Education and training

Understand the 4 stages of College: Freshman, Sophomore, Junior and Senior

Starting a university education as a Student Athlete is an exciting and challenging journey. Not only do you have the opportunity to pursue higher education, but you also have the privilege of participating in college sports. However, navigating the college experience can be overwhelming, especially when it comes to understanding the different terms associated with each year. In this article, we go through the different stages of a university education for student athletes, from first to final year, so you can understand what each year entails and how it affects your academic and sporting activities.

Freshman Year: A new beginning

Year 1

As a freshman, you enter campus with a sense of anticipation and enthusiasm. It is a time of adjustment, both academically and athletically. You will attend introductory courses, build up a routine and get to know your teammates and coaches. The first year of college lays the foundation for your college career, as you adapt to the demands of balancing sport and study.

When you arrive in the US as a student athlete, you are not far from the traditional media day where the first pictures of you in your new gear are taken.

Sophomore Year: Building Momentum

Year 2

By the time you are in your second year, you are more familiar with college life and have found a rhythm. You continue to take majors while delving deeper into your field of study. On the sporting front, you have gained experience and may even contribute greatly to your team. The second year is a crucial time for growth and development, both academically and athletically.

Junior Year: Digging deeper

Year 3

The junior year is often considered to be the most challenging and crucial year academically. You will delve deeper into your field of study, explore specialized subjects and maybe even do some research. As a student athlete, you are in full swing with your sport and have built up momentum. You take on leadership roles and have a big impact on your team. The junior year is a time of increased responsibility and preparation for what lies ahead.

During your time as a student athlete, you might even be lucky enough to win an individual award, academic recognition or even a championship!

Senior Year: the culmination

Year 4

Your senior year is the culmination of your college journey. You will complete your major, perhaps participate in internships or research projects, and prepare for your postgraduate plans. As a senior athlete, it’s your last year of college sports. You will cherish your last moments on the pitch and hopefully leave a lasting impression on your team. It is a time for reflection, celebration and preparation to move on to the next phase of your life.

Embrace the whole journey!

While the terms freshman, sophomore, junior and senior describe the individual stages, it is important to recognize that college education for student athletes is about more than just years. It is a holistic experience that encompasses personal growth, character development and lifelong connections. Embrace the entire journey, believing that each stage contributes to your overall development as a student athlete and prepares you for success after college.

As a student athlete, it is important to understand the different phases of a university education in order to effectively navigate your academic and athletic endeavors. From the exciting first year as a freshman to the culmination of senior year, each phase offers unique opportunities and challenges. By taking the whole journey with you, you will make the most of your college experience and forge a path to academic excellence and sporting achievement. We are here to support you every step of the way and ensure that you thrive throughout your life as a student athlete.

Remember that your college education is not only defined by these terms. It is a transformative experience that includes personal development, close friendships and valuable life lessons. Embrace the journey, seize every opportunity and make your mark on the experience.

High School in the US: The alternative to a sports boarding school

If you want to combine your passion for sport with an international education, high school in the US can be the perfect alternative to a traditional sports high school. We are seeing increasing interest from young athletes and their parents who are looking for the opportunity to spend a year at a high school after primary or middle school.

In this short article, we’ll write about what high school is, why it can be a rewarding experience, and we’ll present five key reasons to choose high school in the US. In addition, we’ll also dive into how to live in high school and find the ideal home away from home. Read on to discover the opportunities for sporting and academic development at high school in the US.

What is High School in the US?

High school in the US is the American education system’s equivalent of upper secondary school in Denmark, but there are some key differences.
First, high school in the US typically lasts four years, while in Denmark, upper secondary school lasts three years. In addition, high school is more focused on developing students’ personal and social skills through various clubs and sports activities, which are an important part of American culture and the school year itself.
In addition, high school students can choose specific subjects from a wide range of options and in many ways design their own timetable. In Denmark, this is more at line level, where you choose a general direction such as biology or mathematics.

Why go to High School in the US?

There are many different reasons why High School in the US might be a good idea for you.
Whether it’s sporting dreams, academic ambitions or the desire for a different experience after school, a stay at the American version of a high school may give you what you need.

The opportunity to practice sport at a high level

For young people who are passionate about sport, high school in the US can be an exciting option. In the US, sport is a big part of school culture and many high schools have strong athletics programs where talented athletes can develop their skills and compete at a high level.
American high schools offer a high level of training and competition in sports such as basketball, soccer, swimming, athletics, tennis, golf, volleyball and many more.

Basketball

Golf

Tennis

Swimming

Volleyball

Soccer

A different culture

High school can also be a great opportunity to experience a new culture and learn about a different way of living and thinking. The United States is a large and diverse country with many different regions and communities, and a high school experience can be an eye-opener for young people looking to broaden their horizons.

