NCAA Campus Visits for Canadian Athletes: What You Need to Know

Taking an NCAA campus visit is a major step in your recruitment journey. For Canadian athletes, it can also feel like stepping into a different world.

So how do NCAA campus visits work for Canadians? What should you expect, what are the rules, and how can you leave a strong impression?

This blog has you covered—from the moment you're invited, to stepping onto campus, to what happens afterward.

What Are NCAA Campus Visits?

There are two main types of visits that Canadian athletes need to understand:

Unofficial Visits

• Paid for by the athlete or family

• You can tour the campus, meet coaches, watch games, and explore

• Available at any time (except during NCAA dead periods)

• Unlimited number of visits allowed

  
  

📌 Note: The school cannot pay for anything, including meals or tickets to games.

Official Visits

• Paid for by the NCAA school

• Can include transportation, meals, and lodging for up to 48 hours

• Only allowed after August 1 before your Grade 12 year (based on U.S. Grade 11 timeline)

• Limit of 5 official visits across all Division I schools

✅ Both types matter—but an official visit usually means you’re a serious recruit.

What Canadian Athletes Need to Know

• You’ll need a valid passport and possibly a visitor visa (B2) or ESTA, depending on your citizenship.

• Plan ahead: some NCAA schools are far from major airports and require multiple flights or long drives.

• NCAA schools won’t cover cross-border travel until you’re invited for an official visit.

📌 Tip: If visiting unofficially, align your trip with U.S. tournaments or showcases nearby to make it cost-effective.

What to Expect on Your Visit

• Meeting with the coaching staff

• Tour of athletic and academic facilities

• Sitting in on classes or team meetings

• Chatting with current players

• Attending a game or practice

• Q&A about majors, academic support, and athlete expectations

🎯 Remember: This is your chance to evaluate the school—not just get recruited.

What Coaches Expect from You

You’re being evaluated the whole time. Coaches notice everything.

Show:

• Enthusiasm and respect

• Genuine interest in their program and school

• Strong, thoughtful questions about the team, academics, and culture

• Confidence without arrogance

🧠 Pro Tip: Coaches often ask current players afterward, “Would you want this person as a teammate?”

Smart Questions to Ask on an NCAA Campus Visit

• What does a typical day look like for athletes here?

• How many players in my position are currently on the roster?

• What academic support services are offered?

• How do athletic scholarships work at your school?

• What happens if I get injured?

  
  

Asking smart questions shows maturity—and helps you make the best decision for your future.

A Real Example: From Toronto to an NCAA Visit in New York

Last year, a Canadian soccer player from Toronto received an invite for an unofficial visit to a Division II school in upstate New York.

He and his parents made the five-hour drive, passports ready, and arrived the night before. He had done his homework—literally and figuratively. With a notebook in hand, he had prepared questions about team culture, training schedules, and academic expectations. He also brought along an updated transcript and game footage on a USB key, just in case.

On campus, he met with the coaching staff, toured the athletic facilities, and even sat in on a team film session. After the visit, one of the coaches said, “We can tell who puts in the effort. He didn’t just show up—he showed up prepared.”

Two Days later, he received a formal offer.

FAQs: NCAA Campus Visits for Canadian Athletes

Q1: Can Canadians go on official visits?

Yes, as long as you’re in Grade 11 or older (U.S. equivalent) and the school formally invites you.

Q2: Who pays for travel from Canada?

You pay for unofficial visits. NCAA schools can cover official visit travel—including flights and meals—for up to 48 hours.

Q3: Do I need to bring anything?

Yes. Bring your passport, a notebook, and a copy of your transcript and test scores (if available).

Q4: Can I visit multiple schools on one trip?

Absolutely. Just plan ahead and communicate with all coaches in advance.

Q5: Should parents attend?

Yes—especially for official visits. Coaches want to meet your support system. Just let the athlete take the lead in conversations.

Final Thoughts: Be Prepared, Be Yourself

NCAA campus visits for Canadian athletes are your chance to shine—but also to assess what you truly want in a school.

Be prepared. Be curious. Be yourself. Preparation, professionalism, and personality go a long way—especially coming from across the border.

Download our free NCAA Campus Visit Checklist for Canadian Athletes to prepare for your next visit like a pro.