An official or unofficial visit is essentially one extended interview where the college coach evaluates whether you're a good fit for their program. Throughout the visit, the coach is not only considering your athletic abilities but also your personality, character, and work ethic to determine whether you’ll fit into the team’s culture. From casual conversations to formal meetings, every interaction gives the coach insight into your character and commitment. Expect a variety of questions designed to gauge your motivation, time management, and ability to handle the pressures of being a student-athlete.
Below are 25 common questions college coaches may ask you during your official/unofficial visits, along with suggestions on how to best answer them.
1. Why do you want to play for our program?
What they’re asking:
Are you genuinely interested in their program, and have you done your research?
Talking Points:
● Mention specific aspects of the team’s playstyle, culture, or coaching approach that align with your strengths.
● Explain how the program’s values align with both your athletic and academic goals.
● Demonstrate that you’ve followed the team’s success and see a long-term fit.
Example Response:
“As a soccer player, I’ve always been drawn to a possession-oriented style of play, which I know your team emphasizes. Out of all the teams I’ve played on, I perform my best in this system because of my strong foot skills and ability to make quick, intelligent passes. I believe my strengths could help elevate your team’s ability to control the ball and tempo. I also appreciate how your program places equal importance on academic success, which is something I value highly, as I plan to major in nursing.”
2. How do you handle adversity or tough losses?
What they’re asking:
Do you have mental toughness and resilience?
Talking Points:
● Share a specific moment when you experienced adversity or loss.
● Explain the steps you took to move forward from the challenge.
● Highlight how that experience shaped you as a more resilient athlete.
Example Response:
“During my junior year basketball season, we lost a heart-breaking regional final by one point in the last second. I took the loss personally because I missed a critical free throw. Instead of letting it defeat me, I spent the summer working with a coach to improve my free throws, shooting hundreds each day. When we made it back to regionals the next year, I hit all six of my free throws in the final minutes, and we won. That loss taught me the importance of mental toughness, learning from my mistakes, and turning weaknesses into strengths.”
3. What are your academic goals?
What they’re asking:
How seriously do you take academics?
Talking Points:
● Share your long-term academic aspirations.
● Emphasize the balance you’ve achieved between academics and athletics.
● Show how your academic goals align with the program’s offerings.
Example Response 1 (for students with clear academics goals):
“I plan to major in biology with the goal of attending medical school after college. I’ve always been passionate about science and have taken AP Biology and Chemistry to prepare myself for the rigor of college academics. I’ve maintained a 3.9 GPA while playing varsity lacrosse, and I’ve learned how to balance my schedule effectively. I’m particularly drawn to your school because of the research opportunities available to undergraduates in your biology department, which I feel will help me reach my goal of becoming a doctor.”
Example Response 2 (for students that are still determining their academic goals):
"My main goal right now is to keep improving as a student while also pushing myself as an athlete. I know academics are important, and even though my grades haven’t always been the highest, I’ve been working hard to improve them by staying organized and focused. I’m looking forward to majoring in sports management, where I can combine my passion for sports with academics that are more aligned with my interests. I’ve learned to balance my training schedule with my schoolwork, and I believe your program’s emphasis on both athletics and academics will help me succeed on and off the field."
4. How would your coaches and teammates describe you?
What they’re asking:
Are you a team player and a good leader?
Talking Points:
● Focus on the leadership qualities you bring to the team.
● Share examples of how you’ve helped or supported teammates.
● Emphasize how you bring a positive attitude to practice and games.
Example Response:
"I think my coaches and teammates would probably say I'm someone who works hard and tries to lead by example. Last season, a few teammates confided in me that they were struggling with their confidence, so I suggested we all stay after practice for some extra shooting drills to work on it together. I always do my best to stay positive and encourage everyone, especially when games get tough. I’m not the loudest on the field, but I hope that by showing up and staying committed, I can motivate others to keep pushing as well."
5. What are your strengths as an athlete?
What they’re asking:
Do you know your strengths and how they contribute to the team?
Talking Points:
● Identify key physical, mental, or technical strengths that impact your performance.
● Discuss how these strengths have helped your team succeed.
● Show that you continuously work to hone these strengths.
Example Response:
"My main strengths as a soccer player are my speed and positioning. As a winger, I rely on my pace to stretch the defense and create space for my teammates. In last season’s playoffs, I scored the winning goal in overtime by getting in behind the defense and finishing with composure. I have also worked hard to develop a positive and resilient mindset. I’ve learned to take note of any mistakes I make so I can make the necessary corrections, but I don’t let them weigh me down—staying focused on the next play is key to performing at a high level."
