FAQ

Athletic scholarships are typically offered by high schools, colleges and universities, particularly in the United States and Canada. They can cover part or all of a student-athlete’s tuition, room, board, and other expenses.

Yes, high school athletes can receive athletic scholarships from colleges and universities. However, these are typically awarded during the recruitment process as the athlete prepares to graduate and enter college.

Athletic scholarships can vary in their coverage, ranging from full-ride scholarships to partial scholarships. Full-ride scholarships cover the student-athlete’s tuition, fees, room, board, and textbooks, providing comprehensive financial support. However, not all sports or institutions offer full-ride scholarships, and many student-athletes receive partial scholarships that cover a portion of their educational expenses.

Student-athletes who receive athletic scholarships have certain obligations they must fulfill. These typically include maintaining satisfactory academic progress, abiding by the rules and regulations set by the NCAA or other governing bodies, participating in team practices and competitions, and representing their institution both on and off the field. Additionally, student-athletes may be required to meet certain performance standards or maintain a minimum GPA to retain their scholarships.

Post-grad athletes, or those who’ve already graduated from high school but choose to take a gap year to improve their skills or academic profile, can still earn scholarships. They typically work on their game, often at a prep school, while also being actively involved in the recruitment process.

Athletic scholarships can be renewed each year, but they are not always guaranteed for all four years of college. Some scholarships are one-year contracts that must be renewed annually. However, as of 2015, the NCAA allows Division I schools to offer multi-year scholarships.

Yes, athletic scholarships can be lost. Reasons can include academic ineligibility, injury, or violation of school policies or codes of conduct. Furthermore, coaches may decide not to renew an athlete’s scholarship based on athletic performance.

Coaches consider a variety of factors when deciding who receives an athletic scholarship. These include the athlete’s skill level and potential, the team’s needs, the athlete’s academic standing, and the coach’s available scholarship budget.

Athletic scholarships are available for a wide range of sports, but not all. The NCAA offers scholarships for many sports, while other organizations, like the NAIA or junior colleges, may offer scholarships for additional sports. It also varies by gender and depends on the sport’s revenue-generating potential.

Yes, international students can receive athletic scholarships in the United States. They must meet eligibility requirements and comply with visa regulations, which may include proving English language proficiency and maintaining full-time student status.

Yes, in many cases student-athletes can stack or combine academic and athletic scholarships, although policies can vary by school. It’s important for student-athletes to discuss this with their prospective school’s financial aid office.

The NCAA’s primary goal is to maintain the well-being and success of college athletes. It ensures fair competition, establishes rules for various sports, and oversees recruitment processes, eligibility requirements, and athletic scholarships.

The NCAA plays a significant role in college athletics by establishing and enforcing rules and regulations to ensure fair competition, protecting the amateur status of student-athletes, and promoting the overall well-being of student-athletes.

1. Rule enforcement: The NCAA establishes rules regarding eligibility, recruiting, scholarships, and ethical conduct for member institutions. It investigates and imposes penalties for violations of these rules, including sanctions and postseason bans.
2. Championships and events: The NCAA organizes and administers national championships in a wide range of sports across all divisions. These championships provide opportunities for student-athletes to compete at the highest level and showcase their skills.
3. Student-athlete welfare: The NCAA promotes the well-being and academic success of student-athletes. It sets guidelines for academic eligibility and monitors the academic progress

The NCAA is divided into three main divisions based on the size, resources, and competitiveness of the member institutions. Each division has its own set of rules and regulations regarding eligibility, scholarships, and recruiting.

1. Division I: This is the highest level of competition within the NCAA and includes larger universities with extensive athletic programs. Division I schools offer a wide range of sports and provide scholarships to student-athletes. They often have substantial resources and generate significant revenue through television contracts and sponsorships.
2. Division II: This division consists of smaller colleges and universities that generally have fewer athletic resources compared to Division I schools. Division II institutions offer athletic scholarships but to a lesser extent than Division I. The focus in Division II is often on a balance between academics and athletics.
3. Division III: Division III institutions prioritize the academic experience of student-athletes and do not offer athletic scholarships. These colleges and universities place a greater emphasis on participation and a well-rounded student-athlete experience. Division III sports are typically less competitive, but student-athletes can still excel in their chosen sports.

