When it comes to the college recruiting journey, visits to campuses can be both exciting and overwhelming. Whether it’s your first time stepping foot on a college campus or your fifth, it’s important to know the difference between an official visit and an unofficial visit—and how to make the most of both.
What’s the Difference?
Official Visit:
An official visit is when a college pays for you (and sometimes your family) to visit campus. This includes transportation, meals, lodging, and sometimes even tickets to a home game. You are able to take an unlimited amount of official visits, but you are limited to one official visit per institution while enrolled in high school to Division I, II, and III schools.The dates below highlight when you are able to begin taking visits after sophomore year:
- Division I: August 1st
- Softball: September 1st
- Basketball: January 1st
- Division II: June 15th
- Division III: January 1st
Unofficial Visit:
An unofficial visit is when you cover the costs. You can take as many as you want, and they’re a great way to explore campuses at your own pace. While coaches can’t cover your expenses, they can still meet with you (Depending on the NCAA recruiting calendar for your sport)], provide a campus tour, and Sometimes provide tickets to attend a home game. Unofficial visits at Division II and III schools can occur at any time, but are only allowed for Division I schools by the below dates after sophomore year:
- Division I: August 1st
- Softball: September 1st
- Basketball: Unrestricted
Preparing for a Visit (Official or Unofficial)
Whether it’s official or unofficial, here are a few ways to get ready and make the visit count:
1. Do Your Homework
Before you even step on campus, research the school. Know the team’s current roster, recent records, coaching staff, and even academic programs. Show the coaches you’re genuinely interested—not just there for the free game tickets and meals.
2. Dress the Part
No need to dress too formal, but aim for clean, casual, and confident. You’re making a first impression—not just on coaches, but teammates, athletic staff, and sometimes even admissions staff.
3. Prepare the Right Questions
This is your future. Reflect on what is important to you and come prepared with questions for the coach, current athletes, non-athletic students, financial aid officers, athletic department staff, and professors. A few questions to consider include:
- What’s a typical day like for a student-athlete?
- What career resources are available to student-athletes?
- What kind of academic support is available?
- What’s the team culture like?
- How does playing time get decided?
4. Get to Know the Team
Coaches are important, but talking to AND observing current players gives you the real scoop. Don’t be afraid to ask about team dynamics, travel schedules, and how they balance academics and athletics. Remember– these women may be your future teammates and it’s important to assess whether you can see yourself fitting in with the current team culture.
5. Remember Your Manners
Leave a positive impression by remembering to say thank you, look people in the eye, and follow up with a thank-you note or email. Respect goes a long way especially when there is limited time for people to interact with you.
6. Take Notes
You might be visiting multiple schools, so jot down quick notes after each visit—what you liked, what felt off, and how you connected with the team and campus. You can also make note of any follow up questions you may have for the coach or other university staff you engaged with.
