You’ve set your sights on becoming a student-athlete in the United States—that’s the first piece in the jigsaw! Now comes the critical research phase. While a college visit to the US might not be feasible or required for every international prospect, for those who do have the opportunity, it is one of the most beneficial and clarifying aspect of your research and planning.
This isn't just a sightseeing tour; it's your chance to peer behind the curtain. A physical visit brings your future college experience to life and starts turning that dream into reality. It allows you to assess the campus atmosphere, meet your potential coach face-to-face, and truly visualise yourself thriving both academically and athletically in that specific environment.
Planning Your Perfect Trip
A well-planned trip ensures you maximise every moment and dollar spent.
- Timing is Key: Aim to visit during the academic year when classes are in session and your potential team is actively training or competing. Avoid quiet holiday periods and notify the coach at least 4 weeks in advance of your visit.
- The 'Sweet Spot': Try to visit 3-5 key colleges that are your top contenders. Visiting too many can lead to 'campus fatigue' and make it hard to recall specific details later. Group visits geographically if possible, to save travel time and cost.
- Book Well in Advance: Secure flights, accommodation, and any necessary transport early, especially if your trip coincides with major US sports seasons or high-volume travel times.
- Athlete ID: Once arrangements are finalised, share your NCAA/NAIA athlete ID so the coach can register your visit.
Communication: Set the Stage
Before you book anything, proactive communication with the coaches is essential.
- Initial Contact: Once you have target dates, email the coaches and athletic department staff at your chosen colleges. Be professional, concise, and clearly state your travel dates and purpose.
- Requesting a Meeting: Explicitly request a formal meeting with the head coach and, if possible, staff members from academic support and maybe a current student-athlete from your prospective team.
- Be Flexible: Coaches have demanding schedules. While you need a proper meeting, be armed with some flexibility to fit into the coach's availability.
- Arrival Instructions: Ask 2 days before where to report to on arrival. Make sure you have the coach's WhatsApp number for use during the visit.
What the Visit Should Involve
To get a holistic view of the university, your visit must cover the athletic, academic, and social aspects of college life.
- The Campus Tour: Take the official tour to understand the general campus layout but also walk independently. Note the campus culture, the accessibility of academic buildings, and the general student body vibe. Try and view a freshman's dorm - a current team member may be able to show you round. We recommend you also take in the student cafeteria and other dining options, the bookstore, coffee shops and other leisure facilities.
- Facility Deep Dive: Get a detailed tour of the athletic facilities: the training room, strength and conditioning room, locker room, and fields/courts. Ask yourself: Can I see myself working hard here every day? You can also arrange to meet current student-athletes from the program to get insights on their personal experience, coach relationships and general advice.
- Game/Practice Observation: Whenever possible, arrange to watch the team practice, compete and a game day. This offers an invaluable, unfiltered insight into the coach’s style, the team’s synergy, and the actual competitive level.
- Coach Meetings: Aim to meet with all relevant coaches while you are there - Head Coach, Assistant Coach, Operations Director.
- Local Area: If you have the time, spend a few hours in the nearby town/city to explore the local region and get a feel for the place you could be calling home for the next 4 years.
The Coach Meeting: Your Crucial Conversation
This scheduled time is where you gather the essential evidence for your decision. Prepare thoroughly.
|
Topic |
Key Questions to Ask |
|
Athletics |
What are your specific expectations for a player with my background/skill set? How is the team managed? What’s the team culture like? |
|
Academics |
What resources are available specifically for student-athlete academic success (tutoring, dedicated advising)? |
|
Scholarship |
What is the guaranteed scholarship package you are currently offering? What specific performance benchmarks are tied to scholarship renewal? |
|
Team Life |
What does the typical weekly schedule look like (class, training, travel)? How do current players manage the workload? |
Parental Involvement
Parents, your role during the visit is to be the objective sounding board and evaluate some of the more detailed logistics.
- Let the Student Lead: Ensure your son or daughter drives the conversation, especially with the coach. The staff needs to see they are capable of managing this relationship themselves.
- Focus on Support Systems: You can focus your questions on areas like international student services, health and wellness protocols, campus security, and the overall financial clarity of the scholarship offer.
Next Steps and Follow Up
The value of the visit continues long after you leave the airport.
- Immediate Note-Taking: As soon as you leave campus, jot down your key takeaways. Which college felt right? Note the positives and any areas of concern while the experience is fresh.
- Professional Follow-Up: Within 24 - 48 hours, send a professional thank-you email to the coach and any staff who dedicated significant time to you. Briefly reiterate your strong interest in their programme.
- Comparison and Contrast: Compare your notes across all visited schools. Rank them based on the quality of the coaching relationship, academic program strength, and your personal 'feel' for the campus environment and team culture.
A college visit is a powerful tool. Use it to gather concrete data that moves you closer to making the best decision for your future as a student-athlete.
If you need help with planning your college visit, and communicating with college coaches to discuss college visit opportunities, reach out to your dedicated Talent Manager at FirstPoint USA.