The NCAA regulates a wide range of sports, including football, basketball, baseball, softball, soccer, volleyball, gymnastics, rowing, golf, tennis, track and field, swimming and diving, wrestling, and more.

To be eligible for an NCAA scholarship, you must meet certain requirements set by the NCAA and the participating colleges or universities. These requirements may vary slightly among institutions, but generally, you need to demonstrate strong athletic ability, academic proficiency, and good character. Exceptional skills and potential in your sport, along with participation in competitions and recognition for your athletic performance and academic standards are important. Learn more here

The NCAA Eligibility Center certifies the academic and amateur credentials of all college-bound student-athletes who wish to compete in NCAA Division I or II athletics. It ensures they meet the established academic standards and have maintained their amateur status.

The NCAA has rules about how many scholarships can be offered per sport, per school, and it varies by division. In general, Division I and II schools can offer athletic scholarships, but Division III schools cannot. Scholarships can be full or partial, depending on the sport and the school’s budget.

The NCAA Transfer Portal is an online platform that contains a list of student-athletes who have expressed an interest in transferring from their current college. It provides a streamlined, transparent transfer process for student-athletes.

The NCAA organizes the post-season championships for most sports. The most notable of these is the NCAA Division I Men’s Basketball Tournament, often referred to as “March Madness.”

The NCAA offers a variety of resources to support the well-being of student-athletes. This includes regulations on practice hours to protect students’ time, mental health resources, and programs to support academic success, among other things.

Yes, a student-athlete can redshirt in NCAA sports, meaning they delay their participation in order to lengthen their period of eligibility. A redshirt student-athlete may practice with the team but may not compete in games..

Yes, the NCAA regulates the amount of time student-athletes can spend on athletically related activities to ensure they have sufficient time for academic commitments.

The NCAA enforces its rules and regulations and penalizes institutions and individuals for violations. Sanctions can range from fines and loss of scholarships to postseason bans and vacating of wins.

The NAIA’s mission is to promote the education and development of students through intercollegiate athletic participation. Like the NCAA, it establishes rules for competition, oversees eligibility and recruitment processes, and supports the academic and personal development of student-athletes.

Unlike the NCAA, the NAIA only has one division for all of its sports.

The NAIA oversees a wide range of sports including, but not limited to, football, basketball, baseball, softball, soccer, volleyball, golf, tennis, cross country, track and field, and swimming and diving.

The NAIA offers various types of scholarships to support student-athletes in their pursuit of higher education. These scholarships can be categorized into two main types: institutional scholarships and association scholarships.

To be eligible for an NAIA scholarship, you need to meet specific requirements set by the NAIA and the participating colleges or universities. The criteria may vary slightly between institutions, but generally, you must demonstrate strong athletic ability, academic proficiency, and good character. Find out more

The NAIA’s recruiting rules are less restrictive than the NCAA’s. There are no recruiting calendars or dead periods, which means coaches can contact student-athletes at any time. However, student-athletes must have their amateur status confirmed by the NAIA Eligibility Center before they can play.

The NAIA Eligibility Center reviews the academic qualifications and amateurism status of all student-athletes interested in participating at an NAIA institution. It ensures they meet the necessary academic standards and maintain their amateur status.

The NAIA does not have a transfer portal like the NCAA. However, NAIA institutions do accept transfer students, and the rules for transfer student-athletes can be found in the NAIA Handbook.

Similar to the NCAA, the NAIA organizes national championships for many of its sports. These tournaments offer student-athletes the chance to compete at a high level and culminate their seasons.

The NAIA offers various resources to support student-athlete well-being. This includes the Champions of Character program, which aims to instill five core values in NAIA athletes: integrity, respect, responsibility, sportsmanship, and servant leadership. The NAIA also provides resources to support academic success and personal development.