An everyday life reminiscent of an after-school stay

One of the reasons to go to High School in the US is the unique everyday life, similar to a boarding school experience. Students live on campus with other students and have plenty of opportunities to participate in clubs and sports activities that are an integral part of the school year. In addition, many high schools also offer a wide range of subjects and courses that allow students to explore their interests and learn more about their future career options. It is a great opportunity for students who want an education that also focuses on personal and social development, while giving them the chance to get to know a new culture and meet new people.

Improve your language skills

High school in the US can also be a good opportunity to improve your language skills. Many high schools offer language courses, but simply living “in another language” is enough to quickly learn to speak English in a more natural and fluent way.

A stepping stone to sporting and academic opportunities

Finally, a high school in the US can also be a good preparation for the future. American high schools typically offer a wide range of subjects and activities to help young people identify their interests and strengths and take the first steps towards their career or educational goals.

In addition, playing sports in high school can be a stepping stone to further career opportunities. Many US schools have close links with colleges and universities, which can open doors for scholarships and sports scholarships in the US. This gives young people a unique chance to pursue their sporting dreams and access higher education at the same time.

A collection of images from Ole Jessen’s year in the US at Putnam Science Academy, an American high school.

How do you live in High School in the US?

When attending high school in the US, there are typically two main options for accommodation: living on campus with other students or living with a host family.

Living on campus (boarding school style)

Living on campus can be an exciting opportunity to experience life at an American school up close. Many high schools have dormitories or dormitories where students can live with other students of the same age group and from different parts of the country or even the world. This can give students the opportunity to get to know other cultures and build friendships with students from elsewhere in the US or abroad.

On campus, students typically live close to their classmates and can easily participate in school and extracurricular activities as they are often within walking distance. Schools usually also provide meals in dining rooms or canteens so that students don’t have to worry about cooking for themselves.

Stay with a host family

Another option is to stay with a host family. This can give students the opportunity to experience the daily life and culture of an American family first-hand. Host families can also help students adapt to life in the US and improve their language skills. Many students choose to stay with a host family if their high school does not have dormitories or if they want a more homely atmosphere.

Whether you choose to live on campus or with a host family, it is important to carefully examine the different options and find the best solution for your individual needs and wishes.

A year in High School in the US

As a high school student athlete in the US, your daily life is filled with both academic challenges and sporting achievements. To help you get a better understanding of what to expect, we have put together an annual wheel showing what you can expect during the school year. The wheel is divided into four seasons – autumn, winter, spring and summer – and gives you an idea of what to expect and what to focus on.

Marts - JuniVarighed

Forårsæsonen

Når forårssæsonen begynder, bringer det spændende udfordringer både på og uden for banen. Du vil fortsætte med dine sportslige aktiviteter og deltage i forårskampe og konkurrencer. Denne sæson kan være fyldt med højdepunkter og muligheder for at vise dine færdigheder og styrke dit hold. Samtidig vil du fortsætte dine akademiske studier og forberede dig på afsluttende eksamener og projekter. Det er vigtigt at holde fokus og prioritere både din sport og dit studie for at opnå succes i begge områder.

Juni - AugustVarighed

Sommerferie

Sommerferien markerer en velfortjent pause og en tid til at hvile, genoplade og forberede dig på det kommende år. Det kan være en god mulighed for at deltage i sommertræningslejre eller deltage i faglige udviklingsprogrammer for at forbedre dine færdigheder og lære nye teknikker. Det er også en tid til at reflektere over dine præstationer i det forløbne år og sætte mål for det kommende skoleår. Selvom sommerferien er en tid til afslapning, er det også en mulighed for at fortsætte med personlig træning og forbedre dit fysiske og mentale velbefindende.

December - MartsVarighed

Vintersæsonen

Når vintersæsonen nærmer sig, skifter fokus til vintersportsgrene og fortsættelsen af dine akademiske studier. Du vil tilbringe tid med dit vinterhold, træne og forberede dig til kampe og turneringer. Det kan være en intens periode med regelmæssige træningspas og kampe, der kræver både fysisk og mental udholdenhed. Samtidig vil du fortsætte med dine akademiske forpligtelser og engagere dig i dine faglige studier. Det er vigtigt at være organiseret og disciplineret for at balancere både sportslige og akademiske krav i denne sæson.

