NAIA Programs
How many NAIA programs are there?
There are 188 NAIA men’s soccer programs and 188 NAIA women’s soccer programs. Men’s and women’s soccer programs in NAIA are permitted 12 athletic scholarships. There are some small academic institutions that compete at the NAIA level and many more that offer generous academic and financial aid packages that can be great options for many players.
What makes NAIA different than DI, DII and DIII?
The NAIA is an entirely different and smaller governing body with less strict rules in recruiting, eligibility and scholarships than the NCAA. The NAIA is most comparable to DII in the NCAA in that they can offer scholarships and the top NAIA programs can easily compete with DII programs and in some cases DI programs. 90% of NAIA programs offer scholarships and often can pair financial aid and offer packages of aid based on the association, division within the association and institutional support for the program.
Things to consider:
Is it possible for me to balance both the athletics and academics at this institution?
Will I play or should I go somewhere were I can feature more prominently?
Does this team culture suit me?
Does this particular college set me up for post-college success?
Helpful Link:
Top Drawer Soccer NAIA Men’s College Programs Listed by Conference
Top Drawer Soccer NAIA Women’s College Programs Listed by Conference