“I try to recruit student-athletes who will be a good fit with my program.” — Jennie Salmon, Head Fencing Coach, Temple University (USA Fencing)
“Include who you are, where you're from, GPA/accolades, club, rating (if any), weapon…” — advice from a Division I coach on Reddit
Most parents assume that a single tournament medal or an “A” rating guarantees their child a spot on an NCAA fencing roster. The truth? Coaches care just as much about trends, consistency, and fit as they do about letters and medals.
In this resource, we’ll explain how NCAA coaches interpret fencing ratings, national point rankings, and even international results, plus how you can make your athlete’s recruiting profile stand out.
For the broader recruiting picture, including timelines, NCAA rules, and scholarship breakdowns, explore our Fencing Scholarship Resource.
TL;DR (Quick Takeaways)
Ratings (A–E) are earned at tournaments with defined “group strength” levels (A4, A3, etc.).
National Rolling Points (NRPS) measure consistency across major events, not just one good day.
International rankings (FIE) are most relevant for athletes targeting elite Division I programs.
Coaches value upward trends and strength of field over isolated wins.
Academics remain a deal-breaker: GPA and test scores matter as much as ratings.
Glossary of Ratings, Points & Rankings
Term | Meaning | Why It Matters |
|---|---|---|
Rating (A–E, U) | Classification earned by performance at sanctioned events | Coaches use as shorthand for ability |
NRPS (National Rolling Points) | Ongoing points list for Cadet, Junior, Senior | Shows consistency and readiness for nationals |
Regional Points (RJCC/ROC) | Region-based standings | Signal growth before scaling to national level |
FIE Rankings | International points for World Cups/Grand Prix | Benchmark for high-end DI recruiting |
We break down how these recruiting metrics connect to timelines and coach communication in our Fencing Scholarship Resource.
USA Fencing Ratings (A–E): What They Really Mean
Group Strength & Event Classifications
Ratings are awarded based on the strength of the field.
Example: Division I NACs and Nationals are always Group A4, meaning they award more top-level ratings.
Local events only award ratings if they meet minimum participation and referee standards (Classification Reference Chart, USA Fencing).
How Coaches Read Ratings
Is the rating recent?
Was it earned against a strong field (lots of As and Bs)?
Does the athlete’s resume show progression (D → C → B)?
Coach Insight Box:
“A new C from a deep Junior NAC often tells me more about potential than an old A earned at a weak local event.” — anonymized Division I assistant coach
National Rolling Points (NRPS): The Consistency Signal
NRPS rankings track fencers across NACs, Junior Olympics, and Nationals. (USA Fencing NRPS standings)
They’re used for seeding, qualification, and as a consistency metric.
Coaches often notice trend more than rank.
Example:
Fencer A: Top-8 finish once, but mostly outside top 128 → less appealing.
Fencer B: Steady climb from 120 → 65 → 32 → very appealing.
See how NRPS trends tie into recruiting opportunities in our Fencing Scholarship Resource
Regional Points (RJCCs / ROCs): Building Blocks
Regional Junior/Cadet Circuits (RJCCs) and ROCs let athletes earn points closer to home.
They show progression and readiness but don’t carry the same national weight.
Coaches interpret these as developmental stepping stones.
FIE / International Rankings: For Top-Tier Division I
International FIE rankings matter for recruits aiming at programs like Notre Dame, Columbia, or Harvard.
Even one or two FIE results (World Cup or Grand Prix) can differentiate a fencer in the recruiting pool. (FIE Rankings)
How NCAA Coaches Evaluate Your Profile
Trend Over Title → Progression beats one-off medals.
Strength of Field → Results at NACs > results at local opens.
Division Fit
Top DI: NRPS presence, international experience.
Mid-DI/DIII: Consistency + academics.
Academic Compatibility → GPA/test scores are non-negotiable.
Character & Leadership → Coaches seek team players as much as medalists.
