The paperwork, demystified.
Getting recruited is hard enough without drowning in rules. Here’s the honest checklist of what actually matters — so nothing on the paperwork side trips you up. This is guidance, not legal or immigration advice; always confirm specifics with the governing body or a licensed professional.
Pick the right route
Each U.S. governing body has its own rules. Know which one applies.
- NCAA (D1 / D2). Register with the NCAA Eligibility Center, where academics and amateurism are certified. D1 and D2 have specific core-course and GPA requirements.
- NCAA D3 / NAIA / NJCAA. D3 has no athletic scholarships but strong academics; NAIA and NJCAA (junior college) are flexible, common routes for international athletes.
Academics
Coaches can't recruit you if you're not eligible to enroll.
- Core courses & GPA. Map your school transcript to the required core subjects and keep your grades up from your first year — it counts earlier than families expect.
- Standardized tests. Plan for SAT/ACT where required, and English proficiency (TOEFL/Duolingo) for international students.
- Transcript translation. International transcripts usually need certified translation and a course-by-course evaluation.
Amateurism & NIL
Protect your eligibility before money or contracts enter the picture.
- Keep your amateur status. Prize money, signing with a pro club, or an agent can affect eligibility. Check before you sign anything.
- NIL, carefully. Name-Image-Likeness earning is allowed within rules — but get guidance so a deal doesn't cost you eligibility.
Minors & international athletes
Extra care for under-18 athletes moving across borders.
- FIFA Article 19. International transfers of minors are restricted in soccer. We position around exposure, training, and education — not facilitating transfers.
- Student visa (F-1). Once admitted, the school issues an I-20; you then apply for an F-1 student visa. Timelines vary by country — start early.
- Parental consent. A parent/guardian manages everything for under-18 athletes, including consent and what's shared publicly.
Want a hand with your specific situation?
Our eligibility & paperwork help service walks you through your exact case with a personalized checklist. Message us to get started — we answer in English, Portuguese, or Spanish.
AthleteScout helps with exposure, presentation, and navigating the process. We don’t guarantee eligibility, admission, scholarships, or visa outcomes — those are decided by the governing bodies, schools, and authorities.