Overwatch Collegiate returns with new varsity division and scholarships

In simpler terms, college-level esports for Overwatch 2 have been introduced. Here’s an easy-to-understand guide on how the updated Overwatch College Program operates and how you can join.

Looks like it’s about time I don my Sophomore Ruiz Illari or Delinquent Cole Cassidy skin! Exciting news, Blizzard Entertainment has brought back Overwatch Collegiate. The season for 2025 to 2026 kicks off this fall and will be partnering with the National Association of Collegiate Esports (NACE). Can’t wait to see what’s in store!

Overwatch 2 esports gets collegiate program

The updated Overwatch Collegiate program now offers two season-long competitions, an introduction of a varsity division, a live tournament final on-site, and more than $140,000 worth of scholarships up for grabs. If you’re eager to participate, sign up right away!

Overwatch Collegiate schedule and calendar

For the academic years 2025-2026, the Overwatch Collegiate program encompasses two major events: the Fall Homecoming 2025 season and the Spring Championship in the following year. Participating players can join either the Open or Varsity tournaments. The Open competition is open to qualifying educational institutions across the U.S. and Canada, whereas the Varsity division caters to institutions that are part of the National Association of Collegiate Esports (NACE).

Overwatch Collegiate National Open explained

During the Fall Homecoming 2025 season, The National Open will take place. This competition consists of two main phases: the initial phase starting on October 2nd, followed by the second phase commencing on November 8th. Both the Swiss and Playoff stages are included in this event.

National OpenDetails
RegistrationRegistration goes from Aug. 5 to Sept. 22.
RequirementsCreate a LeagueSpot account with a verified student email.
Stage 1 (Swiss)Stage 1 goes from Oct. 2 to Oct. 30.
This stage involves 10 rounds of swiss played over five weeks.
Stage 2 (Playoffs)Stage 2 goes from Nov 8. to Nov. 6.
This stage involves 16-team, single-elimination matches played over two weeks.
PrizingThe National Open features $28,000 USD in scholarships.

Overwatch Collegiate Varsity Premier explained

During the Fall Homecoming 2025, the Varsity division will host its premier competition, which includes both Group stages and Playoff rounds. The Group stages commence on September 8th, followed by the Playoffs starting on November 3rd. In all, the Fall Homecoming 2025 season offers a total prize pool of $42,000 USD.

Varsity PremierDetails
RegistrationRegistration goes from Aug 5. to Sept. 2.
RequirementsYour school must be an NACE member and players need a LeagueSpot account with verified student email.
Stage 1 (Groups)Stage 1 goes from Sept. 8 to Oct. 20.
This stage involves up to seven rounds of round robin played over seven weeks.
Stage 2 (Playoffs)Stage 2 goes from Nov. 3 to Nov. 16.
This stage involves 32 teams and single-elimination matches played over three weeks.
PrizingThe Varsity Premier features $14,000 USD in scholarships.

Overwatch Collegiate Homecoming Varsity Plus explained

As a devoted fan, I’m thrilled to share that there’s an extra special event coming up for NACE schools – it’s called Homecoming Varsity Plus! This event offers us the opportunity to field additional teams beyond our regular Varsity Premier slot. It’s structured around skill divisions based on rankings, and it encompasses Regional Ranked Division Groups and Playoff stages. The first round commences on September 15, with the second stage set to begin on November 3. Let’s gear up and show our school spirit!

Homecoming Varsity PlusDetails
RegistrationRegistration goes from Aug 5. to Sept. 8.
RequirementsYour school must be an NACE member and players need a LeagueSpot account with verified student email.
Stage 1 (Groups)Stage 1 goes from Sept. 15 to Oct. 30.
This stage involves up to seven rounds of round robin played over seven weeks.
Stage 2 (Playoffs)Stage 2 goes from Nov. 3 to Nov. 17.
This stage involves six teams and single-elimination matches played over three weeks.

Overwatch Collegiate Spring Championship 2026

For the Spring Championship series, registration will open following the wrap-up of the Fall Homecoming 2025 season. This tournament’s LAN finals offer a total of $100,000 USD in scholarship awards.

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2025-08-12 01:13