Age Classifications
USA Junior Volleyball — Age Division Definitions, 2026–2027 Season
We recommend that you try out for your GRADE (Fall of 2026).
Division Definitions
| Division | Grade | Birth Date Requirement |
|---|---|---|
| 18U / Seniors | 12th | Born on or after July 1, 2008 — or born on or after July 1, 2007 and a high school student during the current academic year |
| 17U / Juniors | 11th | Born on or after July 1, 2009 |
| 16U / Sophomore | 10th | Born on or after July 1, 2010 |
| 15U / Freshman | 9th | Born on or after July 1, 2011 |
| 14U / 8th Grade | 8th | Born on or after July 1, 2012 |
| 13U / 7th Grade | 7th | Born on or after July 1, 2013 |
| 12U / 6th Grade | 6th | Born on or after July 1, 2014 |
| 11U / 5th Grade | 5th | Born on or after July 1, 2015 |
| 10U / 4th Grade | 4th | Must still be 10 by July 1, 2016 |
Important Age Waiver Information
To determine which age division you should try out for, figure out how old you will be as of June 30th, 2027.
Special Note: 10U / 11U players in 4th and 5th grade can play on 10U teams as beginners.
Important Age Waiver Information
- If your athlete is 12 by AAU age classifications but in 7th grade → try out for 13U
- If your athlete is 14 by AAU age classifications but in 8th grade → try out for 14U
- If your athlete is 14 by AAU age classifications but in 9th grade → try out for 15U
MJVBA Modifications — Michigan Only
This allows players with early-summer birthdays to compete with their age grouping, but will not allow students who are a full year ahead in age and physical maturity to compete in a lesser age division.
No age waivers are allowed at the National Championships or Super Regionals.