The U.S. Student-Athlete Pathway — An Overview for International Students: The U.S. College Sports Landscape
Joseph Lennarz • November 6, 2025
Introduction
For many talented athletes around the world, U.S. college athletics represent a remarkable opportunity to combine elite athletic competition with higher education. In sports such as basketball, soccer, track and field, and tennis, among others, hundreds of colleges and universities across the United States offer structured programs that allow student-athletes to train at a high level while pursuing a fully accredited degree. This dual pathway is especially appealing to athletes who are not only gifted in their sport but also strong students with a passion for learning.
The collegiate athletics system provides access to world-class coaching, athletic facilities, support structure, and exposure to professional scouts, all within a framework that emphasizes academic achievement and personal development. Additionally, many of these colleges are able to offer some level of scholarship (meaning financial assistance) to their student-athletes based on athletic talent, academic merit, financial need, or some combination of those factors. This allows student-athletes, even from lower-resourced backgrounds, to be able to participate and thrive in collegiate athletics. College athletics are thus a great option to serve as both a launching pad to professional careers and a foundation for lifelong success beyond an athlete’s playing days.
The U.S. College Sports Landscape
College athletics in the United States are organized primarily under three governing bodies:
- NCAA (National Collegiate Athletic Association): The largest organization, divided into Divisions I, II, and III, each with its own academic and athletic eligibility standards.
- NAIA (National Association of Intercollegiate Athletics): Smaller, often offering greater scholarship flexibility and a more personal recruitment process.
- NJCAA (National Junior College Athletic Association): Oversees two-year colleges, frequently serving as a stepping stone to four-year programs.
Understanding these associations helps international athletes align their academic goals, athletic level, and immigration planning from the outset. In order to compete for a given college or university, you must be granted admission to the school as a student, be deemed eligible to participate with their athletic team in your sport, and have costs of attendance covered through your own resources, a scholarship, or a combination of both (which we will discuss more later in this series).
Each of these organizations has different standards for admission and student-athlete eligibility, and each offers a different type of athletic environment. For example, NCAA Division 1 programs offer the most competitive athletic environment, with the largest program budgets and highest number of graduates going on to careers as professional athletes in their respective sports, but they also have the strictest standards for admission and eligibility to compete as a student athlete. NAIA programs range in competitiveness, but generally have more relaxed admission standards and eligibility requirements than NCAA programs. NJCAA programs have a lower competition standard as well as more relaxed admission and eligibility standards; however, they are structured in a way that allows students who are initially ineligible for NCAA to become eligible and progress to that level after two years.
The best way to determine which level(s) you are eligible for, is to get in touch with some programs and discuss these requirements with them. It is common for college coaches to recruit student athletes from all over the world, so don’t hesitate to reach out to programs that you think might be a fit for you, even if they don’t already have athletes from your country on their roster. Many coaches have their email addresses listed on their school’s website, and will evaluate candidates who contact them directly. Make sure to include as much information about your academic background and playing career as possible, including highlights or match film and statistical data whenever possible. Keep in mind that a coach will likely be very busy during their sport’s designated competition season. Most college sports will compete during an autumn, winter, or spring season, so if possible, conduct your outreach when the season has ended and coaches have the time to start evaluating potential new recruits for next year.
Academic admission and athletic eligibility requirements can include various factors such as the following: overall grade averages and test scores, requirements for a student to have taken certain courses in their previous academic program(s), proof of English proficiency or certain score benchmarks in English proficiency tests such as TOEFL or Duolingo if English is not your native language, a maximum number of years since graduating from secondary school, or lack of experience at a professional level in the sport you will be competing in.
Tips on this part of your student-athlete journey:
- Focus on programs that fit your profile ->
understand what the requirements are for each level, and focus your search on programs within a league or division level that suit your background and your goals. If you are a strong student but less decorated athlete, consider an NCAA Division 2 or 3 program that might have great academic standards but a lesser standard to contribute in your sport. If you are an elite professional prospect in your sport, make sure the schools you focus on have a track record of producing professional players, and the standard is high enough to platform you for that level.
