The GSC Decision matrix

There could be a thousand different opportunities available to a potential student/athlete. GSC's decision matrix uses the following criteria to find the best possible fit for our clients.

You have finished secondary studies:

You have one year to enroll in a university after finishing high school to be eligible for division 1 athletics. You need to take the SAT (a multiple choice test of math and English) as well as the TOEFL which determines the English level of foreign students. SAT tests are given on Saturdays throughout the year. The TOEFL test is given throughout the year using a computer testing and scoring system. The minimum levels needed to enroll in a Division 1 school are usually possible with a small amount of preparation. However, high scores on these tests are important if you want a spot at a top academic school and this may require serious home preparation or a test preparation course. These tests must be taken well in advance of enrolling in a US institution since they are part of the admissions process. College applications (with test scores) are usually done in the fall of the year before a student enrolls in school and may include essays and personal interviews.

You have begun upper level studies in your home country:

If you have finished your secondary studies and begun upper level studies in your home country, you may be able to enter the US college system as a transfer student with credits towards your final degree. There are different requirements to fulfill than if you were starting at age 18, but the TOEFL and perhaps the SAT would still be required. The number of years you studied in your country will affect how many years you can compete for a US university. The studies you are pursuing and those which you pursue in the US will affect the how many years of US credit you receive for your work in your home university..

You did not finish high school or performed poorly on exams:

NAIA schools do not require the SAT. Junior colleges, designed for students needing more academic work, do not require the SAT and accept an alternative high school degree. After 1 or 2 years at these schools, players can switch to Division 1 schools if they have made proper academic progress. Students who finish a 2 year degree at a junior college and transfer to a Division 1 school will begin in the third year of studies and not at the beginning.

Other rules--Age

If you do not enter school in the US or your own country within one year of completing high school it will be difficult for you to play Division 1 tennis. After a certain age you are not eligible to play Division 1 tennis even if you have been enrolled in university in your country. All other divisions will still be open to you.

Professional status

Professionals are unable to compete for athletic teams at US colleges! College tennis is for amateur athletes. This is often an area where foreign athletes have problems. The rules state that an athlete can never have received payment from their respective sport. Please speak with us about this if you have any questions.