August - NovemberVarighed

Efterårsæsonen

Når efterårssæsonen starter, byder high school på en spændende begyndelse på både akademisk og sportslig front. Du vil blive introduceret til dine nye kurser og møde dine lærere og klassekammerater. Samtidig starter træningen til efterårsportsgrene, hvor du vil tilbringe tid med dit hold og trænere for at forbedre dine færdigheder og forberede dig på konkurrencer. I denne sæson vil du opleve adrenalinet ved at deltage i efterårskampe og konkurrencer, hvor du får mulighed for at vise dine evner og repræsentere skolen. Det kan være en udfordring at finde den rette balance mellem dine akademiske forpligtelser og din sportslige satsning, men det er en vigtig del af din udvikling som Student Athlete.

If you would like to explore the possibility of attending High School, or know someone who has, you can sign up and read more right here.Then we will have a dialog about the possibilities in the US, either by phone or at our office in Copenhagen.

College and High School Age in the US: An Overview

For those unfamiliar with the US education system, understanding the age requirements for high school and college in the US can be a little confusing.
The American education system is slightly different from that in Scandinavia.
Below we provide a brief overview of how age is related to high school and college in the United States.

High School

High school is an educational institution for students aged 14-18 years. Students are divided into four different classes, from freshman to senior. The typical age of a high school student depends on the student’s birthday and class. Here is an overview of the typical ages for each class:

Class	English designation	Age
Freshman	1st grade	14-15
Sophomore	2nd grade	15-16
Junior	3rd grade	16-17
Senior	4th grade	17-18

College

Are college and university the same in the US?

In the United States, the words ‘college’ and ‘university’ are often used interchangeably and in many cases the two terms are synonymous. But there are some nuances between them, which may vary from institution to institution. Generally speaking, ‘college’ often refers to a smaller institution offering undergraduate degrees, while ‘university’ is usually larger and offers undergraduate, master’s and doctoral degrees. However, some institutions also use “college” as part of their name, even if they are universities. Therefore, it can sometimes be confusing to distinguish between the two concepts in the US context.

College is an educational institution for students after high school. The typical age of a college student varies depending on circumstances. Here is an overview of the typical ages of students at different levels:

Education and training	age
Associate’s Degree (Junior College) (2 years)	18-20
Bachelor’s Degree (4 years)	18-22
Master’s Degree (2 years)	22-24
Ph.D. (doctoral degree)	27-33

Age For Student Athletes

If you are interested in playing sports in high school or college in the US, age may play a different role. To participate in high school or college sports, you must meet specific age requirements.

In high school, age requirements are usually quite flexible, as students are still under 18 years old. However, if you want to take part in sports at high school, you usually need to be between 14-19 years old.

The rules regarding Being able to play sport in college depends mainly on when you graduated from high school or equivalent – rather than your age. We elaborate on this in an article on sporting eligibility.
The typical age of a college athlete is between 18-23 years.

The 5 major differences between high school and college in the US

The transition from high school to college is a big change for any young person. For most people, it’s the first time they move far away from home and learn to live on their own. It is entirely up to you to attend classes, prepare for exams, eat properly and do the laundry. Boring yes, but stimulating! For student-athletes, this leap can feel even bigger.
To help you get clear on what to expect if you’re going to be a student athlete at a college in the US, here are 5 major differences between high school and college life.

1. Being a college athlete feels like more than just a full-time job

During the season itself, Division 1 and 2 athletes will dedicate an average of 50-60 hours per week to sport and study. Between early gym sessions, school lessons, training, study time and matches, the weekly calendar of a student-athlete will be packed! While it’s always rewarding to be outgoing and get to know the many other students, only your teammates and other student-athletes will understand what it’s like to balance your college sport with the responsibilities that come with being a full-time student. It requires passion, opt-outs and time management. That’s just the way it is.

2. Your college team feels like your family!

Going to college or playing sports is a great way to make new friends. Collegesport takes friendship and team spirit to a new level. Student-athletes spend just about every walking and sleeping second with their teammates. You live together, eat together, go to classes together, study together and exercise together. In many cases, you can even vacation with your teammates and go on Spring Break trips together. (That’s great!) Your college teammates are so much more than your friends. They are your support system, they feel like family and they are the ones who make your college a
home
far away from home.

3. College training sessions can be as intense as the matches themselves.

The leap from high school and club sports to collegiate sport in the US can be a big one! Instead of competing and playing against peers, you compete against and with 21-22 year old pure athletes. Players and athletes are bigger, faster and stronger than we are used to. There is an extreme focus on the physical aspect of being an athlete, so there is a lot of weight lifting no matter what sport you do.

Some athletes react to the atmosphere with nerves, while others grow with the challenge and increase their intensity. It’s all about how you react to the changes you will face. Maybe you’ve been used to the fact that not all workouts have to be intense. That mistakes are part of the game. That concentration is not always at its best. Of course, this is also the case in the US. But you don’t have much to give in this regard. Athletes in the US fight tooth and nail for the chance to get a scholarship or improve their current one. Many American players and athletes wouldn’t necessarily be able to afford college if it weren’t for their sport. All of them are there because they have invested tons of time and energy in their sport. No one is going to give you their starting spot as an incoming freshman. You have to fight for it – and in the end, that’s pretty cool!