- Don’t be afraid to ask! -> If you are speaking to a coach about potentially coming to their program, ask them for clear and specific guidelines on what the requirements are for admission to their school and for eligibility to play for their program. They don’t want to waste their time on a recruit who won’t be able to play for them, any more than you want to waste your time on a program that won’t end up being a fit. Making sure that you check all the boxes from the beginning will help to cut down on chasing the wrong programs.
The one requirement that all American college athletic programs have in common, is that an international student athlete will require a valid F1 student visa in order to attend and compete.
If you are a talented non-American athlete who is interested in pursuing a college degree in the United States while also competing in your chosen sport, or even a current student athlete or college coach with questions relating to F1 student visas, you should consult with an immigration attorney to ensure that you are up to date on current rules and regulations.
This blog is not intended to be legal advice and nothing here should be construed as establishing an attorney client relationship. Please schedule a consultation with an immigration attorney before acting on any information read here.
Joseph Lennarz
This Facebook widget is no longer supported.
Similar Posts
Once you have connected with a college program, have been admitted to the school, and deemed eligible to compete athletically, you will need to secure an F-1 student visa in order to actually attend your new college and begin your time as a student athlete. The first step in the visa process is to receive your Form I-2
The United States has long been a destination for the world’s most talented athletes—not only to compete at the highest level, but to access world-class training, coaching opportunities, and long-term career prospects. Whether on the field, in the ring, or across the chessboard, athletes from across the globe are finding immigration pathways that allow them to pursue their athletic and professional goals in the U.S. U.S. immigration law offers several visa and green card options designed specifically for individuals with extraordinary athletic talent. These include the P-1A visa for internationally recognized athletes, the O-1A visa for individuals of extraordinary ability, and the EB-1A immigrant petition, which can lead to permanent residency and ultimately, U.S. citizenship. The P-1A visa is commonly used by professional athletes coming to the U.S. to compete in a specific event or season. This applies not only to individual athletes but also to members of teams or clubs recognized internationally. It is widely used by soccer players, basketball players, MMA fighters, Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu competitors, and even elite chess players. Athletes must demonstrate a high level of international recognition and a record of performance in their sport. The O-1A visa is a strong option for coaches who demonstrate extraordinary ability, typically evidenced by championship titles, sustained winning records, or recognition as integral to their team’s success. To qualify, a coach must establish that their expertise places them among the small percentage of top professionals in their field. For athletes seeking permanent status in the U.S., the EB-1A immigrant petition —often referred to as the “extraordinary ability green card”—provides a direct path to lawful permanent residency. It requires clear documentation that the individual is among the very best in their sport and has achieved sustained national or international success. Unlike other green card categories, the EB-1A does not require employer sponsorship and can be self-petitioned. This has become a common path for MMA world champions, BJJ black belt medalists, Olympic athletes, and chess grandmasters—many of whom now represent the U.S. at the highest levels of international competition. It’s important to note that U.S. immigration law defines “athlete” broadly. Whether you are a professional football player in Europe, a sprinter from the Caribbean, a judoka, a gymnast, or a grandmaster in chess, your achievements may qualify under these categories if they are properly documented and presented. The key is a consistent record of excellence and recognition in your sport on a national or international scale. Our office specializes in these types of immigration matters. Whether you are an individual athlete looking to relocate or an organization seeking to bring international talent to your roster, we offer tailored legal strategies to support your goals. If you are exploring options to compete, train, or build your future in the U.S., we’re here to help you take the next step.
