Before playing in the NHL, Toews played college hockey for 2 years at the University of North Dakota. During his time there, he contributed 85 points (40 goals, 45 assists), a plus-38 rating and a 56.7% faceoff winning percentage in 76 games. He was also able to help UND reach the NCAA Frozen Four in both 2006 and 2007 and served as their alternate captain during his sophomore season He helped UND win the Broadmoor Cup as WCHA champions and he was also named the West Regional MVP after he tallied five points. Before he went into the 2006 NHL Entry Draft, the NHL Central Scouting Bureau ranked Toews third among North American prospects He was drafted with the 3rd overall pick by the Chicago Blackhawks in the 2006 NHL Entry Draft.