Learn the Steps to Study in the U.S. as a Student-Athlete
About
A Free EducationUSA Information Session!EducationUSA, the U.S. Department of State’s official source of information on U.S. higher education, provides free, accurate, and comprehensive advising to students considering study in the United States.
The U.S. Consulate General Melbourne is pleased to deliver its first free in-person public information session for 2026, designed for students, parents, school staff, and coaches.
What You’ll Learn
✔ How to organise your college and coach search
✔ Understanding NCAA eligibility
✔ Meeting the 16 NCAA core course requirements
✔ Creating your athletic résumé and contacting coaches
✔ Navigating admissions as an international student
✔ What it really takes to compete and study in the U.S.
Whether you are actively being recruited, supporting a student-athlete, or just beginning to explore the possibility, this session will help you better understand your options and next steps.
Special Guest Conversations
Following the admissions overview, we will transition to a moderated conversation with Australian Olympian Stephanie Ratcliffe and her father, as they share their firsthand experience navigating the U.S. recruitment and admissions journey.
Stephanie was recruited to Harvard University as a hammer thrower, winning her first NCAA championship. She later completed her Master’s degree at the University of Georgia, where she claimed her second NCAA title — becoming the first woman to win a Division I hammer throw championship at two different schools and in non-consecutive years. Her performances and ranking in the hammer throw then earned her selection to represent Australia at the Paris Olympic Games.
Their story will provide practical insights, honest reflections, and encouragement for families considering this pathway.
Session Details
Date: Thursday, March 5, 2026
Time: 6:00 pm – 7:30 pm
Location: Scotch College, 1 Morrison Street, Hawthorn VIC 3122
Venue: Geoffrey McComas Theatre - James Forbes Academy
Registration is required for all attendees. Places are limited, and registration will close once capacity is reached.
New to EducationUSA?
If this is your first engagement with EducationUSA, we encourage you to also attend our upcoming virtual general information session on Thursday, February 26 (6:30 pm – 8:30 pm) before this event. Register at: https://bit.ly/EdUSAFeb26Session
Session Format:
• Part 1 (6:00 pm – approx. 6:40 pm): U.S. admissions overview (suitable for all students just considering academic entry).
• Part 2: (6:40 pm - 7:30 pm) NCAA recruitment pathway, tips, and special guest conversations.
Date
Thursday 5 March 2026 6:00 PM - 7:30 PM (UTC+11)Location
Scotch College
1 Morrison Street, Hawthorn VIC 3122