In a renewed wave of enforcement, U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) has started sending formal alerts to certain F-1 students participating in Optional Practical Training (OPT), flagging that their records reflect over 90 days without any reported employment. These students have been advised to update their employment status in the Student and Exchange Visitor Information System (SEVIS) within 15 days. Failure to take timely corrective action may lead to the termination of the student's SEVIS record, effectively marking them as out of status, and may ultimately trigger removal proceedings. The notices are intended as a warning that students who do not comply with OPT reporting obligations are at risk of serious immigration consequences. Understanding OPT and Its Unemployment Limits Optional Practical Training (commonly referred to as “OPT”) is a work authorization benefit that allows eligible F-1 international students to gain hands-on experience in their field of study. Students may apply for pre-completion OPT (while still in school) or post-completion OPT (after graduation), typically for up to 12 months. Those with degrees in qualifying STEM fields may apply for an additional 24-month STEM OPT extension, giving them a total of 36 months of work authorization in the U.S. To maintain valid F-1 status while on OPT, students must remain actively employed in a position related to their field of study. The amount of time a student may remain in the United States while on OPT without being properly employed is capped at: 90 days during the standard 12-month post-completion OPT, and 150 days for those on the STEM OPT extension, which includes any days of unemployment accrued during the initial OPT period. These unemployment limits are cumulative and enforced strictly through SEVIS monitoring. What Should F-1 Students Do? If you are an F-1 student on OPT or STEM OPT and receive a warning or are unsure about your compliance status, act quickly: Contact your Designated School Official (DSO) immediately to review and, if necessary, update your SEVIS record. Ensure all employment is properly documented and reported through your school’s international office. Do not ignore warning notices, as failure to respond may lead to SEVIS termination and potentially the initiation of removal proceedings. It is also advisable to consult with a qualified immigration attorney to explore available options and understand how enforcement actions may affect your status or future immigration plans. If you received a notice or have questions about your F-1 status, our attorneys are here to help you take the right steps to protect your future in the United States. Contact us today to schedule a consultation.
According to the U.S. State Department, there has been a steady increase of F-1 visas issued for foreign students within the past year. In Fiscal Year 2022, 411,000 F-1 visas were issued, rising from the 358,000 F-1 visas issued in the 2021 Fiscal Year. These numbers have shown that F-1 student visas have recovered to pre-pandemic numbers. In 2020, only 111,000 F-1 student visas were issued due to pandemic uncertainty, border restrictions, embassy closures, and other barriers for students to study in the United States. The government expects these numbers to continue to rise even with rising rejection rates of F-1 applicants. In 2022, the U.S. State Department rejected 35% of all F-1 applicants in 2022, an increase from previous years. In addition, in May 2023, U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement terminated COVID-era guidance allowing F and M students to utilize more online classes toward a full course of study. The increasing F-1 student visas are a good sign for American employers because these individuals seek to study in the United States due to American excellence in wages, opportunity, diversity, and the encouragement of highly skilled workers. By assimilating in the United States through their education, they will be prepared to contribute to the United States workforce. For those who are interested in applying for the F-1 student visa, please contact our office for consultation and further information.
The federal government entered a partial shutdown on January 31, 2026, after Congress failed to pass a final funding package. While this follows the record-breaking 43-day shutdown from last fall, this disruption is expected to be brief, with a House vote anticipated for the first week of February. However, as of February 2, several key departments are operating under shutdown contingencies. If you are an employer or a foreign national, here is what you need to know about how this affects your immigration matters: Impacts for Employers Certified LCAs: The Department of Labor (DOL) has suspended the processing of Labor Condition Applications. This means employers cannot currently obtain the certifications required to file new H-1B, H-1B1, or E-3 petitions. PERM and Prevailing Wages: Processing for PERM labor certifications and prevailing wage determinations has halted. This will likely cause a backlog once the government reopens. E-Verify: The E-Verify system is typically taken offline during a shutdown. Employers should continue to follow I-9 requirements but may be unable to resolve Tentative Nonconfirmations (TNCs) until the system is restored. Impacts for Employees and Families Consular Services: While U.S. embassies and consulates are fee-funded, their operations may be reduced. If you have an upcoming visa interview, check the specific consulate's website for status updates, as delays are possible. USCIS Operations: Because USCIS is primarily funded by application fees, it remains open. You should still attend scheduled interviews and biometrics appointments unless notified otherwise. CBP and Travel: U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP) functions are essential. Ports of entry remain open, though you may experience longer waiting times due to staffing adjustments. At Santos Lloyd, we are closely monitoring the situation as it unfolds. Whether you are an employer seeking guidance on how this shutdown impacts your hiring plans or an employee with general questions regarding if or how you may be affected, please reach out to our office. We remain dedicated to providing the updates and professional assistance necessary to help you navigate these disruptions.
