5 Tips for Prospective NCAA Athletes for College Admission

Applying for college can be a challenge for any student, but prospective student athletes may have even more hoops that they have to jump through. There are a few things that students can do to help simplify the process and to find greater success.

1. Understand the Rules

The NCAA can be very strict about when and where coaches can contact students. In order to remain eligible to play, it is important to know when you are allowed to be in contact with coaching staff. You don't want to let a simple mistake keep you from making the team, so be aware of the different rules and how they apply to you.

2. Make Yourself Known

You can't be recruited if no one knows who you are. If you know that a scout will be at your game, make sure to introduce yourself so he or she can put a face to your name. You may even want to send out some introductory emails to coaches that provides your stats to drum up interest.

3. Maintain Your Grades

The NCAA requires student athletes to maintain a certain GPA, which means that you will be expected to keep up with school as well as sports. It is important to start that practice in high school so that you are prepared for the rigorous work of college.

4. Be Willing to Interact

Your parents are not going to attend college with you, so you need to be able to speak with coaches on your own. It is a good idea to prepare yourself by interacting with other adults in your life.

5. Be Focused

While you may be willing to play for any school, you don't want to send out a mass email to every school in the country. It is better to personalize your communications to show that you are focused on each particular school.

By following these tips, student athletes are more likely to get into their top-choice schools where they can play the sport they love.