6. What are your weaknesses, and how are you working to improve them?
What they’re asking:
Are you self-aware and working on improvement?
Talking Points:
● Be honest about a specific area where you’re working to improve.
● Explain what steps you’re taking to address this weakness.
● Show commitment to ongoing improvement and growth.
Example Response:
"One area I’ve been working on is my weaker foot. I’ve always been more dominant with my right, but I realize how important it is to be versatile on both sides. To improve, I’ve been dedicating extra time in training to practice passing, shooting, and dribbling with my left foot. It’s been paying off—last season, I became more comfortable using my left during games, which allowed me to contribute in new ways, like delivering crosses from both sides of the field."
7. Why do you love your sport?
What they’re asking:
Are you passionate about the sport beyond just competing?
Talking Points:
● Share how the sport has impacted your life beyond the competition.
● Discuss how playing has shaped your character or taught you life lessons.
● Highlight the aspects of the sport that continue to inspire and challenge you.
Example Response:
“I’ve loved basketball since I was a kid. I think what I love most is the mental aspect of the game—how quick decision-making and teamwork are just as important as physical skills. Playing basketball has taught me about leadership, discipline, and how to overcome adversity, both on and off the court. It’s pushed me to become a better version of myself and helped me develop skills like communication and perseverance that I apply in every aspect of my life.
For example, during a group project at school, one of our team members didn’t show up for the final presentation. Instead of panicking, we quickly communicated, reassigned their part, and worked together to make sure we could cover all the material. It reminded me of how, just like on the basketball court, staying calm under pressure and working as a team can help overcome unexpected challenges."
8. What role do you see yourself playing on the team?
What they’re asking:
Are you confident but realistic about your contributions?
Talking Points:
● Discuss how your specific skills align with the team’s needs.
● Show confidence in your ability to contribute but remain open to development.
● Demonstrate your understanding of team dynamics and flexibility.
Example Response:
"I see myself contributing as a libero, in your volleyball program, because I focus on controlling the flow of the game and reading the opposing team’s attacks. I’ve worked hard to improve my ability to anticipate plays and make quick defensive moves, which I believe aligns well with your team’s focus on strong, organized defense. That said, I think a great team player is someone who’s adaptable and versatile, so I’m ready to play wherever the team needs me and contribute in any way I can. I’m excited to learn and grow under the coaching staff and find ways to support the team in any role that’s needed."
9. What motivates you to succeed in sports?
What they’re asking:
What drives you to perform at a high level?
Talking Points:
● Talk about your internal drive for improvement and growth.
● Mention how setting and achieving goals keeps you focused.
● Highlight the influence of teammates and the desire to help the team succeed.
Example Response:
"My biggest motivation comes from my desire to improve every day. I’m always looking for ways to push my limits and see how much better I can get, whether it’s in practice or during a game. I also set short- and long-term goals to keep myself focused. For example, this season my goal was to get at least 3 more assists, and 2 more goals, than I did last year, so I worked tirelessly on my passing and positioning to make it happen. Seeing that hard work pay off and helping my team succeed drives me to keep pushing forward."
10. How do you handle criticism from coaches?
What they’re asking:
Can you accept feedback and learn from it?
Talking Points:
● Discuss how you process and apply feedback to improve.
● Provide a specific example of when constructive criticism helped you grow.
● Emphasize your openness to learning and development.
Example Response:
“I see criticism as a valuable tool to help me improve. Last year, my coach pointed out that I needed to improve my defensive positioning as a forward. Instead of taking it personally, I worked with my coach after practice to better understand defensive angles and worked on tracking back more effectively. By the end of the season, I had significantly improved my defensive play, which made me a more well-rounded player. I’ve learned that feedback is essential for growth.”
11. How do you balance sports and academics?
What they’re asking:
Are you organized and disciplined with your time?
Talking Points:
● Describe your time management strategies, like creating a schedule or using a planner.
● Provide examples of how you’ve balanced both successfully.
● Mention any academic support systems you use to stay on track.
Example Response (for students with strong time management habits):
“I’ve developed a disciplined routine to make sure I can balance both soccer and academics effectively. I use a planner to block out time for studying and make sure I complete assignments before traveling for games. Last year, I was able to maintain a 3.8 GPA while playing on two teams by staying organized and making use of study halls during away tournaments. I also seek help from my teachers and tutors whenever I feel I’m falling behind in a subject.”
Example Response (for students who are working on time management):
"Balancing sports and academics has been a challenge for me, but it’s something I’m actively working on improving. I’ve had times where my grades were lower than I’d like, but I’ve started using a planner to map out my week and make sure I have dedicated study time, especially around my practices and games. I’ve also reached out for help from teachers and tutors when I need it, and that’s made a big difference. My academic goal is to keep improving my grades while continuing to grow as an athlete, and I believe that with the right support, like your school’s academic resources for athletes, I can achieve that."
