When it comes to searching for the right college fit, a great deal of emphasis is placed on the athletics side. After all, finding the right level to compete on the field is of obvious importance.

But academics cannot be overlooked. Whether it's test scores, Honors or Advanced Placement courses, it's another piece to the recruiting puzzle that can help you stand out, and that arguably may be even more important in the long run over your on-field skills.

Leaning on the experts at IMG Academy within their College Placement Department, here are some ways that all areas of academics, including AP and Honors classes, can impact recruiting.

Academics Overview 

*Stretch yourself without breaking, but do not settle. Colleges want to see you challenge yourself successfully.

*Achieve good grades at the highest, appropriate fit level

Offerings - GPA and Academic Honors

*Choose courses wisely to create an accurate profile showcasing interest in certain subjects.

*Create a theme in your transcript, such as taking Honors and AP courses in subjects where you want to challenge yourself and enjoy the course work.

AP Scholars    

*When appropriate, students should take AP classes and sit for the AP exams.

*AP Scholars are recognized by the number of AP courses they take and the marks they earn on the exams. Taking an AP exam and not earning the minimum scores will not earn Scholar recognition.                    

What looks good on a Transcript?

*Admissions offices want competitive recruits – strong in the applicant pool.

*Challenge yourself to the best of your ability. 

High Academic Students - What should they do/take?

*High Academics students should take the most rigorous classes applicable. An easy “A” in a lower level course might limit your options.

Other Notes

*You need to be competitive with the applicant pool if you are not a slotted recruit (i.e. signing an NLI)

*Of note, Division III schools: These programs do not depend on or assume active input from coaches with Admissions.

To learn more about the recruiting process or about IMG Academy’s offerings, register for a free account with TopDrawerSoccer where you can learn more about their soccer development opportunities.

Did you know NCSA offers free college recruiting resources? As the official college recruiting services partner of IMG Academy, you also have access to their tools to help you manage your recruiting journey, make connections, and get recruited. It’s all available when you click here!

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