NCAA foreign tourchecklist

In 2026 the NCAA approved a change allowing Division I programs to take a foreign tour every year instead of once every four years, with additional practices allowed before the tour. More programs are now putting an international trip into their regular planning cycle. This checklist covers what operations staff typically need. Always confirm the current rules with your compliance office.

9–12 months out

• Confirm eligibility, dates and practice allowances with compliance
• Set goals: competition level, culture, service, recruiting story
• Agree a budget range per traveller and funding sources
• Shortlist destinations and request draft programs

6–9 months out

• Choose an operator and sign an agreement with clear inclusions and payment schedule
• Confirm opponents, venues and hotels in writing
• Book flights or confirm the operator is booking them
• Check passport validity for every traveller and visa needs by nationality

3–6 months out

• Collect medical forms, dietary needs and emergency contacts
• Arrange travel insurance that covers sports activity
• Share the risk and emergency plan with your sports medicine staff
• Prepare a parent information session

Final month

• Finalise rooming lists, meal plans and the day-by-day schedule
• Confirm equipment and uniform shipping or carry-on plans
• Set up a group messaging channel with the on-ground coordinator
• Brief athletes on culture, dress, money and safety

Morocco-specific notes

• Flights: nonstop from New York, Washington and Miami to Casablanca, around 7–8 hours.
• Visas: US passport holders enter visa-free for up to 90 days.
• Timing: August, the December break and May fit most academic calendars. Avoid inland cities in midsummer heat.
• Culture: modest dress is appreciated in medinas and rural areas; your coordinator briefs the team on arrival.