College Athlete

How to Get Recruited as a College Athlete in the US

It takes a lot — on the field and off — to play sports at the collegiate level. Here are some tips to help you make the team while still making the grade.

TAKE THE RIGHT CLASSES. Make sure your class schedule fulfills the NCAA’s core course

requirements.

REGISTER WITH THE NCAA. Become NCAA eligible junior year by registering online at the

NCAA Eligibility Center (ncaa.org).

KNOW YOUR TESTS. When registering for the SAT or ACT, use the NCAA Eligibility Center

code of 9999 to ensure all scores are reported directly to the NCAA.

CREATE A RECRUITING VIDEO. Use a videographer who specializes in sports, and make it

short, simple and professional.

DO YOUR RESEARCH. Take a look at the schools you’re interested in and fill out their

student-athlete questionnaire. Talk to current and former players to get some first-hand

information.

MAKE A LIST. Make a list of 10 to 15 colleges, placing each into safety, likely and reach

categories, focusing on athletics and academic programs.

GET ON THEIR RADAR. Introduce yourself to coaches with a short email or letter telling

them why you’re interested in playing for them, and what you can offer as a student-athlete.

VISIT CAMPUS. Take a tour of prospective campuses, meeting with admission staff,

current students and coaches if possible.

GO TO CAMP. Attend a sports camp or recruiting day. They’re great chances to get better

and get noticed.

CHOOSE YOUR TEAM. Pick the school that gives you the best