A short tour of the University of Tennessee facilities.

4. away trips can take several hours.

Whether you’re used to U19 league, divisional or league football, travel time to matches in Denmark and Scandinavia is at most 4-5 hours and most often the opposing teams are less than 1 hour away. In College, your opponents will often be located in other states and travel times can be 6+ hours and more. Usually you travel together in the team bus and fortunately it’s great fun and often becomes a bit of an event in itself. The away trips mean missed classes and weekends away from campus. You can use the time here to do your homework etc. but you are free to do so.

5. College athletes get tons of free gear and equipment!

How do you see who are the student-athletes when walking around the campus? You can be pretty sure they’ll be wearing team shirts, track pants and sneakers for most classes. College teams are sponsored by everything from Nike to Adidasand Under Armour which means you get what you need from shoes, shirts, shorts and more.

In general, the upheaval is big, but just as your life will change, you will evolve too. No matter how you’re doing athletically – or academically, for that matter. We believe in this and that is why we facilitate the opportunity for College in the US. Because it’s a development environment spiced with experiences and memories that you can’t get anywhere else.

Feel free to contact us if you are thinking about a stay in College – or if you just have questions or want to have a chat about scholarships, sports and the US.

NSSA X FANT: From Sierra Leone to the US on a Sport Scholarship

At a time when politics is taking center stage during the World Cup in Qatar, we would like to highlight a story in NSSA that is a great example of how soccer can be used to improve future opportunities and happiness. Here’s a little story about our adventure to Sierra Leone last year.

Kroo Bay; Poverty and a love for soccer

Here, where the African dirt road bends into a bay, towards the busy center of Freetown, a drain runs. Where pigs swim around in knee-high pools of sewage, while women wash clothes a few meters away. In the area around the drain, 17,000 people are crammed into small houses built on top of piles of rubbish. The slum area is called Kroo Bay; notorious for being burdened by extreme poverty and high crime rates.

In the middle of the jumble, you’ll find a large gravel field where all the neighborhood boys and girls gather around soccer. Here you can see Didisatu in her usual surroundings with a ball glued to the foot and a big smile on her face.

Show this post on Instagram

A post shared by NSSA (@nssa.dk)

Soccer as a ticket to getting an education.

In September 2021, NSSA and FANT – For a new tomorrow came together in Sierra Leone for a meaningful purpose. A mission to help a young person from Sierra Leone to a brighter future by providing an education in the US with soccer as a driving force.

For 10 days, we traveled around Sierra Leone and got to know a lot of young players. We held training sessions in 8 different ‘clubs’, held workshops for both local coaches and players, and were eventually able to select some of the young people who, both academically and athletically, would qualify as potential Student Athletes at a University in the US.
The whole idea was that we could show the young people of Freetown how sport can be a catalyst for valuable education and a brighter future. To understand the importance of education and become aware that access can be achieved through hard work on the field.
If we could help just one young person go, it would move mountains for the other local people’s belief in this opportunity and this path.

Soccer as a ticket to an education.

And dear all – mission accomplished! With pride, we are proud to announce that Didi has obtained a four-year degree in the US without having to pay a single penny. Food, housing, books and education costs are paid for through the scholarship she has received.

She will be found running around the fine turf fields of Charleston, South Carolina, dressed in bright blue from head to toe. Here she represents The Citadel University in the top women’s college ranks.

Long story short, Didi has an exciting year ahead and are in good hands at The Citadel. She has been welcomed by the university, her coach and fellow students. Didi has already experienced Washington DC, been to the beach in Florida and many other exciting experiences on away trips.
We are so thrilled that we succeeded and that this opportunity was created.
Thanks to

FANT – Football For A New Tomorrow

for a great collaboration – we look forward to repeating the success in the future.

What is Junior College?

When we talk about college in the US, Junior College is not necessarily the first thing that comes to mind. Especially here in Scandinavia, not everyone knows about it.
The fact is, however, that it’s a great opportunity to take an alternative route on the road to the best sporting college programs in the US.

About Junior College in brief

Junior College (also known as Community College) is a 2-year program where students earn an Associate Degree and compete athletically in the NJCAA.
After these 2 years, you can transfer to a College in
NAIA
or
NCAA
where the last 2 years of the Bachelor program will be completed.
Confused about the federations? Read about the 3 federations and
how Collegesport works here.

What is an associate degree?

