How to get US college athletic scholarships for international students?

I'm an international high school junior interested in playing sports at the college level in the US. How does the process work for securing an athletic scholarship as an international student, and what are my chances?

Securing athletic scholarships as an international student involves several steps and might look slightly different than for U.S. students, but the overall goal and structure are similar: college scouts want to see your potential as an athlete and how you could contribute to their team.

Firstly, remember that being an athlete is like having a full-time job, so ensure that you're ready for the commitment, both physically and academically. NCAA (National Collegiate Athletic Association) eligibility includes maintaining a minimum GPA, and this does apply to international students as well.

Secondly, you'll need to prepare documentation showcasing your athletic skills. Recordings of you playing your sport, competing in games, and other appropriate athletic situations are often the best way to observably demonstrate your skills to scouts. Make sure that these are professional quality (clean footage, good angles, clear action). Include a sports resume or profile noting your statistics, notable achievements, and any awards from your high school team or league.

Next, reach out to the athletic departments or coaches of schools you are interested in. You can use the athletic page on the college's website, email, or even social media channels. Be sure to introduce yourself, talk about your interests in the sport and the school, link to your footage, and explain that you're looking for scholarship opportunities.

Standardized tests are a must for international students, as many U.S. colleges require these from all potential students, especially for scholarship consideration. For the 2024-2025 application cycle, Dartmouth College, Harvard University, Purdue University, Brown University, Yale University, The University of Texas at Austin, and California Institute of Technology have returned to requiring all applicants to submit an SAT or ACT score.

Make sure to register with the NCAA (National Collegic Athletic Association) or NAIA (National Association of Intercollegiate Athletics) Eligibility Centers that manage athlete eligibility and recruitment for most colleges in the U.S. Coaches from NCAA schools can't recruit you if you haven't registered with their Eligibility Center. After registering and creating your profile, you’ll have to fill out a detailed questionnaire and provide your prior educational records, and only after that will the NCAA determine your eligibility.

Lastly, be aware that the competition is tough. There are many talented athletes, both domestic and international. To increase your chances of securing a scholarship, make sure to also focus on your academics, maintain your physical fitness, and continuously improve your skills in your sport.

Remember, the process of securing an athletic scholarship can be meticulous and lengthy, often beginning the summer before your senior year. But with early planning and preparation, ongoing communication with college coaches and athletic departments, and dedication to your sport, you can improve your chances of securing an athletic scholarship as an international student.