
- Research programs and divisions that fit your level
Junior Year
- Register with the NCAA Eligibility Center
- Take the SAT/ACT — aim for qualifying scores
- Go on unofficial visits to your top schools
- The spring club season is heavily watched by coaches
- Narrow your list and communicate interest clearly
Senior Year
- Take official visits and evaluate offers
- Sign your National Letter of Intent
- Maintain grades through graduation
- Continue competing at a high level through signing
Volleyball Recruiting Tips
Insider strategies used by athletes who successfully earned college scholarships.
USAV Junior Nationals is the most-watched tournament for D1 volleyball coaches
Your position determines your recruiting timeline — setters and liberos are recruited earlier
Email coaches directly with your film, stats, and academic profile
Measurables matter — include your height, wingspan, and vertical jump in every email
Attend ID camps at your target schools to get in front of coaches
Coaches want to see your defensive skills, not just your kills
Academic profile matters — volleyball programs often prioritize student-athletes
Don't overlook D2 and D3 — many players have better careers there than at D1
Your club coach is your best recruiting advocate — build that relationship
Follow up every coach email within 48 hours to show genuine interest
Volleyball Recruiting FAQs
When do college volleyball coaches start recruiting players?
D1 coaches can begin contacting players on June 15 after their sophomore year. Many D1 programs identify prospects as early as freshman year through club volleyball.
How important is club volleyball for college recruiting?
Extremely important. USAV Junior Nationals and other high-level club tournaments are where most D1 coaches evaluate prospects. Playing at a competitive club level is essential.
What height do I need to play college volleyball?
Height varies by position. D1 outside hitters are typically 6'0"+, middles 6'2"+, setters 5'10"+, and liberos 5'6"+. However, athleticism and skill can compensate for height at D2 and D3.
What do college volleyball coaches look for in recruits?
Technical skills, athleticism, court IQ, coachability, and academics. Coaches also look at your position fit, vertical jump, and how you perform under pressure.
Can I get a full scholarship to play college volleyball?
D1 volleyball uses headcount scholarships — each is a full ride. D2 uses equivalency scholarships that are often partial. D3 offers no athletic scholarships but strong academic aid.
Ready to Get Recruited for Volleyball?
Take the free Recruiting Readiness Quiz and find out exactly where you stand — then get a personalized action plan.