College football referees are paid on a per-game basis, with compensation levels varying widely across divisions and conferences. For many officials, the earnings represent a strong seasonal income, especially at the upper levels of the sport.
At the Division I Football Bowl Subdivision (FBS) level, referees can expect the highest pay. Per-game fees often fall between $3,000 and $5,000, particularly in Power Five conferences. Games with national television exposure or major rivalries may be at the upper end of that range. Postseason contests—such as bowl games or playoff matchups—are even more lucrative, with officials earning premiums on top of regular-season rates.
Officials in the Division I Football Championship Subdivision (FCS) are typically paid between $1,000 and $2,500 per game. These games still demand high-quality officiating and significant travel, but the budgets of FCS programs are smaller compared to FBS schools.
At the Division II and Division III levels, pay is lower but consistent. Referees generally receive $300 to $1,000 per game, depending on the conference and distance traveled. These assignments often include mileage reimbursement and per diem allowances for overnight trips.
Postseason assignments represent a meaningful boost in income. Playoff officials, as well as those selected for championship or bowl games, not only earn higher game fees but also add to their professional profile, making them more likely to be chosen for future high-level assignments.
In addition to base pay, referees are commonly reimbursed for expenses like mileage, airfare, meals, and hotels when games require travel. Some conferences standardize these reimbursements, while others handle them on a case-by-case basis depending on distance and logistics.
Most referees will work 10–15 games per season, depending on scheduling, availability, and postseason selections. A full workload at the FBS level can bring annual earnings to $40,000–$60,000, while referees working in lower divisions earn less overall but still benefit from steady part-time income.
College football referee pay sits between high school officiating and the NFL. High school referees often earn under $200 per game, while NFL officials are contracted employees with annual salaries well into six figures. College football, especially in the FBS, provides one of the most lucrative officiating opportunities outside of the professional ranks.
Referees in college football can earn anywhere from a few hundred dollars to several thousand per game, depending on the division. Those working in Division I FBS conferences are paid the most, especially when postseason games are included. While it isn’t a full-time job for most officials, college football refereeing offers a competitive income during the season and remains one of the most financially rewarding levels of officiating below the NFL.