Yes, a student-athlete can redshirt in NAIA sports, preserving a year of competition. Redshirt athletes can practice with the team but may not compete in games.

Junior College programs offer a wide range of sports, including both team and individual sports. Common team sports include basketball, soccer, volleyball, and football. Individual sports such as track and field, swimming, tennis, golf, wrestling, and cross country are also frequently offered. The specific sports offered may vary depending on the college and its resources.

The National Junior College Athletic Association (NJCAA) is the main governing body for athletics at junior colleges in the United States. There are also other regional organizations like the California Community College Athletic Association (CCCAA).

Yes, student-athletes in Junior College have the opportunity to receive scholarships, although the availability and amount of scholarships may vary between colleges and sports programs. Scholarships can help offset the cost of tuition, fees, and other expenses associated with attending college. It’s important to note that scholarships may be merit-based, talent-based, or a combination of both, and eligibility criteria will depend on the specific college and athletic program.

The recruitment process at junior colleges is similar to that of four-year institutions. Coaches scout and recruit high school athletes, attend showcases and tournaments, and invite athletes for official and unofficial visits.

Yes, many student-athletes use Junior College as a pathway to transfer to four-year colleges or universities. Participating in Junior College allows athletes to continue developing their skills and academic credentials while catching the attention of coaches at higher-level institutions. Transferring to a four-year college from a junior college typically involves meeting specific academic requirements, such as earning a certain number of credits and maintaining a minimum GPA.

Yes, international students are eligible to play sports at junior colleges. They must meet the same eligibility requirements as domestic students and must also comply with visa regulations.

Playing sports at a junior college can provide opportunities for development and exposure without the immediate pressure of a four-year institution. It also allows student-athletes to improve their academic profile, save money, and adapt to the demands of college athletics.

The NJCAA is divided into three divisions, similar to the NCAA. Division I schools can offer full athletic scholarships, Division II schools can offer partial scholarships, and Division III schools do not offer athletic scholarships.

To be eligible to compete in NJCAA sports, student-athletes must have graduated from high school or have earned a high school equivalency diploma. Full-time enrollment at the college is also required.

Yes, student-athletes can redshirt in NJCAA sports. This means they can be a part of the team and practice, but do not compete in games, preserving a year of eligibility.

The transfer process from an NJCAA school to an NCAA school varies depending on the student-athlete’s academic standing and the rules of the specific NCAA division. In general, student-athletes need to meet certain academic requirements to be immediately eligible to compete.

Yes, similar to other collegiate athletic associations, the NJCAA has rules regarding the number of hours a student-athlete can spend on countable athletically related activities (CARA), which include practices and games, to ensure they also have time for academics and personal development.

If an NJCAA member school is found to be in violation of NJCAA rules, they may be subject to sanctions. This can include penalties such as loss of scholarships, postseason bans, and fines.

The recruitment process for international high school athletes often involves showcasing skills through sports performance videos, maintaining strong academic performance, reaching out to coaches at U.S. schools, and possibly attending sports camps or showcases.

Yes, there are typically academic eligibility requirements for international high school athletes. These can vary by school, but often include proving English proficiency (through tests like the TOEFL or Duolingo English Test) and meeting certain academic standards in home country schools.

A postgraduate year is an additional year of high school after a student has already graduated. PG programs offer student-athletes an opportunity to improve their athletic skills and/or academic performance in order to increase their chances of getting recruited by a college program.

Yes, international athletes can do a PG year at a U.S. high school or prep school. This can be a good opportunity to adjust to the U.S. academic system and athletic culture before starting college.

A PG year can improve your chances of getting a college scholarship by giving you additional time to develop your athletic skills, gain exposure to college recruiters, and improve your academic credentials.

Some schools do offer scholarships or financial aid for PG programs, but this varies widely by school. It’s important to discuss this directly with the schools you’re considering.

Playing high school sports in the U.S. can offer many benefits, such as improving your athletic skills under experienced coaches, gaining exposure to college recruiters, and experiencing the U.S. education system and culture.

