Campus Visit Guidelines
Before Visit
1. Do Your Research
Learn about the school’s academic programs, campus size, location, and culture
Understand the athletic program’s level, roster size, and recent performance
Review the coaching staff and read recent news about the team
2. Prepare Questions to Ask
Academics: What majors are offered? What support is available for athletes?
Athletics: What’s the team culture like? What’s the coach’s philosophy? Out of Season expectation(s). Strength & Conditioning schedule? Study Hall Schedule? Style of Play?
Daily Life: What's a typical day like for a student-athlete on the team?
Scholarships: What kind of financial aid or athletic scholarships are available?
3. Pack Appropriately
Dress presentably (athletic-casual or business-casual depending on the event)
Bring a notebook, a copy of your resume, transcripts (if requested), and any materials the coach might want
Wear comfortable shoes for walking tours
Avoid cell phone use during visit with coaching staff
4. Confirm Logistics
Know your schedule: who you’ll meet, where to go, and what time things start (show up 5 minutes early)
Confirm with the coach or admissions if meals, accommodations, or travel is provided (for official visits)
Inform your current coach or school counselor if you’ll miss class
During Visit
1. Be Professional & Personable
Introduce yourself with confidence and show respect to coaches, players, and staff
Alway shake hands and make eye contact
Be attentive and engaged — this is your chance to evaluate and be evaluated
2. Observe Everything
Pay attention to how players interact with each other and the coaches
Look at facilities: locker rooms, training rooms, academic support centers, dormitories
Attend classes or stay overnight (if offered) to get the full experience
3. Ask Questions & Take Notes
Don’t be afraid to ask about scholarships, playing time, redshirting, and expectations
Write down your impressions — what you liked, didn’t like, or want to learn more about
4. Be Honest
If you're not feeling a good fit, it's okay — that’s part of the process
Be respectful, but transparent about your interests and timeline
Never burn bridges, you never know where a coach might end up or who they know
After Visit
1. Reflect and Review
Revisit your notes and compare the visit to your priorities (academics, athletics, campus feel, geographical location, etc.)
Talk it over with family or mentors — was it a good fit? List pro’s and con’s
2. Send Thank You Notes
Email or text a thank-you message to the coach, admissions staff, player host and anyone else who helped
Reiterate your interest (or respectfully update your status if you’re no longer considering the school)
3. Update Your Recruiting Tracker
Add notes, impressions, and next steps (e.g., follow-up call, sending film, next visit)
Keep it organized so you can compare schools clearly
