If you are interested in joining the Academy here is the link to apply (we are coeducational and open to ages 13-17). We encourage all prospective student athletes to participate in one of our Clinics or Experiences. These programs are the best way to immerse yourself in our unique methodology, discover our Academy philosophy, and see what makes us different. You can also schedule a personal phone consultation to explore educational options, get guidance on foreign student visa support (if needed), and learn more about our scholarship opportunities.
We recruit international student athletes from around the world and provide full support with foreign student visa assistance to ensure a smooth transition to our Academy. Our student athletes proudly represent nations and territories from around the world, such as Bermuda, Brazil, Bulgaria, Canada, Cuba, France, Germany, Greece, Honduras, Hungary, Iceland, India, Italy, Japan, Mexico, Moldova, the Philippines, Poland, Portugal, Puerto Rico, Russia, Singapore, Spain, Switzerland, Turkey, the United States, and the United Kingdom.
Our three-day Clinics are designed for student athletes who want to push their limits, sharpen their skills, and get a firsthand look at the Academy experience. Intense, challenging, and rewarding, these sessions are perfect for boys and girls ages 12–17 who are serious about improving their performance. Clinics are offered in November, January, and February, running Friday through Sunday. Participants stay off campus, and we provide special hotel discounts for families traveling from out of the area.
Our Elite Camps are an exciting one-week training experience designed for athletes who want to sharpen their skills, expand their knowledge of the game, and train in a professional Academy environment. Open to boys and girls ages 10–17, our Elite Camps offer the perfect balance of high-level instruction and personal growth. Participants can choose to stay on campus as Residents for the full experience, or off campus as Commuters for added flexibility.
Student athletes reside on the Saint Leo University campus in dormitories dedicated exclusively to the Academy, providing a safe, immersive, and supportive living environment.
Our Academy is built to open doors for student athletes, offering four distinct pathways after graduation. Professional Opportunities in Europe, subject to FIFA rules and regulations. MLS Development through our technical partners in Major League Soccer. University College Pathways, including NCAA Division I, II, and III programs. Guaranteed Admission to Saint Leo University, ensuring every graduate has a direct path to higher education.
Tuition for the Fall Semester is due by June 1st, and tuition for the Spring Semester is due by November 1st. Timely payment ensures a smooth enrollment process.
Our teams do not participate in any U.S. based leagues. The primary focus of the Benfica methodology is the development and exposure of every student athlete. We participate in various College ID camps and other high-level domestic and international experiences and tournaments, including in Portugal and other premier soccer countries. This approach provides unparalleled opportunities for growth, visibility, and competition at an elite level.
The Academy welcomes both boys and girls ages 13–17, providing a world-class environment to train, learn, and grow.
We are proud to support student athletes through three distinct scholarship opportunities. Academic Scholarships that are awarded based on academic performance and achievement. Athletic Scholarships that are awarded based on athletic ability and potential. Commuter Scholarships that are designed for student athletes who live off campus, in addition to the support Florida residents may receive through Step Up For Students. Scholarship amounts are determined by an evaluation of each student athlete’s academic record and athletic level.
Our technical coordinators and primary head coaches come directly from the Benfica Campus in Portugal and hold accreditation from both the Portuguese Football Federation (FPF) and UEFA, ensuring world class training and expertise.
The Benfica Experience is a one-week, immersive program designed for student athletes who want to elevate their game and live the life of an Academy athlete. This program offers a unique opportunity to train, learn, and grow while experiencing our rigorous daily schedule. Open to boys and girls ages 14–17, the Benfica Experience requires a pre-screening with recent video submissions to ensure each student athlete is ready to take on the challenge. Sessions run throughout the academic year (August–May) on a first- come, first-served basis, with limited spots available each week. Participants are encouraged to stay on campus as Residents, fully immersing themselves in Academy life.
The academic year runs from August through May. Clinics are typically held in November, January, and February. The Benfica Experience is available throughout the academic year (August–May) on a first-come, first-served basis. Elite Camps are offered during the summer months of June, July, and August. This schedule provides multiple opportunities for student athletes to train, learn, and immerse themselves in Academy life.
Student athletes attend their classes on the Saint Leo University campus, in dedicated classrooms organized by Bishop McLaughlin Catholic High School. In addition to academics, our student athletes also participate in social and community events at the Bishop McLaughlin Catholic High School campus, creating a well rounded and engaging student experience.
To secure enrollment, a deposit is required within 30 days of acceptance into the Academy. The deposit amount is 5% of tuition for student athletes not receiving a scholarship and 10% of tuition for student athletes awarded one or more scholarships.
The Application Fee is a non-refundable $500 and covers administrative and processing costs, including foreign student visa related support when applicable.
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