MLS NEXT age groups (2026-27)
MLS NEXT determines age groups for 2026-27 with two systems: the Academy Division uses seasonal-year (August 1 - July 31), while the Homegrown Division continues on calendar-year (January 1 - December 31) to align with FIFA international rules.
Division rules at a glance
| Division | Age system | Cutoff |
|---|---|---|
| Academy | Seasonal year | August 1 - July 31 |
| Homegrown | Calendar year | January 1 - December 31 |
Frequently asked questions
How does MLS NEXT determine age groups for 2026-27?+
The MLS NEXT Academy Division uses a seasonal-year (August 1 - July 31) system starting 2026-27. The MLS NEXT Homegrown Division continues to use the calendar-year (January 1 - December 31) system.
What is the difference between MLS NEXT Academy and Homegrown?+
Academy is the primary MLS NEXT competition and uses seasonal-year age groups. Homegrown is the pathway for MLS academy prospects and stays on birth-year age groups to align with international standards.
Do MLS academies always use MLS NEXT age rules?+
Yes. MLS-affiliated academies operate within MLS NEXT and follow whichever division they play in.
Is MLS NEXT the same as US Youth Soccer?+
No. MLS NEXT is a separate elite youth competition operated by Major League Soccer. Its age system now largely mirrors US Youth Soccer in Academy but differs in Homegrown.
Why does Homegrown keep birth-year age groups?+
Homegrown aligns with FIFA and international youth transfer rules, which use calendar-year age groups.
Can players compete in both divisions?+
Movement between divisions is possible per MLS NEXT roster rules, but a player competes in one division at a time.