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May 19, 2025
Becoming a college baseball umpire is a multi-step process that builds on high school officiating experience. College games are faster and more demanding, so umpires must have strong credentials. Use the guide below to understand how to reach the college level:
First, you generally need experience as a high school umpire. Most college programs will not consider you unless you have at least a couple of years umpiring high school games. Focus on being the best high school umpire you can be – study mechanics, game management, and work as many varsity games as possible. Gaining respect and a strong reputation at the high school level is crucial. Attend advanced training and consider becoming a mentor to new officials as you gain experience.
Many college conferences or regional associations have their own umpire registration. For example, some states have chapters of collegiate umpire associations. If you live near colleges or in a conference region, find out how to join. In the U.S., college baseball is governed by the NCAA or NAIA at the national level, but officials are often organized regionally. Contact the collegiate baseball office at a nearby university or the NAIA board to ask how new umpires are recruited.
College baseball umpires typically need to meet certain standards. This may include attending NCAA officiating clinics or completing USA Baseball umpire training programs. Some college conferences require officials to pass a specific exam on NCAA baseball rules (which are mostly similar to NFHS but with some differences). Seek out any training seminars offered by the colleges or conferences in your area. Programs like USA Baseball Officiating courses can also provide valuable preparation.
In addition to experience and training, you often need certifications. Many college programs require a USA Baseball or NCCP certification. Check the requirements for the level you want to umpire. If you plan to work NAIA or NCAA games, ensure you have any required registrations. Sometimes being listed as a certified high school umpire with your state athletic association fulfills the requirement for college, but check with the specific collegiate bodies.
By this stage, you should already have umpire gear from high school, but make sure it meets any college requirements. College games still require a full set of plate gear (mask, chest protector, shin guards) and the standard umpire uniform. A college-level game might also require logos or patches on your shirt (check regulations). Having a top-quality gear set is important, as college games move fast and there are more eyes on the officials.
Once you meet all qualifications, start seeking assignments. Network with college officiating assigners and let them know you’re interested. Often, new college umpires start as line or base umpires under a mentor. Show your willingness to travel and cover early-season or lower-division games to get a foot in the door. Attending college tournaments (even as a statistician or in another role) can help you make contacts. After working a few college games and proving yourself, you can move up to being a plate umpire in higher-profile games.
College officiating is competitive and requires continual improvement. Attend clinic updates, stay in peak physical condition, and study advanced rules (such as NCAA variations). Many college umpires also umpire summer wood-bat leagues (like the Northwoods or Coastal Plain League) to gain more experience. Over time, you may earn postseason appointments, which come with higher visibility and pay. Keep building relationships with college umpires and conference coordinators; they will recommend you for better assignments.
Becoming a college baseball umpire takes dedication and experience, but the payoff can be great. If you are aiming for college-level officiating, organizations like Home Plate Umpires Association can help guide you. They provide resources on college umpiring pathways and can mentor you as you advance. Reach out to Home Plate Umpires Association to learn more about what it takes to break into college umpiring and get connected with available opportunities. Good luck on your journey from high school to college officiating!
