The 1996 Major League Soccer College Draft was held on March 4, 1996, in Fort Lauderdale, Florida.
As the teams were being created at the same time, the league adopted a measured approach to building rosters.
Then on February 6 and 7, 1996, the league held its 1996 MLS Inaugural Player Draft.
Over sixteen rounds, teams selected players from any source.
Then on March 4, 1996, the league held a three-round draft of collegiate players.