NAIA Women’s Soccer Colleges: A College Experience That Fits Many Needs

The NAIA, or National Association of Intercollegiate Athletics, sets the athletic rules for its 300+ member colleges and its 188 women’s soccer programs. The NAIA is characterized by its smaller, close-knit campuses, competitive teams and well-rounded college experience for athletes. For student-athletes who want to study abroad, participate in extracurricular activities and enjoy a more traditional college experience, the NAIA might be a great fit.

Are there NAIA women’s soccer scholarships?

There are NAIA women’s soccer scholarships available for athletes. The amount of money athletes can receive as part of their NAIA women’s soccer scholarship will depend on the school, coach, talent level and position. A fully funded NAIA women’s soccer program can give out 12 scholarships, compared to the 9.9 scholarships that can be offered by a full funded D2 program. NAIA schools also have other financial aid opportunities outside of athletic scholarships. Potential recruits should look into academic, merit and need-based scholarships to bring down the overall cost of tuition.

NAIA women’s soccer championship

The NAIA Women’s Soccer Championship tournament has been held annually since 1984 and the current champions are Lindsey Wilson, who are winners of five national titles.

NAIA women’s soccer rankings

Compared to the NCAA, the NAIA offers significantly fewer opportunities to play women’s college soccer, with about 180 institutions offering women’s soccer programs. To find an NAIA school that meets a student-athlete’s academic, athletic, social and financial needs, we highly suggest families reference the NCSA Power Rankings, which rank the top NAIA schools with women’s soccer programs based on tuition cost, location, size, academics and more.

1. Soka University of America
2. Indiana Wesleyan University
3. Taylor University
4. Robert Morris University – Illinois
5. University of St. Thomas – Texas
6. Dordt College
7. Northwestern College – Iowa
8. Mount Mercy University
9. University of Michigan – Dearborn
10. Columbia College – South Carolina

View the complete list of NAIA women’s soccer schools below.