An Associate Degree is the first half of a Bachelor’s degree in the United States. This is divided into 2 different aspects; core subjects and electives.
Core subjects are compulsory and include, for example, Mathematics, English and Social Studies. Electives are specific subjects that you choose in collaboration with a counselor who will help you with your studies. the direction you want to take with your education. For example, if you want to study Business, you will probably be pushed towards electives such as Economics, Finance or Marketing.

An Associate Degree is not directly comparable to anything in the European education system, but is effectively equivalent to last year of high school + 1st year of a Bachelor’s degree.
After you have completed your Associate Degree, you will move on to a University where you can complete the last 2 years of your Bachelor’s degree.

Why should I go to Junior College?

There are 2 main reasons why you should go to Junior College.
First of all, if your grades (your academic results) do not qualify you to go directly to a 4-year university. Junior Colleges have lower academic requirements for admission and therefore can be a perfect option for the person who did not get the exam results they expected, hoped or wished for.

In addition, Junior College is also a great opportunity for those athletes who have potential for a major
NCAA
Division 1 college, but who may not currently have the results or athletic resume to get a financial offer that makes sense – yet.
Here, Junior College is a program tailored to development and the opportunity to prove yourself.
Coaches from major colleges and universities recruit international athletes directly from Junior College, as these athletes have already proven that they are capable of living away from home and performing both athletically and academically.
Of the many athletes we have worked with in the NSSA, the athletes with the most lucrative contracts, the greatest development and the best trajectory are often those who have chosen to start their journey at Junior College.

What else are the benefits of Junior College?

At the Junior College, the campus and individual classes are a lot smaller. It creates a closer community – often perfect for those who have not lived away from home before.
For those athletes who have a smaller budget, the Junior College would also be ideal.
As mentioned before, great performance while in Junior College will also open up greater Scholarship opportunities than if you went straight into a 4-year program.

Possibility of state aid.

Besides the fact that there are plenty of Scholarships at the Junior College, you can also apply for state aid for the entire period you are over there. This cannot be guaranteed in all Junior Colleges, but it is an option that should always be explored. This can make living costs very affordable. Ask us if it is.

What about the level and facilities at the Junior College?

Just because Junior College is not a 4-year program does not mean that the level or facilities are inferior.
There are a lot of top athletes running around the Junior College and the facilities are accordingly.
Check out a tour of the soccer facilities at Iowa Western Community College here:

Know your GPA: Why and how to calculate it.

GPA, or grade point average, is a measurement of a student’s academic performance. It is calculated by taking the average of a student’s grades throughout their academic career. GPA is important because it is used by colleges and universities as a means of evaluating a student’s academic potential. In this article, we take an in-depth look at how GPA is calculated and tell you why it is an important factor in the college admissions process.

Understanding the American grading system

When it comes to evaluating a student’s performance at school, different countries and educational institutions use different grading scales. In the United States, the most commonly used grading scale is the traditional 100-point scale, where a student receives a numerical grade between 0 and 100 for each subject. In many other countries, including France, Germany and Denmark, the 7-point scale (00-12) is used as it is comparable to ECTS.

In the United States, the 100-point scale is the most common way to evaluate a student’s performance in school. Under this system, a student receives a numerical grade between 0 and 100 for each subject, where 100 is the highest possible grade and 0 is the lowest. This is then converted to a letter grade.
In general, grades between 90 and 100 are considered excellent and give the student an ‘A’ grade. Grades between 80 and 89 are considered good and give the student a ‘B’ grade.
And so on… We’ve set it out in a table below:

100-point scale	Final mark (A-F)
90-100	A
80-89	B
70-79	C
60-69	D
Under 60	F

Once your grades are converted to a letter grade from A-F, you can start calculating your GPA (your grade point average).
Before we can do that, we need to get a clear understanding of what GPA actually is.

What is GPA?

GPA stands for Grade Point Average. GPA is an important measure of a student’s academic level, and is often used by colleges and universities to assess a student’s admission qualifications, scholarships and other academic opportunities.
It is a numerical expression of a student’s average performance in their subject over a specific period of time, typically a semester or a year. The highest possible GPA is 4.00.

How do I calculate my GPA?

To calculate your grade point average (GPA), you must first convert each of your letter grades into a grade value.
The GPA scale is standardized so that each letter grade has a numerical value corresponding to a certain percentage of the possible grade points. For example, an A grade is assigned a numerical value of 4.0 because it corresponds to 90-92% of the possible grade points. A B+ grade is assigned a numerical value of 3.3 because it corresponds to 87-89% of the possible grade points.

