Choosing the Right College for Lacrosse
Interested in playing lacrosse in college? You’re in the right place.
College lacrosse offers opportunities for athletes at every level—from NCAA varsity programs to two-year colleges and highly competitive men’s and women’s club teams. Whether you’re pursuing elite competition, a balance between athletics and academics, or simply want to continue playing the game while earning your degree, there is a pathway that fits your goals.
This guide introduces the different levels of collegiate lacrosse and explains how each can support your academic, athletic, and personal journey. When you’re ready, launch the Opportunity Pathway™ College Finder to begin exploring schools that match your interests.
Divisions of Collegiate Lacrosse
Every level of college lacrosse offers a different experience. The best choice isn’t always the highest division—it’s the one that best fits your goals.
NCAA Divisions
Division I (DI):
Division I represents the highest level of collegiate competition. Student-athletes commit significant time to practices, strength training, travel, and competition. Athletic scholarships may be available, although they are often divided among multiple players.
This level is ideal for athletes seeking the highest level of competition while balancing the demands of a rigorous athletic schedule.
Division II (DII):
Division II offers highly competitive lacrosse while often providing a strong balance between athletics and academics. Many programs offer partial athletic scholarships and encourage students to pursue internships, leadership opportunities, and research alongside their sport.
For many student-athletes, Division II provides an excellent combination of competitive athletics and a well-rounded college experience.
Division III (DIII):
Division III places academics at the center of the college experience. Athletic scholarships are not offered, but many institutions provide generous academic scholarships, institutional grants, and need-based financial aid.
Students who value strong academics while continuing to compete at a high level often find Division III to be an outstanding fit.
NAIA
The National Association of Intercollegiate Athletics offers competitive programs, often at smaller colleges with close-knit campus communities. Athletic scholarships are available, and many schools provide flexibility for students pursuing additional academic or leadership opportunities.
NJCAA
The National Junior College Athletic Association includes two-year colleges that can serve as an excellent stepping stone to a four-year university. Lower tuition costs, athletic scholarships, and transfer opportunities make this an attractive pathway for many student-athletes.
Men’s Club Lacrosse (MCLA)
The Men’s Collegiate Lacrosse Association (MCLA) features highly competitive club teams at universities across the United States. Many athletes choose MCLA schools because they offer outstanding academic programs, lower overall costs, or a college experience that better matches their long-term career goals.
MCLA programs provide excellent competition while allowing students to prioritize academics, internships, campus involvement, and career preparation. For many athletes, MCLA represents one of the best combinations of competitive lacrosse and the traditional college experience.
Women’s Club Lacrosse (WCLA)
The Women’s Collegiate Lacrosse Associates (WCLA) provides competitive club lacrosse opportunities at colleges and universities nationwide. WCLA programs allow student-athletes to continue playing at a high level while pursuing their academic and professional goals.
Many WCLA teams compete against nationally ranked opponents and offer a rewarding balance between athletics, leadership, campus involvement, and academics.
Beyond Athletics
Choosing a college is about much more than finding a team.
As you compare schools, consider:
- Academic programs and majors
- Career pathways and internship opportunities
- Campus culture
- Location and distance from home
- Cost of attendance
- Financial aid and scholarships
- Student support services
- Opportunities after graduation
The best college is one that prepares you for life long after your final game.
Athletic Scholarships
Understanding scholarships can help you make informed decisions during your college search.
🥍 NCAA Division I –Up to 12.6 men’s scholarships and 12 women’s scholarships are available through equivalency models, meaning awards are often divided among multiple student-athletes.
🥍 NCAA Division II – Up to 10.8 men’s scholarships and 9.9 women’s scholarships may be awarded, with funding typically divided among several players.
🥍 NCAA Division III – Athletic scholarships are not permitted. Many students receive substantial academic scholarships, institutional grants, and need-based financial aid.
🥍 NAIA – Programs may award athletic scholarships with greater flexibility in how they are distributed.
🥍 NJCAA (Junior Colleges) – Many junior colleges provide full or partial athletic scholarships while also offering lower tuition costs.
🥍 MCLA and WCLA
Club programs generally do not provide athletic scholarships. Student-athletes often receive academic scholarships, financial aid, or institutional awards while enjoying a highly competitive collegiate playing experience.
💡 Remember: Coaches often divide scholarships to support multiple athletes, so partial awards are common.
Also, athletic scholarships are only one part of the financial picture. Many students receive more financial assistance through academics and institutional aid than through athletics alone.
New Division I Scholarship Model
Starting with the 2025–26 season, NCAA Division I programs may participate in a new rule that eliminates traditional scholarship caps and allows schools to award athletic scholarships up to the team’s roster limit.
Here’s what you need to know:
🥍 Power 5 schools (ACC, Big Ten, Big 12, Pac-12, SEC) and Notre Dame are required to participate.
🥍 Other Division I schools may choose to opt in or continue with their current scholarship model.
🥍 Ivy League and Patriot League schools have already opted not to participate in this change.
🥍 Even if a school participates, actual scholarship funding depends on the program’s budget and priorities.
💡 Tip: When talking to coaches, ask whether their program is participating in the new roster-based scholarship model and how many athletes they plan to support.
You’re on Your Way!
Your College Lacrosse Action Plan
Great work! You’ve explored the different divisions of college lacrosse and learned how scholarships vary across programs. Whether you’re aiming for elite competition, academic balance, or a flexible two-year start, there’s a path waiting for you. Don’t forget that MCLA/ WCLA (club ball) is super competitive and a great opportunity to continue playing the game. It typically costs money to play for a club team, yet the experience is a blast!
Before you dive into the College Finder, take a moment to check off your progress:
☐ I understand the different collegiate divisions.
☐ I know which pathways best match my academic and athletic goals.
☐ I understand how scholarships and financial aid work.
☐ I have identified five schools to explore.
☐ I have reviewed admissions information.
☐ I have visited team websites.
☐ I am prepared to contact coaches.
☐ I am ready to launch the Opportunity Pathway™ College Finder.
💡 Tip: Keep this checklist handy as you explore options—it’s your playbook for success!
Launch the Opportunity Pathway™ College Finder
You’re ready to begin exploring schools that match your goals.
Use the Finder to compare programs, discover new opportunities, review admissions information, and connect with coaches.
Your next opportunity starts here.
Stay focused, stay determined, and most importantly—enjoy the game!