Securing a hockey scholarship can be a challenging yet rewarding process, especially with the competitive nature of NCAA ice hockey. Both Division 1 and Division 2 programs offer scholarships, but as an equivalency sport, these scholarships are divided among players, meaning full-ride scholarships are rare and often reserved for top-tier talent from leagues like the USHL. College programs also recruit heavily from international athletes, offering scholarships as an incentive to join U.S.-based teams.

Here’s what recruits need to know to increase their chances of earning a college hockey scholarship.

New NCAA Men’s Hockey Scholarship Limits

Starting with the 2025-2026 academic year, the NCAA is proposing changes that could reshape the way scholarships are distributed for men’s ice hockey. If approved, the new rules will allow D1 programs to offer up to 26 scholarships, up from the current limit of 18. This change is expected to impact college hockey recruiting significantly, making it easier for coaches to offer both full and partial scholarships.

Can You Get a Scholarship for Hockey?

Yes, hockey scholarships are available at the NCAA Division 1 and Division 2 levels, and there are several types of offers that recruits might receive:

• Full-ride scholarship: Reserved for elite players, particularly those in top-tier junior hockey leagues like the USHL.
• Partial scholarship: Coaches may split their scholarship budget among several players, covering part of the cost of tuition, room, board, and other fees.
• Recruited walk-on: Players may be offered a roster spot without a scholarship.
• Unrecruited walk-on: Players can try out for a team after the recruiting process ends, hoping to earn a roster spot.

How Many College Hockey Scholarships Are There?

Scholarships for men’s ice hockey vary by division:

• NCAA Division 1: Teams are allowed up to 26 scholarships under the proposed new rules.
• NCAA Division 2: Teams are allowed 13.5 scholarships.
• NCAA Division 3: No athletic scholarships are offered, though financial aid packages may be available.
• ACHA: Offers no athletic scholarships, and financial aid is academic-based.

How to Get a Hockey Scholarship

Getting a hockey scholarship requires more than just talent. Here are key steps to improve your chances:

1. Maintain Good Grades: Strong academics are just as important as athletics. Coaches look for recruits who can succeed both on the ice and in the classroom.
2. Do Your Research: Not all programs offer athletic scholarships. Make sure the schools you’re interested in have the funding and opportunities that fit your needs.
3. Look for Alternatives: Besides athletic scholarships, you can also apply for merit-based aid, grants, or other financial resources to help cover college costs.

Hockey Scholarship Requirements

Student-athletes who want to play NCAA hockey must meet eligibility requirements, including academic standards and maintaining their amateur status. Failing to meet these requirements can nullify a scholarship offer.

Best Colleges with Hockey Scholarships

Some of the top colleges for men’s ice hockey, based on academics and athletics, include:

• Princeton University
• University of Michigan
• Harvard University
• Boston College
• University of Notre Dame

Understanding the college hockey recruiting process and scholarship opportunities will help you make informed decisions on your journey to securing a scholarship.