You can see the conversion from letter grade to numeric value in a table below:

Letter grade (A – F)	Numeric value (0.00 – 4.00)
A+	4.0
A	4.0
A-	3.7
B+	3.3
B	3.0
B-	2.7
C+	2.3
C	2.0
C-	1.7
D+	1.3
D	1.0
D-	0.7
F	0.0

Once you have converted each of your letter grades into a grade value, you can calculate your GPA by dividing the total number of grade points you have earned by the total number of credit hours you have taken. For example, if you earned an A in a three credit hour course and a B in a two credit hour course, your GPA would be calculated as follows:

A (4.0*3) + B (3.0*2) = 18

Total credit hours: 3 + 2 = 5

GPA = 18 / 5 =
3.6

Wait, what are Credit Hours?

In the US college education system, Credit Hours is a unit of measurement used to determine the amount of coursework completed by a student. Typically, one Credit Hour is equivalent to one hour of classroom instruction per week during a semester. This means that a three credit hour course requires a student to spend three hours in the classroom each week for one semester. The number of credit hours a course is worth is often related to the time and effort the student is expected to put into the course, with more challenging courses generally using more credit hours.
All in all, a subject where 3 hours of weekly school work is expected will give the subject 3 credit hours.

Is my GPA important if I am going to be a Student Athlete?

GPA is important because colleges and universities use it as a way to measure a student’s academic performance and potential. Universities want to ensure that student athletes can handle the academic demands of college, and a high GPA is one way to show this ability.
In addition, many college sports programs have minimum GPA requirements that student athletes must meet to be eligible to participate in sports. So while GPA is not the only factor universities consider when deciding whether to admit a student athlete, it is an important one.

Are you still confused?

Understandable!
Comparing grading scales across Denmark, the US and the rest of Europe is really difficult, to say the least. The calculation is not very simple and there are many variables.
In addition, the requirements for a GPA for a student athlete differ from college to college.
If you still don’t feel fully equipped to calculate your own GPA, this is not uncommon.
Contact us if you would like us to help you or have a chat about this.
GPA is relevant for sabbaticals, undergraduate programs, exchanges and a Master’s degree, so it never hurts to be on top of this.

How to choose the right College and Sports Programme – for you!

You are a young person considering College Sport but don’t quite know where to start?

Choosing the right college and sports program can feel overwhelming.
In this article, we’ll go through the different factors to consider when choosing the perfect college and sports program for you. From researching the sports program to understanding the financial considerations, we give you all the tips and tricks to make the best decision for your future.

Consider your academic goals.

One of the most important things to consider is how well the given college or university fits your academic goals and dreams.
Many of the athletes we work with – and many young athletes in general – are primarily sporting in their pursuit of a Scholarship in the US. That’s perfectly fine and we understand that. The beauty of college in the US, however, is that it allows you to focus on BOTH sports and academics.
Therefore, it is essential that you think about the educational path you want to take. What do you find exciting? What are you good at? What do you want to improve? What could you see yourself working on in the future?
Once you have answered some of these questions, it is easier to consider whether the potential college has the educational orientation and academic level you are looking for.
There is a big academic difference between Stanford University and Harvey Mudd College, for example. You will have to bring that into your considerations.

Examine the sporting program.

Several factors come into play when assessing the athletic program at a college or university. It is a good idea to research the team’s history. Performance fluctuates a lot in the college world and a good team in 2022 is not necessarily a good team in 2023 – however, this doesn’t change the fact that the team’s history and past results are an indicator of quality and ambition.

The current level of sporting activity
is also essential to examine. Games and other events are often streamed and shown on TV, so there will be plenty of opportunities to find video you can watch of your potential college team on e.g. YouTube.
At the same time, it is also a good idea to check out the sporting facilities. Facilities in the US are generally of a high standard and you can easily find short tours on their website and social channels.

Getting to know the coaching team
is one of the most important things to do before deciding on a college.
In our

college process

one of the most important elements is the coach appraisal. Here you will talk to interested coaches who have seen your highlights and will tell you about their program and get to know you as a person.

Consider the location of the school.

Location can have a big impact on your college experience. That’s just the way it is.
There are colleges in big cities like New York, Chicago or Houston and there are colleges in smaller, local towns like Clemson, St. Charles and Newark. If you like tens of thousands of fellow students and big city life or a closer social environment and a more local community, there is an option for you.
In addition, weather varies from state to state, so if you have a preference for warm weather, this should be taken into consideration as well!

Explore the atmosphere on campus and watch videos from there.

It is important to get a feel for the atmosphere of your future college.
As a potential Student Athlete, it is also important to see the facilities and resources available to you. We have already discussed this map.
Check the school website, social media and search YouTube for videos of the campus and its facilities. Everything from the sporting facilities, canteen facilities, classrooms, the atmosphere and the surrounding city is relevant.
When, during the
College process
coach interviews, the coaches will often send you video material to give you an insight into the campus of the given College. They know it’s important to you.

