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Rugby Scholarships in the USA: Why College Rugby Is the Next Big Thing for International Players

In recent years, college rugby in the USA has grown into one of the most exciting opportunities for ambitious players worldwide. With world-class facilities, academic flexibility, and an increasing number of rugby scholarships for international players, the U.S. college system offers a unique chance to study and play rugby at a high level—while keeping your professional dreams alive.

At BRUSA Sports, we specialise in helping talented athletes secure rugby scholarships in America, matching them with universities that fit their academic goals and playing ambitions.

You can see some of our placed athletes HERE

The Structure: How College Rugby in the USA Works

Unlike traditional rugby pathways in the UK, South Africa, or Australia, the U.S. college rugby system is diverse, offering multiple levels of play and different governing bodies.

College Rugby Association of America (CRAA) and National Collegiate Rugby (NCR)

  • Division 1A Rugby – The top men’s league, featuring elite programs like Life University, Lindenwood, and Saint Mary’s College, where competition is fierce and exposure to professional scouts is high.

  • Division 1-AA and Division 2  and Division 3 – Highly competitive leagues offering opportunities for developing players to thrive while earning quality degrees.

This multi-division structure ensures that no matter your skill level, there’s a program in the U.S. where you can grow, compete, and earn a degree.

The Rapid Growth of Rugby in America

Over the past decade, rugby participation in the U.S. has exploded. There are now more than 32,000 registered college rugby players across men’s and women’s divisions. The launch of Major League Rugby (MLR) has accelerated the sport’s development, providing a professional platform that connects directly with college programs.

As a result, more international players are looking to study and play rugby in the USA, using it as both a life-changing experience and a potential pathway to professional rugby.

From College to Professional Rugby: The U.S. Pathway to Pro

One of the biggest draws of the U.S. college rugby system is the opportunity to go professional. Many athletes have successfully transitioned from university rugby to the Major League Rugby (MLR) and even international competitions.

  • MLR Draft: The annual Major League Rugby Collegiate Draft allows top-performing college players to be selected by professional teams. (2025 Collegiate Draft summary)

  • Examples of Success: Players from universities like Life, Lindenwood, and Saint Mary’s have gone on to play professionally in the MLR, Europe, and national teams such as the USA Eagles.

  • Global Recognition: Because of the high standard of competition and exposure, U.S. college rugby is now being scouted internationally—creating opportunities that simply didn’t exist 10 years ago.

For ambitious players, this means a real chance to turn a rugby scholarship into a professional rugby career.

Why International Players Are Choosing College Rugby in the USA

For student-athletes from the UK, Ireland, Europe, South Africa, Australia, and New Zealand, the U.S. college route offers a combination of sport, education, and lifestyle that few other countries can match:

  • 🎓 Academic Excellence – Earn a globally recognised degree while continuing your athletic development.

  • 💸 Rugby Scholarships – Many universities offer partial or full rugby scholarships to international players.

  • 🏉 Elite Facilities and Coaching – Universities invest heavily in strength & conditioning, sports science, and athlete welfare.

  • 🌎 Life Experience – Living abroad builds independence, resilience, and life-long connections that extend beyond the pitch.

  • 💼 Career Options After Graduation – Whether you go pro, coach, or move into business, a U.S. degree opens countless doors.

Rugby in the USA: Opening Doors Beyond the Field

Even if professional rugby isn’t the end goal, college rugby in America provides experiences and networks that go far beyond sport. Athletes develop leadership, discipline, and global connections—qualities that help in every career.

Many BRUSA Sports athletes have gone on to earn advanced degrees, coaching positions, or careers in sports management, all while keeping rugby a central part of their lives.

How BRUSA Sports Can Help You Secure a Rugby Scholarship

At BRUSA Sports, we guide student-athletes through every step of the U.S. recruitment process—from creating highlight videos and contacting coaches to securing rugby scholarships and university admissions.

Our mission is simple: to help you study and play rugby in the USA while setting up your future for success both on and off the field.

If you’re ready to explore your options, book a free consultation today and start your journey toward a U.S. rugby scholarship.