You can find U.S. high schools or PG programs that offer your sport through various online directories and sports recruitment platforms. It can also be helpful to work with a recruitment consultant or agency that specializes in placing international student-athletes in U.S. schools.

An athletic profile should generally include your personal information, athletic stats and achievements, academic achievements, a skills video, references from coaches or trainers, and a personal statement about your goals as a student-athlete.

The sports offered can vary by school, but common sports at U.S. high schools and prep schools include football, basketball, soccer, baseball, softball, volleyball, track and field, cross country, wrestling, golf, swimming, tennis, and others.

Yes, many U.S. high schools and prep schools encourage prospective international student-athletes to visit the school before making a decision. During a visit, you might tour the campus, meet with coaches and teachers, sit in on classes, and attend a sports practice or game.

If you do a PG year, you would generally go through the college application process during that year. This can include taking standardized tests, filling out applications, writing essays, and applying for financial aid.

Postgraduate basketball programs typically require that you have completed high school but have not yet started college. You should have a strong basketball skillset, a good academic record, and a desire to improve your game and academics in preparation for college. Specific requirements can vary by program, so it’s best to check with individual schools.

College basketball recruiting often begins with athletes reaching out to coaches or vice versa. Coaches evaluate potential recruits through their game tapes, performances at tournaments or camps, and sometimes through scouting visits. They also consider the athlete’s academic record. If a coach is interested, they may offer a scholarship or a place on the team. The athlete can then commit to the school, often by signing a National Letter of Intent.

Division I, II, and III represent different levels of college sports competition within the NCAA. Division I has the largest athletic budgets and the most athletic scholarships. Division II schools offer some athletic scholarships but also place a high value on balance between athletics and academics. Division III schools do not offer athletic scholarships but do provide other forms of financial aid.

A basketball highlight video should include clips of your best plays, demonstrating a variety of skills. Make sure the footage is clear and the action is easy to follow. It’s best to start the video with your most impressive highlights to capture coaches’ attention. Include your name, position, jersey number, and contact information.

To maintain your amateur status, you should not accept payment or gifts based on your basketball abilities, sign a contract with a professional team, or hire an agent. You can receive an athletic scholarship from a college, but the amount should not exceed the cost of tuition, room and board, and textbooks. Always check with the NCAA or your school’s compliance office if you’re unsure about any situation.

U.S. high schools and colleges often welcome international basketball players who bring diverse skills and perspectives to their teams. International players may have opportunities to earn athletic scholarships, receive a high-quality education, and develop their basketball skills against high-level competition.

The weekly schedule for a student-athlete playing basketball typically includes classes, study time, practices, games, strength and conditioning training, meetings with coaches or team, and travel for away games. Schedules can vary greatly depending on the level of play (high school, postgrad, college), the time of year (in-season vs. off-season), and the specific program.

To prepare physically, focus on conditioning, strength training, and skill development. Eating a healthy diet and getting enough rest are also crucial. To prepare mentally, develop a strong work ethic, learn to handle pressure, and build mental toughness. Seek out the advice and support of coaches, trainers, and sports psychologists.

High school basketball varies greatly depending on the region and league but is often the first level where athletes face structured competition. Postgrad programs are more competitive, often providing a bridge for athletes who are not quite ready for college basketball. College basketball, particularly at the NCAA Division I level, is highly competitive with athletes often aiming for professional careers. The style of play can become more strategic and faster-paced at higher levels.

Some top high school basketball leagues include the National Interscholastic Basketball Conference (NIBC), the Washington Catholic Athletic Conference (WCAC), and the Southern Section of the California Interscholastic Federation (CIF-SS). These leagues are known for the high level of competition, the number of athletes they send to Division I colleges, and their rigorous schedules.

U.S. college basketball is often characterized by a fast-paced, physical style of play. There’s a focus on athleticism, transition play, and individual talent. International basketball, particularly in Europe, tends to have more emphasis on fundamentals, team play, and strategic execution.

Some of the top college basketball conferences include the Atlantic Coast Conference (ACC), Big Ten, Southeastern Conference (SEC), and the Big 12. These conferences often influence the recruiting process as they’re known for their competitiveness and high level of exposure, which can be attractive to recruits.