For recruiting rules by division and NCAA communication dates, see our Fencing Scholarship Resource
NCAA Fencing Recruiting Key Dates
Division I
Recruiting Communication: June 15 after Sophomore year (calls, emails, DMs, texts allowed)
In-Person Contact: August 1 before Junior year (off-campus meetings + conversations)
Official Visits: Begin August 1 before Junior year (college-funded)
Unofficial Visits: Anytime, but no recruiting conversations until August 1 before Junior year
Division II
Recruiting Communication: 9th grade (calls, emails, DMs, texts allowed)
In-Person Contact: June 15 before Junior year (off-campus meetings + conversations)
Official Visits: Begin June 15 before Junior year (college-funded)
Unofficial Visits: Anytime, but no recruiting conversations until June 15 before Junior year
Division III
Recruiting Communication: During Sophomore year (emails, DMs, off-campus contact allowed)
In-Person Contact: Allowed during Sophomore year (earlier than DI/DII)
Official Visits: January 1 of Junior year (college-funded)
Unofficial Visits: Anytime, and recruiting conversations may occur earlier than DI/DII
📌 Tip for Families: NCAA timelines vary, but Division III is the most flexible, while Division I has the strictest restrictions. Always confirm the most up-to-date rules at NCAA.org.
Benchmarks & Planning Your Season
Level | Typical Rating / Rank | Event Priorities |
|---|---|---|
DIII / Early DI Interest | C / Top 500 | Local opens, RJCCs, occasional NACs |
Mid-level DI | B / Top 200 | NACs, Junior Olympics, Nationals |
Top DI / National Team Track | A / Top 25 | Nationals, World Cups, FIE |
Pro Tip Box:
Parents often overemphasize “letter rating.” In reality, NRPS trends + academics usually decide whether a coach responds.
Highlight Video That Matches the Numbers
2–3 minutes, edited for clarity.
Show footwork, tactical decisions, and composure—not just winning touches.
Include context (opponent, score, round) to prove it’s against real competition.
Coaches skim dozens; keep it professional.
For email templates to send videos to coaches, check out the Fencing Playbook for Parents
FAQs (SEO + Voice Search Optimized)
Q: Do fencing ratings expire?
Yes. Ratings drop after 4 years if not re-earned.
Q: Which matters more: rating or NRPS?
NRPS usually carries more weight—it shows consistency. Ratings are shorthand benchmarks.
Q: Can a D-rated fencer be recruited?
Yes, especially at DIII or mid-tier DI schools, if academics and trajectory are strong.
Q: How do regional points compare to national points?
Regional = momentum. National = readiness. Coaches value the latter more.
Q: When can coaches contact recruits?
After June 15 following sophomore year, per NCAA rules. (USA Fencing NCAA Resource)
Final Takeaway
🚀 Two paths from here:
Keep learning (free): Explore our Fencing Scholarship Resource for NCAA rules, timelines, and division-by-division insights.
Move faster (paid): Get the Fencing Playbook for Parents—the complete roadmap with timelines, templates, outreach scripts, and planning tools trusted by NCAA families.
If you want your child’s fencing profile to get seen—not ignored—the Resource + Playbook combo is your competitive edge.
“I try to recruit student-athletes who will be a good fit with my program.” — Jennie Salmon, Head Fencing Coach, Temple University (USA Fencing)
“Include who you are, where you're from, GPA/accolades, club, rating (if any), weapon…” — advice from a Division I coach on Reddit
Most parents assume that a single tournament medal or an “A” rating guarantees their child a spot on an NCAA fencing roster. The truth? Coaches care just as much about trends, consistency, and fit as they do about letters and medals.
In this resource, we’ll explain how NCAA coaches interpret fencing ratings, national point rankings, and even international results, plus how you can make your athlete’s recruiting profile stand out.
For the broader recruiting picture, including timelines, NCAA rules, and scholarship breakdowns, explore our Fencing Scholarship Resource.
TL;DR (Quick Takeaways)
Ratings (A–E) are earned at tournaments with defined “group strength” levels (A4, A3, etc.).
National Rolling Points (NRPS) measure consistency across major events, not just one good day.
International rankings (FIE) are most relevant for athletes targeting elite Division I programs.
Coaches value upward trends and strength of field over isolated wins.
Academics remain a deal-breaker: GPA and test scores matter as much as ratings.
