UNOFFICIAL VISITS

Before you decide which college to attend, it’s helpful to take a look around campus, meet the coaches and players, and get a feel for the school’s environment. The good news is that you don’t need to wait for official recruiting visits by coaches to do so. As a high school athlete, you can take an unofficial visit to any college you choose. Here’s everything you need to know about getting unofficial visits to colleges.

1. What is an unofficial visit and how is it different from an official visit?
An unofficial visit is a trip a student-athlete makes to a college campus at their own expense. It’s a way to show your interest in the school and its athletic program, and to get a sense of the campus culture. You can visit the college’s athletic facilities, meet with coaches, attend practices, and even attend games. However, unlike official visits, coaches cannot pay for any part of the trip, nor can they arrange for lodging or transportation.

2. When should you take an unofficial visit?
Anytime! You can plan an unofficial visit to a college as early as your freshman year of high school. However, it’s important to note that Division I and Division II schools have different rules about when you can make an unofficial visit. In Division I, you won’t be able to do so until the start of your junior year of high school. In Division II, you can visit at any time, but coaches cannot have any recruiting conversations with you until June 15th of your sophomore year.

3. How do you schedule an unofficial visit?
The easiest way to schedule an unofficial visit is to contact the athletic department or specific coaches directly. Coaches are always looking for talented athletes to join their teams, so don’t hesitate to reach out and express your interest in the school. You can also check the college’s website for information on tours, open houses, and unofficial visit policies. If you’re serious about attending a particular college, it’s a good idea to schedule your visit around the time when the sport you want to play is in season, so you can see a game or attend practice.

4. What should you do during your unofficial visit?
The possibilities are endless, but here are some ideas:

- Meet with coaches and players: This is your chance to make a great impression and show them why you’d be a valuable addition to their team. Prepare questions in advance to help you get a better sense of what the school has to offer.

- Tour the campus: Explore the college’s academic facilities, dorms, and dining halls to get a sense of the school’s culture and environment.

- Attend games or practices: You’ll be able to see the team in action and get a sense of the coaching style and team dynamics.

- Visit academic departments: If you have an idea of what you want to study, take some time to visit the department and talk to professors.

It’s always a good idea to bring a notebook and pen to take notes during your visit. You may also want to bring copies of your transcripts, test scores, and a resume highlighting your athletic achievements. Some colleges may ask for this information, so it’s always best to come prepared.

Unofficial visits are a great way for high school athletes to get a sense of what college life is like and to connect with coaches and players. By taking the initiative to schedule your own visit, you’ll demonstrate your passion and dedication to your sport and improve your chances of being recruited. Remember, always be respectful, ask questions, and take notes to make the most of your visit. Good luck!