The NBA is widely regarded as the top professional basketball league in the world, featuring a high level of athleticism, skill, and competitiveness. However, many international leagues, particularly in Europe, offer strong competition and feature a more tactical, team-oriented style of play.

The number varies depending on the school and division. For example, NCAA Division I Men’s Soccer teams can offer up to 9.9 scholarships, while Women’s teams can offer up to 14.

D1 soccer scholarships can range from partial scholarships to full-ride scholarships, depending on the university and the athlete’s skill level.

Not necessarily. Some scholarships are ‘full rides’ that cover tuition, room, and board. However, most are partial scholarships that cover a portion of these costs.

Scholarships are usually awarded on a year-to-year basis, but some schools offer multi-year scholarships.

Division III schools do not offer athletic scholarships, but they do offer academic scholarships and financial aid.

Beyond showcasing your talent and skills in the sport, maintaining strong academics, building a compelling player profile, and promoting it effectively can improve your chances. Engaging in community service, demonstrating leadership abilities, and cultivating a strong work ethic also set you apart.

The college soccer season is notably shorter than professional seasons, which can limit player development compared to year-round programs. However, it provides an intense, competitive environment, and also requires players to balance academics and athletics, teaching them valuable life skills.

The level of play in college soccer can be quite high, especially at top-tier NCAA schools. However, the level of competition in youth academies or semi-professional leagues may be more consistent, and these avenues often provide a more direct path to professional careers.

Yes, international students can receive soccer scholarships. However, they must meet the eligibility criteria set by the college and the athletic association. This usually includes academic requirements and proof of athletic prowess.

Programs such as Stanford, Maryland, Virginia (men’s), and North Carolina, Stanford, and Florida State (women’s) consistently rank at the top. Their success often comes from a combination of skilled recruiting, experienced coaching, excellent facilities, and a winning tradition.

International players bring diverse skill sets and styles of play to college soccer, often raising the level of competition. They can also influence the game tactically, bringing different soccer cultures and perspectives.

International players are often recruited through scouting networks, showcase tournaments, or recruitment services. Coaches review highlight reels and consult with scouts or coaches. Interested athletes must also meet academic requirements and obtain a student visa.

Yes, international students can apply for volleyball scholarships in the US. However, the process may involve additional steps, including demonstrating English proficiency and validating your academic credentials.

Yes, most institutions require student-athletes to undergo physical exams to ensure they are in good health and capable of handling the rigors of collegiate athletics. Additionally, some institutions might require drug tests.

High school volleyball can be competitive, especially in states and regions where the sport is popular. However, club volleyball often offers a higher level of competition, with teams traveling for regional and national tournaments. College volleyball, particularly at the NCAA Division I level, is even more competitive.

Top high school volleyball leagues can vary by region, but generally include states like Texas, California, and Florida, where the sport is highly popular and competitive. These states have high school leagues and tournaments that are often a breeding ground for future collegiate players.

Top college volleyball conferences include the Pac-12, Big Ten, and the Big 12 for both men’s and women’s volleyball. These conferences are known for their competitiveness and often dominate the national rankings.

Your athletic portfolio should contain your stats, awards, personal records, and any press coverage you’ve received. It’s also beneficial to include video footage of your performance in matches or training sessions. This will give recruiters a more comprehensive view of your skills and potential.

NCAA Division I volleyball is typically the highest level of college competition, with a focus on power and speed. NAIA and junior college volleyball, while still competitive, might focus more on development and provide athletes with more playing time early in their college careers.

Adapting to U.S. volleyball often involves developing physical strength and quickness, as well as understanding the fast-paced style of the game. It also requires learning to communicate effectively with teammates and coaches, often in a second language.

While individual skills like serving, blocking, and setting are important, recruiters also look for players who display good court awareness, communication skills, and the ability to work as part of a team.

Opportunities exist in the U.S. professional leagues, though many top players opt to play in more established leagues abroad. Additionally, beach volleyball offers professional opportunities both domestically and internationally.

