International Student-Athletes

Daniela Alvarez and Tania Moreno Student-Athletes

The International Student-Athlete (ISA) population is steadily growing, with over 25,000 ISAs currently studying and competing at NCAA member institutions. However, the transition to a new country can be challenging in many ways, creating a strong need for support and guidance. ISAs have unique needs that differ from those of domestic student-athletes, requiring a thoughtful and nuanced approach from those who lead them both on and off the field.

Guiding International Student-Athletes

The NCAA Office of Inclusion is actively collaborating with various national office units, including the Eligibility Center, to ensure that information on becoming an ISA is easily accessible. We also maintain ongoing relationships with current and former ISAs to better understand their experiences, challenges, and needs.

International Student-Athlete Handbook

Whether it's the dress code, expectations in class, using a credit card, or even interpersonal interactions and relationships, living and studying in the U.S. does not come with an instruction manual. Until now.

In this comprehensive handbook, prospective and current ISAs, and their parents, as well as their coaches/administrators, can find an A-to-Z review of all topics that likely work very differently in the U.S. than what is known to ISAs from their native country.

Subjects such as student life, taxes and immigration, cultural adjustments, and career options are only a part of the information included in the handbook, that can help them acclimatize and thrive in their new home away from home.

Download the International Student-Athlete Handbook

To further support ISAs, the NCAA Office of Inclusion provides educational opportunities and resources designed to help coaches, athletics administrators, faculty, and other stakeholders understand how to best support ISAs and foster their sense of belonging. These initiatives include annual sessions and workshops at the Inclusion Forum, occasional webinars, and practical resources like the Fostering International Student-Athlets' Inclusion - Action Steps for Athletic Departments and Fostering International Student-Athletes' Inclusion - Action Steps for Athletics Administrators. These guides include actionable steps for both athletics departments and administrators. Additionally, we maintain ongoing relationships with stakeholders to ensure that NCAA members have opportunities to engage, offer direct feedback, and contribute to future initiatives.