Introduction: Why the USA?

If you’re a talented young golfer in the UK or Europe, chances are you’ve thought about pursuing a golf scholarship in the USA. With world class facilities, elite coaching, and competitive tour level schedules, the American college system offers an unparalleled opportunity to combine academics and high-performance sport.

But how do you actually get recruited for a US college golf team? What do coaches look for? And how can you stand out from thousands of other junior golfers?

Here’s everything you need to know based on years of real experience helping UK players secure scholarships to NCAA and NAIA schools.

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1. Understand the Types of Golf Scholarships

There are two main college sports organisations that offer golf scholarships:

• NCAA (Divisions I, II, III)
  
  
• NAIA (National Association of Intercollegiate Athletics)
  
  

Division I and II schools can offer athletic scholarships
Division III offers academic/merit-based aid
NAIA offers both athletic and academic scholarships and can be more flexible

2. Know What Coaches Are Looking For

College coaches evaluate players based on:

• Tournament results (especially WAGR-ranked events)
  
  
• Handicap and scoring average
  
  
• Work ethic and attitude
  
  
• Academics (GPA, SAT/ACT scores)
  
  
• Coachability and personality fit
  
  

Tip: A UK golfer with a handicap of 2 or better and consistent tournament results is highly recruitable for many programs.

3. Build Your Golf Resume

To impress coaches, you need a standout golf portfolio. This includes:

• Tournament history and results
  
  
• Highlight video (swing from multiple angles, on-course footage)
  
  
• WAGR profile
  
  
• Academic profile (GCSE/A-Level grades, predicted scores, SAT results)
  
  
• Personal statement or cover email to coaches

4. Start Early! The Timeline Matters

Here’s when to start the process:

• Age 15–16 (Year 11): Begin building resume, plan WAGR events
  
  
• Age 16–17 (Year 12): Contact coaches, take SATs, attend showcases
  
  
• Age 17–18 (Year 13): Finalise offers, sign National Letter of Intent
  
  

Most US coaches start recruiting players 12–18 months before enrolment.

5. Work With a Golf Scholarship Expert

Navigating eligibility rules, NCAA regulations, SATs, and international visas can be overwhelming. That’s where we come in.

At Study & Play America, we specialise in guiding UK golfers through the entire US college golf recruitment process, from initial assessment to coach outreach, video creation, WAGR planning, and final placement.

Final Thought

Earning a golf scholarship in the USA isn’t just about talent, it’s about timing, presentation, and the right connections. With proper planning and expert guidance, the opportunity is absolutely within reach.

Interested in learning where you could play?
Book your free consultation and let us assess your potential.