Starting too late, focusing only on basketball, hiding the real budget… The pitfalls we see most often, and how to avoid them.
Every project is different, but some mistakes come up again and again. None of them is serious if spotted in time. Here are the ones we see most often, and how to avoid them.
Starting too late
Finding a school, putting the application together, taking English tests, getting the visa: it all takes time. A family that starts a few months before the target school year has far fewer options. Ideally, the project is prepared a year, or even a year and a half, before departure.
Thinking only about basketball
In the United States, grades matter as much as level of play. A player who neglects their grades greatly reduces their options, and can even lose the right to play once there. The school report is part of the athletic profile.
Not sharing the real budget
Some families hesitate to share their budget, out of modesty or fear of closing doors. The opposite happens: without a clear budget, it is impossible to target the right schools. Being transparent from the start saves everyone precious time.
Choosing based on a name or social media
A well-known school, or one that is very active on Instagram, isn't necessarily the right one for your profile. What matters: your role on the team, possible playing time, the academic level, supervision and daily life. Playing and progressing beats sitting on the bench of a prestigious team.
Leaving English for later
Your English level affects admission, classes and integration. Many players wait until the last minute to work on it. Working on your English regularly, as soon as the project starts, makes everything else easier.
Our tips
- Start early: one year to a year and a half before departure.
- Take care of your grades as much as your game.
- Be transparent about your budget from the first conversation.
- Choose a school for your profile, not for its name.
- Work on your English every week.
We help you avoid these pitfalls
At UFM, we support each family from A to Z: profile assessment, choice of schools, application, visa and on-site follow-up. Our role is precisely to help you avoid these mistakes. To talk about it, book your free call.
