Esports, also called electronic sports, have gained popularity in recent years, especially among young people who play competitive video games. While there are still a few organizations that don’t acknowledge college esports, an increasing number of colleges are embracing this form of competition, with the intent of offering scholarships to college students who are top performers.

If you’re looking to play competitive esports in college, deciding which program to join can be challenging. Even as thousands of colleges and universities offer official varsity esports programs now, deciding what program will give you the best eSports experience for your needs and future career goals can be had. Thankfully, this guide walks you through the best options available for this activity.

Why Esports?

Not too long ago, esports wasn’t considered a real sport. Many people saw it as nothing more than video games played by people who didn’t have lives. However, recent research has shown that pro gamers have incredible hand-eye coordination and reflexes, and many universities across America and other parts of the world now offer scholarships for eSports athletes.

The rise of esports in American colleges has created many job opportunities for eSports pros. Most jobs in the industry require a Bachelor’s Degree, years of experience in gaming, and your resume. For the last part, check this article for reliable third-party services. What’s more? Esports programs consider it a plus if you play video games professionally.

Esports programs offer more benefits than just getting an in-demand college degree. While it may not seem like much, they remain competitive and profitable, with a net worth of over $2.1 billion. With such high popularity, there is an opportunity for pro gamers to network and break into the mainstream. Students can win prizes in tournaments on games like Overwatch, CS:GO, League of Legends, and PUGB.

What Makes College Varsity Esports Special?

Teamwork, dedication, and competitiveness are the hallmarks of college esports. Players work as a team to complete certain objectives to earn a win. Take, for example, a typical game of Overwatch 2, a five-player team consisting of a tank, two damage dealers, and two support characters, while independent, work together to combat the enemy team. If one player is injured or not performing their role, the entire team can suffer the effects of the loss.

This makes being a collegiate esports player more than just a school club. It’s a sport, and it takes teamwork and dedication to win games. Besides, there’s something special about being part of an athletics program. You have the opportunity to work hard to succeed at something you enjoy with your friends. It makes you feel part of something bigger than yourself, especially when you’re able to represent your school nationally.

How to Join a College Varsity Esports Program

The application process for a college esports program requires outstanding gaming skills and an impressive portfolio. The latter may include videos on-demand or Twitch broadcasts that showcase some of your best gameplay. Send this along with a recruitment form to your college coach. If you have difficulties filling in the form accurately, you can hire writing services online.

You can find information on Mercurynews page about some of the best sites to hire professional writers. Similarly, you can participate in tournaments and leave a lasting impression that will attract college coaches who need potential talents. If successful, you will be invited to a live tryout, which takes place before or during the school year.

Depending on your performance on the college esports team, you may qualify for partial or full scholarships, plus the opportunity to play on the team.

What Top 5 Varsity Esports Programs Should You Consider?

For those interested in joining a varsity esports program at a top-notch university, let’s take a look at how we identify (in no particular order) what will be five great eSports programs to consider this year. This list isn’t meant to be exhaustive, and there are definitely some sleeper picks, but this will give you a good head start.

UC Berkeley

As a Tier 1 college and the eighth-best public university in the US, the University of California, Berkeley offers highly competitive esports programs. Among its vast gaming teams are division-one players comprising Cal Overwatch — Cal Hacks, ULol Primary Team (Leagues of Legend), Cal Golden Bears (CS: GO), Cal PUGB, UCB Ultimate (Smash Ultimate), Golden Bears (Rainbow Six: Siege), Cal Fortnite, and Berkeley Starcraft, to mention a few, and then division-players like Cal Beatsaber II, Cal Golden Two (Rocket League), ULol Division 2, and Cal Overwatch II.

The institution boasts an overall score of 87.4. Tuition is $14,312 for in-state students and $29,754 for out-of-state students. Students aspiring to be athletes are eligible to receive $1,500 scholarships.

University of Utah

A member of the Mountain West Conference, Utah University’s esports team competes in tournaments, including the Collegiate Starleague and the Collegiate Rocket League. A comprehensive list of gaming titles comprises Overwatch, Rocket League, League of Legends, and Hearthstone. The institution’s Intelligent score is 92.92. Annual tuitions in-state and out-of-state cost $9,292 and $30,252, respectively; still, you can avail yourself of scholarships of up to $5,000.

Boise State University

Another member of the Mountain West Conference and a leading esports school with the highest Intelligent score, 97.69, Boise State University’s eSports team is a powerhouse. Among its teams are the Rocket League, Overwatch, and League of Legends, with annual tuition of $8,060 for in-state students and $24,980 for out-of-state students. Its scholarship offers vary. A 2.5 GPA is required for access, among others.

Georgia State University

Located in the Southern Region, this esports university ranks 92.21 on the Intelligent scale. At GSU, students participate in competitions like Brawlhalla, Smite, and League of Legends. In-state tuition costs $8,948; out-of-state tuition costs $22,390. Student athletes who qualify at the tryouts receive $1,000 in scholarship. Another impressive stat is that the National Association of Collegiate eSports recognizes the school as its 34th member.

Miami University (Ohio)

Here’s an excellent electronic sports academic institution with competitive campus leagues. Among its top-ranking gaming roster is League of Legends, Rainbow Six Siege, Counter-Strike: Global Offensive, Rocket League, Overwatch, and Hearthstone. It clinches to an Intelligent score of 92.84. Students pay $16,224 for in-state tuition and $36,650 for out-of-state tuition. Scholarships are also available for students, ranging from $500 to $8,000.

Final Thoughts

If you have a keen interest in joining a collegiate esports program, consider the above-listed schools. Such programs provide real-world experience in teamwork. That experience is sure to give you the edge you need to make it big.