Financial overview (scholarships, prices, etc.)

The whole financial aspect of college admission is inevitable and very important.
First of all, Scholarships are available with all of the sporting federations we work with(Read more about the 3 sporting federations in the US here).
The financial amount of the given Scholarship depends of course on your sporting and academic level ( read more about how scholarships work here)
In addition, prices at the different colleges vary widely. Harvard University is a significantly more expensive institution than e.g. University of Memphis.
In practice, this means that the price of a given college has a big impact on how much money you will actually have to pay out of your pocket once your Scholarship is deducted.
An example of the construction of an official Scholarship offer can be seen below:

Expense	Amount	Scholarship	Out-of-Pocket Cost
Tuition fees	$20.000	$15.000	$5.000
Room And Board	$10.000	$8.000	$2.000
Books and Supplies	$1.000	$800	$200
Travel (e.g. for games and competitions)	$3.000	$2.500	$500
Meal Plan	$5.000	$4.500	$500
Personal expenses	$2.000	$1.800	$200
Total Cost of Attendence	$41.000	$32.500	$8.500

Focus on yourself!

One of the biggest mistakes you can make when applying for a Scholarship is to compare yourself (too much) with others. We know it’s natural – we did it ourselves when we were going to the US.
“What has the person who played at the same level as me been offered?”
The offer you receive is the result of many variables and careful consideration by the College that makes the offer.
Your education and academic level, your sporting level and history, your physical constitution, the timing of your arrival, your age, demand and much, much more have an impact.
The best advice: Focus on yourself and what you can change, optimize and develop.

We have also written about 5 tips to maximize your scholarship opportunities or about everyday life in College for a Student Athlete if you found this interesting.

Quick guide to the college education system in the US

The US is home to over 4,000 colleges and universities, offering students a wealth of educational opportunities at undergraduate and graduate level. From small, local colleges to large research universities, American institutions offer a diverse mix of academic programs and opportunities. In this article, we provide a quick overview of some of the options available to students interested in pursuing higher education at a college or university in the United States.

Bachelor degree (0-4 years duration)

Examples of undergraduate programs in the US

Bachelor of Arts (BA) in English, with a minor in History
Bachelor of Science (BS) in Biology, with a minor in Chemistry
Bachelor of Fine Arts (BFA) in Graphic Design, with a minor in Marketing
Bachelor of Business Administration (BBA) in Finance, with a minor in Economics

The traditional college option in the US is to go for a 4-year bachelor’s degree.
The first 2 years of an undergraduate degree in the US are typically focused on more general education and introductory courses for your chosen field of study (read: bachelor’s degree). In the last 2 years, you complete electives and more advanced subjects relevant to your field of study. For example, do you have If you choose Business Development as your field of study, you will take subjects such as finance, marketing or business administration.

The US is home to some of the world’s best universities, offering a wide range of academic programs and opportunities for personal and professional development.
In general, the US has a diverse higher education landscape with colleges and universities of all sizes and types. From big research universities like Harvard, Stanford and MIT to small, local colleges like Harvey Mudd College and Hamilton College.

When considering higher education in the United States, consider factors such as location, academic level, athletic programs and cost to find a school that fits your goals.

International students will have to meet certain requirements and go through a different application process than US citizens. This typically involves submitting report cards, test results, essays and other materials to show your academic and personal qualifications. You may also need to take a language test, such as TOEFL or SAT, to prove your English language skills. You also need a student visa to study abroad.
We help with all this through our College process.

Master degree (1-2 years duration)

Examples of Master's programmes in the US

Master of Arts (MA) in English Literature
Master of Science (MS) in Computer Science
Master of Business Administration (MBA) in Management
Master of Education (MEd) in Special Education

A Master’s degree is a higher education qualification that can be obtained after the completion of a Bachelor’s degree. In the United States, a master’s degree typically takes one to two years of full-time study, depending on the field of study and the program.

Obtaining a Master’s degree can bring many benefits, both personally and professionally. A Master’s degree can open up a wide range of career opportunities. Many fields, such as business, education and health, require or prefer candidates with a Master’s degree for more advanced positions.

A Master’s program typically consists of academic work and may also include an internship or research component. Students take advanced courses in their chosen field of study and immerse themselves in it. Some programs also require students to complete a final project or thesis to graduate.
You can be admitted to a Master’s program in the United States even if you have completed your Bachelor’s degree in, for example Denmark.
However, if you have not completed your bachelor’s degree in the US, you will have to go through the same process as described under Bachelor Degree (0-4 years duration) to be admitted. This is one of the things we help with here at NSSA.