12. What other schools are you considering?
What they’re asking:
How serious are you about their program compared to others?
Talking Points:
● Be honest about other schools you’re considering.
● Highlight what makes their program stand out to you.
● Reiterate your genuine interest in their school and how it aligns with your goals.
Example Response:
"I’m considering a few other programs, including [School A] and [School B], but what sets your school apart is its strong business program and the team’s possession-oriented style of play—both of which are exactly what I’m looking for in a college. On top of that, being just two hours from home means my family could come to watch my games, which is really important to me. The combination of your academic offerings, playstyle, and proximity to home puts your program at the top of my list."
13. Who has been your biggest influence as an athlete?
What they’re asking:
What has shaped your journey?
Talking Points:
● Share a personal story about someone who has inspired you.
● Explain how their influence has impacted your work ethic and attitude toward the sport.
● Mention the lessons you’ve learned from them that you apply to your athletic and personal life.
Example Response:
"My high school football coach, Coach Roberts, has had the biggest impact on me as an athlete. When I joined the varsity football team as a sophomore, I was one of the youngest players, and I struggled with confidence. After practice one day, Coach Roberts pulled me aside and told me he saw real potential in me, but that I needed to believe in myself and put in the extra work to develop my skills. He introduced me to the idea of putting in 'the unseen hours'—staying after practice for additional drills and working on my game when no one else was around. That advice completely changed my approach. I started coming in early and staying late to work on my footwork, conditioning, and technique. Coach Roberts’ belief in me fueled my determination, and it’s a mindset I carry with me into every game and practice now."
14. What has been your biggest challenge as an athlete?
What they’re asking:
Have you faced and overcome obstacles?
Talking Points:
● Provide an example of a significant challenge (injury, setback, etc.).
● Discuss how you approached and overcame the challenge.
● Highlight the resilience and perseverance you gained from the experience.
Example Response (for students that have experienced an injury):
"My biggest challenge came when I tore my ACL during my junior year basketball season. It was devastating because I missed the rest of the season and felt disconnected from the team. After surgery, the physical therapy process was long and grueling, and there were days I doubted whether I'd be able to return to the same level of play. However, I stayed focused on my recovery, following my rehab plan diligently and even doing extra strengthening exercises at home. I returned to the court at the start of my senior year, and although it took time to regain my confidence, I ended up leading the team in scoring that season. The injury taught me the value of patience, mental toughness, and believing in the process of gradual improvement."
Example Response (for students that have not experienced an injury):
"One of the biggest challenges I’ve faced as an athlete has been maintaining a balance between school, sports, and other commitments. Managing a full schedule while making time for training and games can be demanding, but I’ve learned how important it is to stay organized and disciplined. By prioritizing my time and staying focused on my goals, I’ve been able to manage the workload effectively. This experience has taught me the value of hard work, consistency, and time management, both on and off the field."
15. What do you like to do outside of sports?
What they’re asking:
Are you a well-rounded individual?
Talking Points:
● Mention hobbies, volunteer work, or extracurricular activities that you enjoy.
● Explain how these activities contribute to your personal growth and development.
● Emphasize the importance of maintaining balance in your life.
Example Response 1 (for students into hair and makeup):
"Outside of sports, I’m really into hair and makeup. I love experimenting with different looks and techniques, especially when it comes to doing makeup for special events. Whenever my friends have a prom, dance, or important occasion, I’m usually the one they call to help them get ready. It’s a fun, creative outlet for me, and I love seeing how amazing they feel afterward."
Example Response 2 (for students into cars):
"I’ve always been really into cars. I like learning about different makes and models, how they’re built, and what makes each one unique. I spend a lot of time reading about cars and watching videos to learn more about mechanics and performance. My goal is to eventually work on my own car and maybe even restore a classic one someday."
Example Response 3 (for students into baking):
"Outside of sports, I love baking. I enjoy finding new recipes and experimenting with different flavors and techniques. Whether it’s trying out a new cookie recipe or baking a cake from scratch, I find it really relaxing. Plus, I love being able to share what I make with my family and friends, and they love it too!"
16. What are your goals for your athletic career?
What they’re asking:
Are you focused and driven?
Talking Points:
● Share your short- and long-term goals, both for your collegiate and post-collegiate career.
● Emphasize how you want to contribute to the team’s success and develop as an athlete.
● Balance athletic goals with academic and personal growth aspirations.
