Research College Hockey (Click here to go directly to the "College Hockey Guide)

For young players who desire to attend a college where they will be provided with an opportunity to play competitive hockey while acquiring an education, the College Hockey Guide is an excellent tool.

Players and parents must be aware that grades are of utmost importance. The most talented and skilled players will not be accepted into a college if their grades do not meet the minimum standards for the school!

 Some things to research . . .

• What are the college academic offerings - does this fit your needs?
• What are the academic requirements for admission - can you qualify?
• What is the tuition cost - does this fit your budget?
• What is the former playing level of the current players - does this match your playing experience?
• Does the college have an on campus college hockey arena?
• How is the fan support (attendance at games)?
• Is transportation provided to away games?

In general, there is no guarantee of inclusion on a college hockey team unless the player has been awarded a hockey scholarship by a NCAA Division I college, so it is important that players attend a college that matches their previous level of success in hockey. College hockey teams are classified by level of play and players should determine what level is the best fit for them. Below are a few guidelines to help with this process.

NCAA Division I is the highest level of college hockey. Players at this level have usually been identified at an early age and many are given athletic scholarships. Many of these players have played at a very high level of Prep School Hockey or Junior A Hockey for one or more years to further develop their skills and strength. If a player has not been recruited by a Division I college, it is not likely that this level will be a good fit.

NCAA Division III is a very high level of play, but does not offer athletic scholarships. These colleges recruit heavily and players at this level have usually been recruited by the college. Many of the players have played a high level of Junior, Midget AAA or Prep School hockey before entering college.

ACHA Division I is a high level of play and many are equal to NCAA Division III teams ( Read what NHL.com says about the top ACHA teams ). These teams often have on campus college hockey arenas and enjoy large fan attendance. These teams recruit heavily and many of the players have played a high level of Junior, Midget AAA or Prep School hockey before entering college.

ACHA Division II is a good fit for many players who have been standouts on average level high school or midget hockey teams. Many of these programs are well organized and managed and can offer a good experience for players who do not qualify for the higher levels.

ACHA Division III is generally a step down in playing level, but many of these programs are well organized and managed and can offer a good experience for players who do not qualify for the higher levels.