Glossary of Ratings, Points & Rankings
Term | Meaning | Why It Matters |
|---|---|---|
Rating (A–E, U) | Classification earned by performance at sanctioned events | Coaches use as shorthand for ability |
NRPS (National Rolling Points) | Ongoing points list for Cadet, Junior, Senior | Shows consistency and readiness for nationals |
Regional Points (RJCC/ROC) | Region-based standings | Signal growth before scaling to national level |
FIE Rankings | International points for World Cups/Grand Prix | Benchmark for high-end DI recruiting |
We break down how these recruiting metrics connect to timelines and coach communication in our Fencing Scholarship Resource.
USA Fencing Ratings (A–E): What They Really Mean
Group Strength & Event Classifications
Ratings are awarded based on the strength of the field.
Example: Division I NACs and Nationals are always Group A4, meaning they award more top-level ratings.
Local events only award ratings if they meet minimum participation and referee standards (Classification Reference Chart, USA Fencing).
How Coaches Read Ratings
Is the rating recent?
Was it earned against a strong field (lots of As and Bs)?
Does the athlete’s resume show progression (D → C → B)?
Coach Insight Box:
“A new C from a deep Junior NAC often tells me more about potential than an old A earned at a weak local event.” — anonymized Division I assistant coach
National Rolling Points (NRPS): The Consistency Signal
NRPS rankings track fencers across NACs, Junior Olympics, and Nationals. (USA Fencing NRPS standings)
They’re used for seeding, qualification, and as a consistency metric.
Coaches often notice trend more than rank.
Example:
Fencer A: Top-8 finish once, but mostly outside top 128 → less appealing.
Fencer B: Steady climb from 120 → 65 → 32 → very appealing.
See how NRPS trends tie into recruiting opportunities in our Fencing Scholarship Resource
Regional Points (RJCCs / ROCs): Building Blocks
Regional Junior/Cadet Circuits (RJCCs) and ROCs let athletes earn points closer to home.
They show progression and readiness but don’t carry the same national weight.
Coaches interpret these as developmental stepping stones.
FIE / International Rankings: For Top-Tier Division I
International FIE rankings matter for recruits aiming at programs like Notre Dame, Columbia, or Harvard.
Even one or two FIE results (World Cup or Grand Prix) can differentiate a fencer in the recruiting pool. (FIE Rankings)
How NCAA Coaches Evaluate Your Profile
Trend Over Title → Progression beats one-off medals.
Strength of Field → Results at NACs > results at local opens.
Division Fit
Top DI: NRPS presence, international experience.
Mid-DI/DIII: Consistency + academics.
Academic Compatibility → GPA/test scores are non-negotiable.
Character & Leadership → Coaches seek team players as much as medalists.
For recruiting rules by division and NCAA communication dates, see our Fencing Scholarship Resource
NCAA Fencing Recruiting Key Dates
Division I
Recruiting Communication: June 15 after Sophomore year (calls, emails, DMs, texts allowed)
In-Person Contact: August 1 before Junior year (off-campus meetings + conversations)
Official Visits: Begin August 1 before Junior year (college-funded)
Unofficial Visits: Anytime, but no recruiting conversations until August 1 before Junior year
Division II
Recruiting Communication: 9th grade (calls, emails, DMs, texts allowed)
In-Person Contact: June 15 before Junior year (off-campus meetings + conversations)
Official Visits: Begin June 15 before Junior year (college-funded)
Unofficial Visits: Anytime, but no recruiting conversations until June 15 before Junior year
Division III
Recruiting Communication: During Sophomore year (emails, DMs, off-campus contact allowed)
In-Person Contact: Allowed during Sophomore year (earlier than DI/DII)
Official Visits: January 1 of Junior year (college-funded)
Unofficial Visits: Anytime, and recruiting conversations may occur earlier than DI/DII
📌 Tip for Families: NCAA timelines vary, but Division III is the most flexible, while Division I has the strictest restrictions. Always confirm the most up-to-date rules at NCAA.org.
Benchmarks & Planning Your Season
Level | Typical Rating / Rank | Event Priorities |
|---|---|---|
DIII / Early DI Interest | C / Top 500 | Local opens, RJCCs, occasional NACs |
Mid-level DI | B / Top 200 | NACs, Junior Olympics, Nationals |
Top DI / National Team Track | A / Top 25 | Nationals, World Cups, FIE |
Pro Tip Box:
Parents often overemphasize “letter rating.” In reality, NRPS trends + academics usually decide whether a coach responds.