Example Response:
"My short-term goal is to make an impact on the team by bringing high-energy, intensity, and focus, whether I’m on the court for the entire match or a single rotation. I know that every role on the team is important, and I want to do whatever I can to help the team succeed. In the long term, I hope to earn the role of a go-to player who can help control the flow of the game and be someone the team can rely on during tough moments. I really look up to [Current Player] on your roster because of how composed and dependable she is, and I aspire to develop into that kind of player as I grow in the program."
17. How do you contribute to team culture?
What they’re asking:
Are you a positive influence on the team?
Talking Points:
● Discuss your role in fostering positive relationships with teammates.
● Provide examples of how you support and encourage your teammates.
● Highlight how you lead by example, even in difficult situations.
Example Response:
"I contribute to team culture by focusing on the small things that can really make a difference. For example, I try to be inclusive at practice, especially with new players, making sure they feel welcome and comfortable. I know how much it means when someone takes the time to include you, so I always try to be that person. If a teammate makes a mistake, I stay positive and encourage them to keep going, because I know we all have moments like that. Little acts of kindness and support go a long way in building a strong team, and I always aim to treat others how I’d want to be treated."
18. Do you have any concerns about playing at the college level?
What they’re asking:
Are you aware of the challenges ahead?
Talking Points:
● Acknowledge potential challenges such as time management, competition level, or the physical demands of college sports.
● Emphasize your confidence in your ability to adapt and overcome these challenges.
● Show that you’ve already started preparing mentally and physically for the transition.
Example Response:
"One of my main concerns about playing at the college level is time management. I know that balancing school and sports in college is going to be more intense than what I’ve experienced in high school. That being said, I’m a really hard worker, and I’m confident that I’ll be able to adjust and get the hang of it within the first few weeks. Plus, knowing that your program has a strong team culture and great academic support really makes me feel more confident that I’ll have the resources to manage everything and succeed both on and off the field."
19. What do you think sets you apart from other recruits/athletes?
What they’re asking:
What unique qualities do you bring to the table?
Talking Points:
● Highlight a combination of your physical, mental, and emotional strengths.
● Provide examples of how these qualities have helped you perform in high-pressure situations.
● Emphasize your work ethic and willingness to put in extra effort.
● TIP: Don’t badmouth other recruits, don’t directly compare yourself to them, and don’t imply that you are superior to them in some way--focus on yourself and your own strengths in your response.
Example Response:
“I've always been proud of myself for being realistic about my abilities and setting aside extra time to give myself a competitive edge. When I was younger, I realized I wasn’t the fastest on the field, and I learned that speed wasn’t something I could drastically improve or control. So, I decided to focus on what I could control—my footskills. I worked tirelessly every day to master them, knowing that being the most skilled with the ball would set me apart. I think that dedication to honing my technical skills, even when other aspects of my game weren’t as naturally strong, is my greatest strength. I’m always looking for ways to improve and bring something valuable to the team.”
20. Do you have any questions for me?
What they’re asking:
Are you engaged and genuinely interested in their program?
Talking Points:
● Ask thoughtful, specific questions that show you’ve researched the program.
● Focus on both the athletic and academic aspects of the school.
● Use the opportunity to gain insight into team culture, coaching style, or development opportunities.
Example Questions:
● “What do you look for in an athlete?”
● “What does a typical day or week look like for a student-athlete on your team in season?”
● “What does the off-season schedule look like?”
● “What should I expect as the next steps in the recruiting process for your program?”
21. What are your grades like?
What they’re asking:
Coaches want to gauge your academic performance and ensure you're capable of handling the rigorous demands of college-level work alongside athletics.
Talking Points:
● Share your GPA and any advanced or honors courses you’ve taken.
● Highlight your ability to balance academics and sports.
● Mention any academic achievements or awards.
Example Response 1 (for students with strong grades):
"My GPA is currently a 3.9, and I’ve worked hard to maintain strong academic standing while playing varsity basketball and being involved in other extracurriculars. I’ve taken several AP courses, including AP Chemistry and AP English, and I make it a priority to stay on top of my assignments, even during busy sports seasons. Last year, I received the Academic Excellence Award at my school, which recognizes students who excel in both academics and athletics."
Example Response 2 (for students with lower grades):
"School hasn’t always come easy to me, but I work extremely hard to keep up. My GPA is currently 2.8, and while it’s not as high as I’d like, I’ve made a lot of progress over the past year by developing better study habits and seeking help from tutors when needed. One of my strengths is my ability to stay disciplined and manage my time between school and athletics. I believe my work ethic and determination to improve academically, along with my strengths on the field, make me a well-rounded student-athlete."