Junior College - Associate degree (2 years duration)

Junior colleges, also known as community colleges, are two-year higher education institutions that offer an Associate Degree.
They are often seen as an affordable and accessible option for students who want to further their education without committing to a four-year university straight away.

One of the great benefits of attending a junior college is the ability to transfer to a four-year college or university afterwards. Many junior colleges have transfer agreements with four-year institutions, which can make it easier for students to transfer to a four-year college and complete their bachelor’s degree.
Many students go to Junior College to develop and mature themselves – this can be both athletically and academically. During the 2 years in Junior College, you can improve your sporting and academic performance and get even better offers from 4-year colleges than when you started. Many of the very best athletes in the US have started at Junior College and some of our best stories with clients have also started at Junior College.
If you want to read more, we take a deeper dive in this

article on Junior College.

Exchange (1-2 semesters)

Finally, many college and university programs also offer the possibility for students to participate in exchange programs and study in the United States for a semester or a year.

As an international student and Student Athlete, participating in an exchange semester at a university in the United States can be a challenging but rewarding experience. Not only will you have the opportunity to immerse yourself in a new culture, try different subjects and improve your English language skills, but you will also have the chance to compete at a high level in sports.
The educational culture is generally very different in the US than in Scandinavia, and exchanges can be a much-needed and rewarding change of scenery for many.
Of course, as with all other educational opportunities, your admission to an exchange program in the US requires some practicalities. It could be a visa, tests, sports eligibility or your housing situation when you are over there. This is one of the things we help with here at NSSA.

Ask us about your options!

Here at NSSA, we are primarily concerned with college sports. The combination of higher education and elite sport. An everyday life where academics and athletics are fully integrated – something you won’t find better than at college in the US.
Of course, it is not free. In the US, society is built around user fees, which is a big contrast to education in Denmark and Scandinavia. Fortunately, scholarships and grants are available to make it affordable for international students. We are mainly concerned with Sport Scholarships, which are awarded on the basis of sporting ability in a given sport.
That said, academic scholarships are also very common and are aimed at students who have very good grades.

Take a Gap year at a College in the US

If you’re dreaming of studying abroad after high school, college in the US could be the perfect option. In this short article, we’ll try to help you understand how to combine a gap year with sports, education and memorable experiences in the US.

A gap year in college in the US can be the perfect alternative.

College in the US can be the perfect option for those who want to travel during their gap year. Add to that the fact that you can practice your sport at an elite level, get a taste of American culture and can use your stay to enhance your resume and future job applications.
A gap year in college in the US can give you the full package: education, elite sports, experiences, travel and challenges all in one.

A year that resembles an international high school with a focus on sports.

Going to college in the US during your gap year is not like the traditional gap year of full moon parties in Thailand and autocambers in Australia.
With a gap year in the US, you will be enrolled in an international higher education program as a student athlete and during this year you will study while practicing your sport almost every day.
You’re not going to relax, you’re not going to stand still and you’re going to evolve.
This option – such a place – does not exist in Denmark or Scandinavia. The closest we get are colleges and sports schools.
The big difference is that the education you start.

In Denmark, if you want to pursue both higher education and your elite sport, this is done separately and in 2 different places: the university and the sports club where you train.
Unlike in Scandinavia, the sporting and academic aspects are fully integrated in your everyday life at College in the US.
Campus is where you train, go to school, play games, eat and hang out with your friends, teammates and fellow students – if you’re not at away games or experiencing the rest of the US during your vacations.

So I am going to school during my gap year at College in the US?

Yes, yes, yes! With a gap year in college in the US, education is also a focus. Although it may not be the first priority for many, it will be a regular part of everyday life and you can choose between the many subjects and try out a lot of things, such as can help you choose the right degree program back home in Denmark or simply be the starting point for a 4-year bachelor’s degree in the US.

How much does a stay cost?

The average cost of 1 year of college is very similar to the cost level of continuation schools and folk high schools in Denmark. However, this can vary greatly depending on the university or college in question. The most expensive universities are… expensive!

A big part of our work at NSSA is about reducing costs through scholarships, which are awarded based on athletic and academic performance and levels.

Cost	High-end	Middle-end	Low-end
Tuition and Fees	$50,000	$30,000	$10,000
Room and Board	$15,000	$10,000	$5,000
Books and Supplies	$1,500	$1,000	$500
Transportation	$2,000	$1,000	$500
Miscellaneous	$3,000	$2,000	$1,000
Total	$71,500	$44,000	$17,000
Scholarship Coverage	$57,200	$35,200	$13,600
Student’s Cost	$14,300	$8,800	$3,400

If you’re wondering what to do with your time after high school – whether it’s just a single year in the US, a full bachelor’s degree or something else you’re curious about, please get in touch with us!
Thank you very much for reading.