After graduating, you could have the opportunity to play volleyball professionally, either domestically or internationally. You could also pursue coaching or related athletic professions. Additionally, the degree you earn will open doors to careers in your chosen field of study.

Unlike some countries with professional youth academies, the U.S. pathway often involves progression from high school to club to college volleyball. However, club volleyball, which often involves travel and exposure to high-level tournaments, can be comparable to the academy experience in other countries.

High school tennis can vary greatly in competitiveness. USTA/ITF junior tennis tournaments tend to have a higher level of competition, attracting top junior players nationally and internationally. College tennis, particularly at the NCAA Division I level, is even more competitive, often featuring players with high national or international junior rankings.

UTR is a rating system that provides a single, unifying scale to rate the skill level of players regardless of age, gender, or location. Many college coaches use UTR when recruiting to gauge a player’s level of play. A higher UTR often increases a player’s chances of being recruited.

College tennis often emphasizes team play, as points earned by each player contribute to the team’s overall score. Matches are also shorter, often leading to more aggressive play. International tennis, especially on the professional circuit, is individual-based and matches can be longer, emphasizing endurance and strategic point construction.

The SEC, ACC, and Pac-12 are often considered top conferences in NCAA Division I tennis for both men and women, featuring highly competitive play and a number of nationally ranked programs.

NCAA Division I tennis is often the highest level of collegiate competition, attracting top national and international players. NAIA and junior college tennis, while still competitive, might provide more playing time and development opportunities for athletes early in their college careers.

Adapting to U.S. tennis often involves improving physical conditioning due to the shorter, more intense matches, and learning to work within a team dynamic. Developing mental toughness is also key due to the frequent pressure situations in college matches.

Playing at different levels exposes athletes to various degrees of competition, helping them develop their skills, tactics, and mental strength. Balancing academics and athletics can also foster discipline and time management skills.

Many college players transition to the professional circuit after their college careers, competing in lower-level pro tournaments (Futures and Challengers) to earn ATP/WTA points and improve their rankings. Some may also become tennis coaches or go into related fields.

College coaches recruit international players based on their ITF junior ranking, UTR, tournament results, and video footage. Athletes must also meet academic requirements and obtain a student visa.

This depends on the level of the college program. For NCAA Division I, men often need a UTR of 12 or higher, and women a UTR of 9 or higher. However, lower-rated players may receive scholarships at lower-division schools. Additionally, having a high national or international junior ranking can increase chances.

In the U.S., many players progress from high school tennis to USTA/ITF junior tournaments to college tennis before turning professional. In other countries, players often compete in ITF junior tournaments and may turn professional directly after, bypassing college. However, more international players are now considering U.S. college tennis as a viable pathway to professional ranks.

High school rowing can be competitive, especially in certain regions. However, club rowing often provides a higher level of competition, with teams traveling for regional and national regattas. College rowing, particularly at the NCAA Division I level, is even more competitive, featuring some of the top rowers in the country.

The Interscholastic Rowing Association (IRA) and the Scholastic Rowing Association of America (SRAA) host competitive high school regattas. Regional leagues, like the Midwest Scholastic Rowing Association, also provide competitive opportunities.

This can vary depending on the program and the athlete’s gender and weight class. For NCAA Division I women’s programs, lightweight rowers typically have times under 7:30, and open weight rowers under 7:10. For men’s programs, lightweight rowers often have times under 6:40, and open weight rowers under 6:20.

The Ivy League is often considered top conference for men’s and women’s rowing.

Yes, rowing is an NCAA sport for women, but it’s not an NCAA sport for men. Women’s rowing is an equivalency sport in NCAA Division I and II, which means that schools can offer scholarships up to a set limit and distribute this funding among a larger number of athletes. However, men’s rowing is largely governed by the Intercollegiate Rowing Association, and scholarship opportunities for men’s rowing may vary depending on the individual college’s policy.

U.S. rowing often emphasizes both physical conditioning and technique work, and college programs typically have rigorous training schedules. International athletes will need to adapt to this intensive training regimen and also learn to balance their academics and athletics.