22. What do you want to major in?
What they’re asking:
Coaches want to know if you have clear academic goals and how those goals fit into your overall college experience.
Talking Points:
● Share your intended major and why it interests you.
● Explain how this major aligns with your long-term career goals.
● Show that you’ve researched the school’s academic offerings.
Example Response (for students who know their major):
"I’m interested in majoring in kinesiology because I’ve always been fascinated by how the body works, especially in relation to sports performance and injury prevention. My long-term goal is to become a physical therapist and work with athletes to help them recover from injuries and improve their performance. I’ve researched your kinesiology program, and I’m particularly impressed by the hands-on learning opportunities, like internships at your sports performance labs. I feel that this major will allow me to combine my passion for sports with a career in helping others."
Example Response (for students who are going in undecided):
"Right now, I’m undecided on my major, but I’m really excited to explore my options in college. I’ve always been interested in a few areas like business and communications, but I want to take some time to figure out what I’m truly passionate about. I know college is a great opportunity to discover what I enjoy most, so I’m keeping an open mind. I’m confident that, with the variety of programs at your school, I’ll find the right path as I learn more about different fields."
23. How do you balance academics and athletics?
What they’re asking:
They want to see if you have time management skills and a track record of succeeding in both areas.
Talking Points:
● Discuss your time management strategies, such as using a planner or setting daily priorities.
● Provide an example of how you’ve successfully balanced both academics and athletics.
● Mention any academic support you’ve used, such as study groups or tutoring.
Example Response 1 (for students with a GPA above 3.0):
I’ve worked hard to develop good time management skills, which has really helped me balance my academic and athletic responsibilities. I like to use a planner to break down my day, making sure I have time set aside for homework, studying, practice, and rest. I also make the most of study halls and tutoring sessions, especially when I’m traveling for away games and know I won’t have much time over the weekend for school work. This approach has helped me maintain a 3.6 GPA while playing a full season."
Example Response 2 (for students with a GPA below 3.0):
"Balancing academics and athletics has been challenging for me, but I’ve learned a lot about time management and hard work. I use a daily planner to make sure I stay on top of my assignments and sports commitments. Last year, my grades weren’t where I wanted them to be, but I’ve made improvements by working with a tutor and setting aside specific time each day for studying. While my grades aren’t perfect, I’ve shown significant growth, and I’m confident that the skills I’ve developed will help me manage the demands of being a college athlete."
24. Have you taken the SAT/ACT?
What they’re asking:
Coaches want to know your standardized test scores to ensure you meet the academic requirements for admission.
Talking Points:
● Share your SAT/ACT scores if available.
● Discuss your preparation process and any plans to retake the test if necessary.
● If you haven’t taken the test, mention when you’re scheduled and how you’re preparing.
Example Response 1 (for students that want to improve their ACT/SAT score):
"Yes, I’ve taken the ACT and scored a 28. I’m planning to retake it next month and am hoping to improve my score, aiming for a 30 or higher. I’ve been focusing on studying and working with a tutor, especially in the math section, which I found to be my weakest area."
Example Response 2 (for students that want to improve their ACT/SAT score):
"I’ve taken the ACT and scored a 21, which isn’t as high as I’d hoped. I’ve always found standardized tests challenging, but I’m preparing to retake it by using test prep resources and working with a tutor. I’ve already seen improvement in my practice scores, especially in the reading and science sections. I may not be the strongest test taker, but I’m determined to raise my score."
Example Response 3 (for students that are satisfied with their ACT/SAT score):
“Yes, I’ve taken the ACT and scored a 28, which I believe meets the admission requirements. I’m happy with the score and am planning to apply with it unless you advise otherwise.”
25. What’s your academic support system like?
What they’re asking:
Coaches want to know if you have the resources and discipline to succeed academically, especially when facing the demands of college athletics.
Talking Points:
● Describe any academic support systems you currently use, such as tutoring or study groups.
● Highlight your self-discipline and commitment to staying on track academically.
● Mention any involvement from family or mentors who help you stay focused.
Example Response 1 (for students with strong academic habits):
"I’ve always had a strong academic support system, both at home and at school. My parents have always emphasized the importance of education, and they’ve helped me establish good study habits. I’m very self-motivated, so I make sure to create study schedules, especially when we’re in the middle of sports seasons. I know that this support system and my discipline will help me stay on track in college as well."
Example Response 2 (for students needing extra support):
"I’ve always had to put in extra effort academically, especially in subjects like math which isn’t my strong suit. I regularly work with my teachers individually and use the resources my school provides to help me keep up. I know I’ll need to keep using these strategies in college to balance both academics and athletics, and I’m prepared for the challenge."
