For international athletes, exposure and adaptation are the biggest challenges. Prep schools place players directly inside the U.S. recruiting network where college coaches actively scout, while helping them adjust academically, athletically, and culturally. They provide a proven bridge to college sports, delivering the structure, coaching, and competition needed to succeed.

A post-grad (PG) year is a nine-month academic and athletic program taken after high school graduation and before college. It allows athletes to develop physically, academically, and emotionally, gain another recruiting season, and improve scholarship opportunities, all without using a year of NCAA eligibility. It’s ideal for players who need more exposure, to mature emotionally or physically, or to raise their academic profile before college.

A prep-school or post-grad year does not use NCAA eligibility, unlike a JUCO. Prep schools also offer higher-level academics, stronger structure, and better living environments. JUCOs are often regional and are a better fit for those who need help raising their academics or don’t have the financial means for a prep school.

Tuition ranges from $38,000 to $87,000 USD per year, depending on school and program. Many offer need-based or merit aid. We can’t guarantee aid in any way, however our team can help families navigate this process to find realistic options. Factors such as academic strength, athletic level, family income, and geographic diversity can all affect scholarship potential.

Ideally 6 to 12 months before enrollment. Starting early lets schools review transcripts, film, and aid applications in time for their admissions deadlines. Many prep schools offer rolling admissions, but early preparation opens more opportunities and financial aid availability.

Academics matter. Prep schools expect effort in the classroom just as much as on the court. Strong grades and test scores expand college options and increase aid eligibility. Most schools require recent transcripts and may recommend the TOEFL or Duolingo for non-native English speakers. There are also prep schools that can assist those who need to improve their academic record.  

Yes. The prep school that a player will eventually commit to will issue a Form I-20 which is needed to receive an F-1 visa.  Each school has an international office that will help you through this entire process.

We work with athletes who are driven, coachable, and ready to grow on and off the court. If a player is unwilling to train hard, embrace academics, or follow honest feedback, this path may not be right for them. Our goal is fit, not just placement, so we only take on families we can truly help.

We’re not agents. We’re advisors and advocates. PREP Athletics focuses solely on prep school placement, not AAU teams or college representation. We use our network of trusted coaches to create direct introductions, saving families time and avoiding the “pay-to-promise” recruiting industry trap.

It’s never too late to find a fit. Prep schools often have openings throughout the year and post-grad options for recent graduates. We specialize in helping families identify the best available programs based on current timing and readiness.

If you can, definitely. Seeing campus life helps ensure fit. But for many families overseas, a virtual visit and online research are sufficient. Most schools offer video tours and digital materials, and we’ll guide you to the most reliable resources for each option.

Expect structure, intensity, and growth. Players attend classes daily, train under college-caliber coaches, and compete in high-level leagues. They gain independence, maturity, and college-ready habits — the qualities that help them stand out to college coaches.

Everything begins with our Free Assessment. You’ll complete a short form so we can evaluate your athletic level, academic record, and financial range, then receive personalized recommendations for next steps.