USL, UPSL and NPSL Tryouts
USL, UPSL and NPSL clubs may hold open tryouts, invitation sessions and preseason recruitment events.
These leagues and competitions are not identical, so players should understand the club, level and commitment before applying.
NextMove helps players find current tryouts and teams looking for players.
Current USL, UPSL and NPSL tryouts
League-specific listings module
Filters:
- League
- Club
- City and state
- Trial date
- Age
- Position
- Cost
- Deadline
- Eligibility
Each listing should link to the official club or application route.
Create your profile and filter US opportunities by league. →
Understand the league labels
League structures can change, and individual clubs may operate at different levels of professionalism.
Before applying, verify:
- The exact league and division
- Whether the team is professional, pre-professional or amateur
- The season dates
- Training expectations
- Compensation
- Player eligibility
- Travel requirements
Do not rely only on the acronym in a social post.
USL opportunities
USL includes multiple competitions and levels.
A club may recruit through:
- Open tryouts
- Invitation-only sessions
- College scouting
- Academy pathways
- Local talent identification
- Player recommendations
Check the official club site for the specific team and competition.
UPSL opportunities
UPSL clubs often recruit locally and may hold preseason or midseason tryouts.
Standards and operating models vary by club.
Ask about:
- Division
- Training schedule
- Travel
- Player fees
- Compensation
- Registration
- Roster availability
NPSL opportunities
NPSL clubs may recruit college players, local semi-pro players and athletes with academy or professional backgrounds.
Opportunities can include:
- Open tryouts
- Invited training
- College offseason play
- Development opportunities
- Local player recruitment
Verify the specific team’s schedule and eligibility requirements.
How to choose the right tryout
Compare:
| Factor | What to check |
|---|---|
| League and level | Does it match your experience? |
| Location | Can you attend training and games? |
| Season | Are you available for the full period? |
| Position | Does the club need your role? |
| Cost | Is the fee clearly explained? |
| Compensation | Paid, expenses or unpaid? |
| Eligibility | Age, college or registration restrictions |
| Outcome | Trial, reserve team or first-team opportunity |
What to include in your application
Send:
- Age
- Position
- Location
- Recent team
- Playing level
- College history where relevant
- Availability
- Video
- Player profile
- Eligibility information when requested
Application message
Hi, I’m a [age]-year-old [position] based in [city/state], most recently playing for [team/level]. I’m interested in the [club] tryout on [date]. My player profile and footage are here: [link]. I’m available for the full season and meet the stated eligibility requirements.
Prepare for the session
- Arrive early
- Bring the required identification
- Use suitable footwear
- Understand the format
- Play your normal position
- Communicate
- Follow instructions
- Maintain intensity
- Ask when decisions will be communicated
Avoid misleading tryouts
Be cautious if:
- The club affiliation cannot be verified
- The organizer guarantees selection
- Fees are hidden
- The date is old
- The venue is unclear
- The event claims attendance by teams that do not mention it
- The organizer requests unnecessary financial information
Frequently asked questions
Are USL, UPSL and NPSL the same level?
No. They have different structures, and club standards vary.
Can college players attend?
Possibly, but players should check current eligibility rules with their institution and the organizer.
Do these teams pay players?
It depends on the league, competition and club. Confirm directly.
When do teams hold tryouts?
Many recruit before the season, but opportunities may appear throughout the year.
Can international players join?
Potentially, but work authorization, registration and visa rules may apply.
Find US soccer tryouts
Create a NextMove profile and find USL, UPSL and NPSL opportunities by location, position and league.
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