Highlight Video That Matches the Numbers
2–3 minutes, edited for clarity.
Show footwork, tactical decisions, and composure—not just winning touches.
Include context (opponent, score, round) to prove it’s against real competition.
Coaches skim dozens; keep it professional.
For email templates to send videos to coaches, check out the Fencing Playbook for Parents
FAQs (SEO + Voice Search Optimized)
Q: Do fencing ratings expire?
Yes. Ratings drop after 4 years if not re-earned.
Q: Which matters more: rating or NRPS?
NRPS usually carries more weight—it shows consistency. Ratings are shorthand benchmarks.
Q: Can a D-rated fencer be recruited?
Yes, especially at DIII or mid-tier DI schools, if academics and trajectory are strong.
Q: How do regional points compare to national points?
Regional = momentum. National = readiness. Coaches value the latter more.
Q: When can coaches contact recruits?
After June 15 following sophomore year, per NCAA rules. (USA Fencing NCAA Resource)
Final Takeaway
🚀 Two paths from here:
Keep learning (free): Explore our Fencing Scholarship Resource for NCAA rules, timelines, and division-by-division insights.
Move faster (paid): Get the Fencing Playbook for Parents—the complete roadmap with timelines, templates, outreach scripts, and planning tools trusted by NCAA families.
If you want your child’s fencing profile to get seen—not ignored—the Resource + Playbook combo is your competitive edge.
“I try to recruit student-athletes who will be a good fit with my program.” — Jennie Salmon, Head Fencing Coach, Temple University (USA Fencing)
“Include who you are, where you're from, GPA/accolades, club, rating (if any), weapon…” — advice from a Division I coach on Reddit
Most parents assume that a single tournament medal or an “A” rating guarantees their child a spot on an NCAA fencing roster. The truth? Coaches care just as much about trends, consistency, and fit as they do about letters and medals.
In this resource, we’ll explain how NCAA coaches interpret fencing ratings, national point rankings, and even international results, plus how you can make your athlete’s recruiting profile stand out.
For the broader recruiting picture, including timelines, NCAA rules, and scholarship breakdowns, explore our Fencing Scholarship Resource.
TL;DR (Quick Takeaways)
Ratings (A–E) are earned at tournaments with defined “group strength” levels (A4, A3, etc.).
National Rolling Points (NRPS) measure consistency across major events, not just one good day.
International rankings (FIE) are most relevant for athletes targeting elite Division I programs.
Coaches value upward trends and strength of field over isolated wins.
Academics remain a deal-breaker: GPA and test scores matter as much as ratings.
Glossary of Ratings, Points & Rankings
Term | Meaning | Why It Matters |
|---|---|---|
Rating (A–E, U) | Classification earned by performance at sanctioned events | Coaches use as shorthand for ability |
NRPS (National Rolling Points) | Ongoing points list for Cadet, Junior, Senior | Shows consistency and readiness for nationals |
Regional Points (RJCC/ROC) | Region-based standings | Signal growth before scaling to national level |
FIE Rankings | International points for World Cups/Grand Prix | Benchmark for high-end DI recruiting |
We break down how these recruiting metrics connect to timelines and coach communication in our Fencing Scholarship Resource.
USA Fencing Ratings (A–E): What They Really Mean
Group Strength & Event Classifications
Ratings are awarded based on the strength of the field.
Example: Division I NACs and Nationals are always Group A4, meaning they award more top-level ratings.
Local events only award ratings if they meet minimum participation and referee standards (Classification Reference Chart, USA Fencing).
How Coaches Read Ratings
Is the rating recent?
Was it earned against a strong field (lots of As and Bs)?
Does the athlete’s resume show progression (D → C → B)?
Coach Insight Box:
“A new C from a deep Junior NAC often tells me more about potential than an old A earned at a weak local event.” — anonymized Division I assistant coach
National Rolling Points (NRPS): The Consistency Signal
NRPS rankings track fencers across NACs, Junior Olympics, and Nationals. (USA Fencing NRPS standings)
They’re used for seeding, qualification, and as a consistency metric.
Coaches often notice trend more than rank.
Example:
Fencer A: Top-8 finish once, but mostly outside top 128 → less appealing.
