Frequently Asked Questions

College athletics is governed by three main associations: the NCAA, the NAIA, and the NJCAA.

NCAA: Split into Divisions I, II, and III. Division I is the most competitive, home to elite athletes, national TV coverage, and the largest scholarships. Divisions II and III balance sport and academics while still offering high-level facilities and competition. Athletes in all divisions can now benefit from NIL (Name, Image & Likeness) opportunities.
NAIA: Smaller association, similar to NCAA Division II, often a great path for international athletes.
NJCAA: Two-year community colleges; many athletes transfer after developing academically and athletically.

Fall (Sept–Dec): Football, soccer, women’s volleyball, cross country, golf, men’s water polo, field hockey.
Winter (Nov–Mar): Basketball, wrestling, ice hockey, indoor track, swimming, gymnastics, fencing, skiing, bowling.
Spring (Feb–Jun): Baseball, softball, lacrosse, outdoor track, tennis, rowing, men’s volleyball, women’s water polo, golf.

Every day is structured to balance sports and academics. Training starts in the morning, followed by recovery, classes, study blocks, and often an evening workout or team activity. Tutoring support is available, and schedules are designed to ensure academics and athletics don’t clash.

Yes. Student-athletes get class priority and professors are notified of travel schedules. Missed classes or exams are made up with tutoring, adjusted deadlines, or extra academic support.

Scholarships are awarded annually, usually renewed for up to four years. Athletes can renegotiate support as they develop.

Scholarships are protected from injuries, but may be lost due to poor academic performance, misconduct, or breaking university rules. Performance alone rarely causes revocation.

Almost every field of study is available. TASG helps choose universities matching academic and athletic goals.

Generally, yes. Bachelor’s and master’s degrees from accredited U.S. universities are recognized in Europe. Some fields may require extra exams or certifications.

Language skills improve quickly once immersed. Universities assess English level (TOEFL, Duolingo, SAT). Extra tutoring/support is available on campus.

Yes, but credits may not fully transfer. NCAA/NAIA eligibility rules may reduce your available semesters.

Bachelor’s degrees: 8 semesters (vs. 6 in EU). Admission considers grades, essays, extracurriculars. Class sizes are smaller. Majors can be chosen later. Semester breaks include Summer, Thanksgiving, Winter, and Spring Break.

High school diploma, meet NCAA/NAIA academic standards, up to 8 semesters of study, NCAA age limits, and amateur status requirements.

Options: Community College (2-year Associate’s degree) then transfer, or GED test to qualify for U.S. universities.

Standardized test for college admissions. Measures Math and English, scored out of 1600. Combined with GPA, recommendations, and extracurriculars.

Measures reading, listening, speaking, and writing for non-native speakers. Includes video interview and writing sample. Scores 10–160. Alternative to TOEFL.

Most international student-athletes need both SAT and Duolingo (or TOEFL). TASG provides guidance and prep support.

Contact TASG via website or email. Initial consultation assesses goals and potential.

Talented athletes, ages 16–21, mainly from Europe, seeking to combine athletics with U.S. academics.

Evaluation: Assess goals, academics, athletics.
Athlete Profile: Build profile and highlight videos.
Academic Prep: Guide SAT/TOEFL registration, NCAA/NAIA eligibility, document collection.
Coach Outreach: Promote profile to U.S. coaches.
Scholarship Guidance: Evaluate offers, negotiate packages.
Visa & Transition: Assist with F-1 visa and onboarding.

Typically several months depending on readiness, sport calendar, and academics. Starting early is key.

Tuition, room and board, textbooks, some academic fees, meals, and travel related to sport.

Payment via bank transfer (Revolut) or cash. Refunds follow the same method used for payment.

Most live in on-campus dorms with 1–3 roommates and eat in dining halls. Campuses have gyms, clinics, cafés, and shops nearby.

Textbooks, class excursions, personal expenses (~€200/month), flights to/from U.S. Health insurance may be included or separate.

NCAA rules forbid guarantees from companies or agents. Placement depends on performance, eligibility, and university decisions.

Summer: mid-May to mid-August; Winter: mid-Dec to mid-Jan. Total ~4 months at home per year. Visits are also possible anytime.

Universities invest in athlete health with physiotherapists, medical staff, and supplemental insurance covering sports injuries.