After college, rowers can continue to compete at the club level, or they can aim to row professionally by trying out for the U.S. national team or other national teams. Some also choose to become rowing coaches.

College coaches often recruit international rowers based on their 2k erg times, performance in regattas, and video footage of their rowing. Athletes must also meet academic requirements and secure a student visa.

This depends on the program and the athlete’s gender and weight class. However, strong 2k erg times (as mentioned above) are typically expected by college coaches. Besides erg times, coaches look for athletes with good technical skills and a strong work ethic.

Coaches often look for athletes with good height and strength, as these can be advantages in rowing. They also value athletes with solid technical skills, mental toughness, and a team-oriented attitude.

The ACT (American College Testing) is another widely accepted standardized test for college admissions in the United States. Like the SAT, it assesses a student’s knowledge and skills in various subject areas, including English, mathematics, reading, and science. However, there are some key differences between the ACT and SAT.

The TOEFL (Test of English as a Foreign Language) is an English proficiency test that assesses the ability of non-native English speakers to understand and use English at a university level. It is widely accepted by universities and colleges in English-speaking countries, primarily in the United States.

The Duolingo English Test is an online English proficiency test that can be taken online at any time. It’s used by some colleges and universities as an alternative to tests like TOEFL and IELTS.

Most U.S. colleges and universities require proof of English proficiency for international students whose first language is not English. This is often proven through tests like the TOEFL or the Duolingo English Test. However, requirements vary by school, so it’s important to check with each school you’re considering.

GPA stands for Grade Point Average. It’s a standard way of measuring academic achievement in the U.S. It’s calculated on a scale of 0 to 4.0 and is determined based on the grades earned in courses, weighted by the number of credit hours of the course.

Converting a GPA to U.S. standards varies depending on the grading system of the country where you studied. Some international education systems use a different scale to grade students. Typically, you will need to use a service or conversion chart that takes your grades, scales them to the equivalent U.S. grades, and then computes a GPA on a 4.0 scale.

Yes, student-athletes can choose any major offered by their institution. However, it’s important to consider the time demands of both the sport and the academic program.

To maintain academic eligibility, student-athletes must meet the minimum GPA requirements set by their athletic association (NCAA, NAIA, or NJCAA) and their institution. They must also be enrolled in a minimum number of course credits each term.

Academic redshirting is when a student intentionally delays enrolling in college after high school graduation or delays their participation in collegiate sports in order to improve their academic readiness. This can be beneficial for student-athletes who need more time to meet eligibility requirements.

Core courses refer to high school classes in the fields of English, Mathematics, Natural/Physical Science, Social Science, Foreign Language, Comparative Religion, or Philosophy. The NCAA and NAIA require student-athletes to complete a certain number of core courses for eligibility.

The NCAA uses a sliding scale to determine eligibility for Division I student-athletes. The sliding scale balances your GPA in core high school courses with your SAT/ACT scores. A higher GPA can offset lower test scores and vice versa.

To apply for a U.S. student visa, you first need to be accepted to a Student and Exchange Visitor Program (SEVP)-certified school. The school will provide you with a Form I-20, which you will need to complete your visa application. You’ll then pay the visa application fee, complete the online visa application (Form DS-160), schedule a visa interview at a U.S. Embassy or Consulate, and prepare for your interview.

The length of the visa process can vary based on several factors, including the time of year, your specific situation, and the specific U.S. Embassy or Consulate where you’re applying. Generally, you should start the process at least 3 to 5 months before you plan to arrive in the U.S.

During your visa interview, you will be asked about your plans for studying in the U.S., your financial ability to pay for your education, and your ties to your home country. The embassy wants to ensure that you intend to return to your home country after completing your studies.

The SEVIS fee is a fee for the Student and Exchange Visitor Information System, which is used to track international students in the U.S. You need to pay the SEVIS fee after you receive your Form I-20 but before your visa interview.

Parents can visit you in the U.S. while you study and play sports, but they typically cannot live with you permanently unless they have their own appropriate visa. For short visits, they can usually use a visitor visa (B-2).