Fencer B: Steady climb from 120 → 65 → 32 → very appealing.
See how NRPS trends tie into recruiting opportunities in our Fencing Scholarship Resource
Regional Points (RJCCs / ROCs): Building Blocks
Regional Junior/Cadet Circuits (RJCCs) and ROCs let athletes earn points closer to home.
They show progression and readiness but don’t carry the same national weight.
Coaches interpret these as developmental stepping stones.
FIE / International Rankings: For Top-Tier Division I
International FIE rankings matter for recruits aiming at programs like Notre Dame, Columbia, or Harvard.
Even one or two FIE results (World Cup or Grand Prix) can differentiate a fencer in the recruiting pool. (FIE Rankings)
How NCAA Coaches Evaluate Your Profile
Trend Over Title → Progression beats one-off medals.
Strength of Field → Results at NACs > results at local opens.
Division Fit
Top DI: NRPS presence, international experience.
Mid-DI/DIII: Consistency + academics.
Academic Compatibility → GPA/test scores are non-negotiable.
Character & Leadership → Coaches seek team players as much as medalists.
For recruiting rules by division and NCAA communication dates, see our Fencing Scholarship Resource
NCAA Fencing Recruiting Key Dates
Division I
Recruiting Communication: June 15 after Sophomore year (calls, emails, DMs, texts allowed)
In-Person Contact: August 1 before Junior year (off-campus meetings + conversations)
Official Visits: Begin August 1 before Junior year (college-funded)
Unofficial Visits: Anytime, but no recruiting conversations until August 1 before Junior year
Division II
Recruiting Communication: 9th grade (calls, emails, DMs, texts allowed)
In-Person Contact: June 15 before Junior year (off-campus meetings + conversations)
Official Visits: Begin June 15 before Junior year (college-funded)
Unofficial Visits: Anytime, but no recruiting conversations until June 15 before Junior year
Division III
Recruiting Communication: During Sophomore year (emails, DMs, off-campus contact allowed)
In-Person Contact: Allowed during Sophomore year (earlier than DI/DII)
Official Visits: January 1 of Junior year (college-funded)
Unofficial Visits: Anytime, and recruiting conversations may occur earlier than DI/DII
📌 Tip for Families: NCAA timelines vary, but Division III is the most flexible, while Division I has the strictest restrictions. Always confirm the most up-to-date rules at NCAA.org.
Benchmarks & Planning Your Season
Level | Typical Rating / Rank | Event Priorities |
|---|---|---|
DIII / Early DI Interest | C / Top 500 | Local opens, RJCCs, occasional NACs |
Mid-level DI | B / Top 200 | NACs, Junior Olympics, Nationals |
Top DI / National Team Track | A / Top 25 | Nationals, World Cups, FIE |
Pro Tip Box:
Parents often overemphasize “letter rating.” In reality, NRPS trends + academics usually decide whether a coach responds.
Highlight Video That Matches the Numbers
2–3 minutes, edited for clarity.
Show footwork, tactical decisions, and composure—not just winning touches.
Include context (opponent, score, round) to prove it’s against real competition.
Coaches skim dozens; keep it professional.
For email templates to send videos to coaches, check out the Fencing Playbook for Parents
FAQs (SEO + Voice Search Optimized)
Q: Do fencing ratings expire?
Yes. Ratings drop after 4 years if not re-earned.
Q: Which matters more: rating or NRPS?
NRPS usually carries more weight—it shows consistency. Ratings are shorthand benchmarks.
Q: Can a D-rated fencer be recruited?
Yes, especially at DIII or mid-tier DI schools, if academics and trajectory are strong.
Q: How do regional points compare to national points?
Regional = momentum. National = readiness. Coaches value the latter more.
Q: When can coaches contact recruits?
After June 15 following sophomore year, per NCAA rules. (USA Fencing NCAA Resource)
Final Takeaway
🚀 Two paths from here:
Keep learning (free): Explore our Fencing Scholarship Resource for NCAA rules, timelines, and division-by-division insights.
Move faster (paid): Get the Fencing Playbook for Parents—the complete roadmap with timelines, templates, outreach scripts, and planning tools trusted by NCAA families.
If you want your child’s fencing profile to get seen—not ignored—the Resource + Playbook combo is your competitive edge.
