MLS Next and College Recruiting: Why Families Still Need a Plan

Playing in MLS Next is a huge accomplishment. It’s one of the highest levels of youth soccer in the U.S., and the league is designed to prepare players for the professional pathway. But here’s the reality many families discover too late:

MLS Next does not guarantee a college scholarship.

Yes, being part of MLS Next gives players more visibility. Yes, college coaches know the league and attend events. But the numbers, the process, and the competition mean that even the most talented players often need more than just a jersey to secure a college roster spot.

At SRUSA, we work with families in MLS Next every year — and we see the same questions come up over and over. Let’s tackle the most common ones.

Do MLS Next players automatically get recruited to college soccer?

No. College coaches recruit from MLS Next, but being in the league doesn’t automatically put you on their radar. Coaches have hundreds of players to evaluate, and they only have a limited number of roster spots to fill each year.

Players who succeed in recruiting are the ones who:

• Build and share a strong recruiting profile (soccer and academics).

• Send targeted outreach to the right schools.

• Consistently update coaches with game schedules, video, and progress.

Why the numbers are stacked against you

Even if you play in MLS Next, the odds are tough. Here’s why:

• NCAA Division 1 men’s soccer has about 205 programs.

• Each roster averages 29 players.

• On average, only 8–10 seniors graduate per team per year.

• That means fewer than 2,000 new D1 spots open each year.

When you add in D2, D3, NAIA, and NJCAA, the total number of new spots is closer to 10,000. But remember — it’s not just MLS Next players competing. Add in ECNL, high school standouts, international players, and transfers, and the competition is fierce.

So even though MLS Next produces thousands of players each year, college coaches don’t “need” thousands of new recruits. They’re selective, filling very specific positional and academic needs.

Are all MLS Next clubs the same?

No — and this is something families often misunderstand.

MLS Next includes:

• MLS professional academies (the highest level, directly linked to pro clubs).

• Top independent academies (strong, competitive programs).

• Regional clubs with varying levels of quality.

College coaches know the difference. A starter at an MLS academy may get more immediate attention than a squad player at a smaller MLS Next club. That’s why proactive recruiting is essential no matter which MLS Next team you’re on.

What about scholarships for MLS Next players?

There is no automatic scholarship for being in MLS Next. Scholarships depend on:

• The program (D1, D2, D3, NAIA, NJCAA).

• Your ability, position, and fit for the team.

• Your academic record (which can also unlock merit aid).

Most families ultimately use a mix of athletic and academic scholarships to make college affordable.

Do MLS Next players need a recruiting agency?

This is the key question. The truth: most families benefit from expert guidance.

Here’s why:

• College coaches know MLS Next is strong, but they don’t automatically know you.

• Every player’s pathway is different — some fit at D1, others at D2, D3, or NAIA.

• The process can be overwhelming: timelines, NCAA rules, highlight videos, ID camps, and communication strategies.

That’s where a recruiting agency like SRUSA (Sports Recruiting USA) comes in. We don’t just open doors — we guide you through the entire process. From building a professional recruiting profile, to communicating with the right coaches, to understanding scholarship opportunities, SRUSA helps MLS Next families create a clear, personalized plan.

Key Takeaways for MLS Next Families

1. Exposure is not guaranteed just because you play in MLS Next.

2. The numbers are against you — thousands of players for limited spots.

3. Not all MLS Next clubs are equal — and coaches know the difference.

4. Scholarships aren’t automatic — they depend on academics and fit.

5. A recruiting agency can make the difference by giving your family a roadmap.

Final Word

MLS Next is an incredible platform — but it’s only one piece of the recruiting puzzle. Families who combine high-level play with a clear strategy put themselves in the best position to succeed.

At SRUSA, we’ve helped thousands of players navigate this process, including MLS Next players just like you. If you want to maximize your opportunities and find the right college fit, get in touch with us today or apply at www.srusasoccer.com/apply