Official vs. Unofficial Visits in NCAA D1 Soccer: Rules, Tips & What to Expect
From The Premier Playbook
If you’re serious about playing Division 1 soccer, your recruiting journey isn’t just about highlight videos and emails — it’s also about stepping foot on campus. Campus visits give you the real feel for a program’s culture, facilities, and people.
But here’s the catch: not all visits are the same. In NCAA D1 recruiting, there are two main types — official visits and unofficial visits — and knowing the difference could shape your recruiting strategy.
Let’s break it down.
What Is an Official Visit in D1 Soccer?
An official visit is when a college pays for part or all of your trip to campus. That could include:
- Airfare, gas money, or other travel expenses
- Hotel or dorm lodging
- Meals during your stay
- Tickets to a home game or campus event
NCAA D1 Rules for Official Visits (Soccer):
- When you can start: August 1, before junior year of high school
- Limits: Up to 5 total official visits (max 1 per school)
- Length: No more than 48 hours
- Who’s covered: You and your parents/guardians
What to Expect:
A full campus and facilities tour
- Meetings with coaches, academic advisors, and support staff
- Watching a team practice or game
- Time with current players (your “host”)
- Meals with the team or staff
💡 Pro Tip: If a school invites you for an official visit, you’re high on their recruiting list. They don’t spend money on just anyone.
What Is an Unofficial Visit in D1 Soccer?
An unofficial visit is when you cover your own costs — travel, meals, lodging — but you still get valuable face time with coaches and a look at the program.
NCAA D1 Rules for Unofficial Visits (Soccer):
- When you can start: Anytime, but coach meetings are only allowed during approved NCAA contact periods
- Limits: Unlimited — visit as many schools as you want, as many times as you want
- Perks: Schools can give you up to 3 free tickets to a home game for you and guests
What to Expect:
- Self-guided or coach-led campus tour
- Meeting with the coaching staff (if within NCAA rules)
- Watching a practice or game
- Exploring dorms, dining halls, and training facilities
💡 Pro Tip: Use unofficial visits early in your recruiting journey to learn what you like — and don’t like — in a program.
Quick Comparison: Official vs. Unofficial D1 Soccer Visits
| Feature | Official Visit | Unofficial Visit |
|---|---|---|
| Who Pays? | School | You |
| Limit | 5 total (1 per school) | Unlimited |
| Start Date | Aug 1 before junior year | Anytime |
| Length | Max 48 hours | No limit |
| Perks | Travel, lodging, meals, tickets | Free game tickets only |
How to Use Each Type of Visit in Your Recruiting Strategy
-
Start with Unofficial Visits
Freshman & sophomore years are perfect for casual campus visits to get a feel for different programs. -
Save Official Visits for Your Top Picks
Use these for schools where interest is strong on both sides. -
Prepare Questions in Advance
Remember, you’re interviewing the program as much as they’re evaluating you. -
Follow Up with Coaches
Send a thank-you email after every visit. Include any new highlight clips or updated academic info. -
Track Everything
Use your Premier Playbook Recruiting Tracker to log visit details, impressions, and next steps.
Final Takeaway
Whether it’s official or unofficial, a campus visit is one of the most valuable steps in your recruiting process. Be professional, prepared, and ready to make a strong impression.