With the recent rule changes for NCAA ice hockey, players looking for a college hockey experience will now have to look outside of what was once considered the only path for college hockey.
Looking at European college hockey is an option many before had never considered. College hockey is not just about playing ice hockey, it is about getting your education and having a great life experience while doing that.
Why consider Europe? Many reasons exist that make European College Hockey an attractive offer. Most importantly is that degree’s can be earned at English speaking universities.
The second most important reason players are now considering Europe is based on cost of receiving the education. The average cost of an English speaking university including housing, food, books, tuition, and all hockey expenses for 2025 is anticipated to be in the $15,000 to $18,000 range. Compared to the average cost of NCAA D-3 being $40,000 per year, this is a signifigant savings.
Third on the list of considerations is location. Being located in Europe allows student athletes to experience the world outside of North America. History is around every street corner, and in every city center.
The ability to travel from country to country, and play games against other college teams in other countries is all part of the European College Hockey experience.
One group of players this season traveled from Poland to Italy for a weekend adventure while teams were not playing due to a break in the IIHF calendar. Other players are getting to experience playing in several different countries throughout the season.
Another important reason players are now going to Europe and playing College Hockey is to be scouted by professional teams in Europe. Ninety five percent of all professional players in Europe play junior and/or college hockey in Europe before getting a professional opportunity.
European professional teams do not scout North America. So unless you are coming from NCAA D-1, Major Junior, USHL, or another professional league, you are not likely to get a professional offer in Europe without playing in Europe.
Playing in Europe is the most direct path for any North American player to reach professional hockey in Europe in the future.
Education, adventure, competition, and growth are all available to players through European College Hockey.