U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) has announced a major change to the H-1B cap selection process. Under a final rule issued on December 29, 2025, USCIS will replace the long-standing random H-1B lottery with a wage-weighted selection system that favors higher-paid and more complex positions. The rule is scheduled to take effect on February 27, 2026 , just ahead of the fiscal year 2027 H-1B cap registration season, unless delayed by legal challenges. If implemented, USCIS is expected to release additional guidance explaining how employers must submit registrations under the revised process. This change marks one of the most significant reforms to the H-1B program in recent years. Up until 2025, all registrations were treated equally once the annual cap was reached. Under the new system, selection odds will be tied to wage levels based on the U.S. Department of Labor’s Occupational Employment and Wage Statistics data. All H-1B registrations will still be placed into a single selection pool, but registrations tied to higher wage levels will receive multiple entries into that pool, increasing their likelihood of selection. Lower wage levels will receive fewer entries, making selection less likely but not impossible. H-1B wage levels are not determined solely by salary. Each wage level reflects the complexity of the job, the level of responsibility involved, and the education and experience required . Entry-level positions involving routine duties and close supervision are generally classified at the lowest wage level, while positions requiring independent judgment, advanced skills, and significant responsibility fall into higher wage levels. The highest wage level is reserved for roles that involve expert knowledge, strategic decision-making, and substantial leadership or technical authority. USCIS is expected to closely scrutinize selected petitions to ensure that the wage level claimed during registration is supported by the job duties and salary offered in the petition. Any discrepancies between the registration and the petition may result in requests for evidence, denials, or enforcement action. With the elimination of the purely random lottery, employers should begin preparing early by carefully evaluating job descriptions, wage levels, and overall H-1B strategy. Accurate classification and thoughtful planning will be essential under this new wage-based selection system. If you are an employer considering H-1B sponsorship, or a foreign professional wondering whether your position may qualify under the new wage-based system, consulting with experienced immigration counsel is more important than ever. Santos Lloyd Law is actively advising clients on H-1B cap registrations and strategy under the new rules. To discuss your options or determine whether you may qualify, contact our office to schedule a consultation.
During the recent administration there has been an increase in issuance of Requests for Evidence for EB-1A petitions for those of Extraordinary Ability. A Request for Evidence is a request that is made by USCIS that should explain how the evidence is deficient in proving the criteria argued and what additional evidence needs to be provided by the applicant to meet the criteria. EB-1A petitions are already normally subject to higher scrutiny because their approval is the first step needed to apply for Lawful Permanent Residence or a green card. USCIS normally requires not just evidence but that the evidence be provided with context and information to show why it matters in a particular field. For example, if you were providing evidence of your membership in an organization that requires outstanding achievements of its members, just providing evidence of the membership is not enough. You must explain what that membership is and provide background information on the organization granting the membership. You also need to provide evidence on the criteria that is used to select the members, information on those who select the members to show that they are recognized experts, other documentation such as articles about the membership organization to show its importance, and any other relevant evidence and background information to show that the criteria is met. A request for evidence being issued prior to the current administration was not uncommon, but in the current climate it is more surprising to not receive a request for evidence for this type of case. It is important to remember that a request for evidence is not a denial. Depending on the validity of the information in the request and the substance some Requests for Evidence can be overcome, and the case be approved. It is important to carefully review the request and note if there are any errors in the content and application of the regulations by USCIS. If you have an attorney, you should work with them and make sure that you provide any evidence you think may be helpful. Although there is a deadline by which a response must be submitted, attention to detail and patience will go a long way when dealing with having to respond to a request for evidence. If you believe you may qualify for this type of visa, please feel free to contact our office.