On an F-1 visa, you can typically work on campus up to 20 hours per week during the school term and full-time during breaks. You may also be able to work off campus if it’s related to your field of study and you receive authorization for Curricular Practical Training (CPT) or Optional Practical Training (OPT).

Yes, you can usually travel back to your home country during school breaks. You should always ensure that your visa and Form I-20 are up to date before traveling, and you may need a travel signature from your school’s international student office.

After you finish your studies, you can usually stay in the U.S. for a short period known as the “grace period” (60 days for F-1 visa holders) to prepare for your departure. If you want to stay in the U.S. longer, you would need to change to another appropriate visa status.

If your visa application is denied, the consular officer should provide you with a reason for the denial. You can then address this issue and apply for a visa again. If you’re unsure why your application was denied or how to address the issue, you may want to consult with an immigration attorney or expert.

For your visa interview, you typically need to bring your valid passport, Form DS-160 confirmation page, payment receipt for the visa application fee, Form I-20 from your school, financial proof to support your education in the U.S., and any other documents that demonstrate your intent to return to your home country after your studies.

If you’re in the U.S. and your visa expires, you don’t need to renew it as long as you’re maintaining your student status. If you travel outside the U.S. and want to return, you may need to apply for a new visa if your visa has expired. This would typically involve paying the visa application fee again and scheduling a new visa interview.

Yes, you can change schools or programs on a student visa, but you need to update your SEVIS record and get a new Form I-20 from your new school. You should consult with the international student office at both your current and new school to ensure you follow the correct process.

If you lose your Form I-20, you should contact your school’s international student office immediately. They can issue you a new Form I-20. It’s very important to keep this document safe, as you’ll need it for various things like reentering the U.S. and proving your student status.

Yes, you can transfer from a U.S. high school to a U.S. college on a student visa. You would need to update your SEVIS record and get a new Form I-20 from your college. Your college’s international student office can assist you with this process.

If you’re a dual citizen, the visa process can depend on your specific circumstances. For example, if you’re a dual citizen of the U.S., you do not need a student visa. If you’re a dual citizen of another country, you would generally apply for a U.S. student visa using the passport of the country that is not the U.S.

Generally, you’re required to be enrolled full-time to maintain your F-1 student status. There may be some exceptions to this rule under certain circumstances, so you should check with your school’s international student office if you’re considering part-time enrollment.

The NLI program is administered by the NCAA, but it’s used by NCAA Division I and II schools, not Division III or NAIA schools.

Student-athletes who are graduating from high school and have been offered an athletic scholarship by a participating college or university can sign a National Letter of Intent. It is important to note that the NLI is only applicable to student-athletes who intend to participate in NCAA Division I or II sports programs. Division III institutions do not use the NLI.

By signing a National Letter of Intent, student-athletes commit to attending the institution for at least one academic year and participating in the sports program. In return, the college or university agrees to provide an athletic scholarship or financial aid package for that period.

Signing a National Letter of Intent is a serious commitment, and it is expected that both the student-athlete and the college or university honor the agreement. However, there are circumstances in which the NLI can be released or modified.

No, signing an NLI is not mandatory. However, it provides security for both the student-athlete and the institution by locking in a commitment from both sides.

No, the NLI is tied to an athletic scholarship offer. If you are not receiving an athletic scholarship, you would not sign an NLI.

If a student-athlete does not fulfill the NLI agreement by attending the institution for at least one academic year, they may be subject to penalties including loss of a year of eligibility and a mandatory residency year at their next institution.

The NLI signing period is the timeframe in which a student-athlete can sign their NLI. There are different signing periods for different sports, typically starting with an early signing period in November and a regular signing period in the spring.

Before signing an NLI, you should consider the academic and athletic fit of the institution, understand the terms of the athletic scholarship, and be ready to make a commitment to attend that school for at least one academic year.

Yes, international student-athletes can sign an NLI. They must meet the same eligibility requirements as domestic student-athletes and comply with immigration regulations.