How IMG Academy Academics Support Elite Athletes

When you think of IMG Academy, world-class athletic training probably comes to mind. But did you know that the academic programs at IMG Academy are just as elite? IMG Academy is more than just a sports academy. For student-athletes working to excel in both academics and athletics, IMG Academy provides unmatched resources that support success in and out of the classroom.

“I always say that at some point, there is a life beyond athletics. I never want our students to define their entire identity through sport alone, because they are so much more than just their sport. I think it’s important that we nurture that here,” says CaLeathiea Cornelius, Assistant Head of School.

IMG Academy Is Built For Student-Athletes

The commitment to academic excellence is reflected in IMG Academy’s student-athletes’ successes. The class of 2025 had a weighted GPA of 3.66, and 84 students were National Honor Society members.

A College-Preparatory Curriculum Built for Athletes

IMG Academy offers a rigorous college-preparatory curriculum designed to meet NCAA eligibility standards and prepare students for admission to top colleges.

With core subjects, Honors and AP courses available, along with dual enrollment opportunities in collaboration with Barry University, student-athletes are academically challenged and well-prepared for the demands of college coursework.

In 2025, 470 student-athletes enrolled in 21 AP courses, including 173 seniors. That year, students took 969 AP tests, enabling them to start college with credits to help earn their degrees.

“I think this environment helps them with their ability to be independent and balance the demands of both being an athlete and making sure they keep up with their studies,” adds Cornelius.

Balancing Books and Training: A Flexible Academic Schedule

IMG Academy’s unique schedule allows student-athletes to train at a high level without sacrificing academic performance.

Students attend classes during designated academic blocks that complement their sports training.

Thanks to a 4:1 staff-to-student ratio, smaller class sizes ensure each student-athlete receives personalized instruction, fostering deeper understanding and academic growth.

To succeed at IMG Academy, student-athletes must learn how to manage their coursework with their athletics, mirroring the environment they’ll find at the next level.

Academic Support Services at IMG Academy

Personalized Academic Advising

Every student at IMG Academy receives individualized guidance from experienced academic advisors. These professionals help student-athletes map out class schedules, monitor progress, and create academic strategies tailored to their athletic and personal goals.

Advisors also assist with ensuring NCAA eligibility and college admissions requirements are met.

“My academic advisor’s the best,” says IMG Academy golf student-athlete Jaxon Brown, who credits his advisor with helping him understand how to balance academics and athletics.

Watch the video below to see how IMG Academy set Brown up for success.

Tutoring and Learning Resources

Whether a student needs extra help in math or support preparing for an exam, IMG Academy offers comprehensive tutoring services at our Learning Resource Center, where student-athletes can drop into at any free period during their day. These include one-on-one sessions with subject experts, structured study halls, and learning labs.

Academic affairs managers also join teams on longer road trips to ensure student-athletes can keep up with tests and other assignments they would have missed otherwise, giving them extra tools to balance strong academic and athletic opportunities.

College Counseling and SAT/ACT Prep

College placement is a key priority at IMG Academy. Through expert college counseling services, student-athletes receive help with everything from SAT/ACT preparation to application strategy and essay writing.

Counselors also guide student-athletes through the recruiting process, aligning their academic goals with potential athletic scholarships. Seven students in IMG Academy’s class of 2025 committed to continue their education in the Ivy League and 25 were admitted to US News top 25 colleges and universities.

Watch the video below to see how IMG Academy’s college counseling and coaching staff helped Feldman:

Learn more about IMG Academy’s college placement resources.

Real-Life Success Stories

Student Spotlights

Many IMG Academy alumni have gone on to attend prestigious colleges, not just as athletes, but as scholars. Student-athlete spotlights highlight individuals who excelled in both arenas, showcasing how IMG Academy’s academic support contributed to their well-rounded development.

IMG Academy alumna Charley Goberville said she liked the block scheduling that enabled student-athletes to take longer classes, which made lessons more engaging.

“Teachers have more time to focus in on something and get through an entire lesson,” she says.

See how IMG Academy helped Goberville prepare for an Ivy League education at Cornell University:

College Commitments

IMG Academy boasts a high rate of college commitments each year, with student-athletes landing at top NCAA Division I, II, and III and NAIA programs.

These commitments are more than athletic achievements - they’re a testament to the academic preparation IMG Academy students receive. Read more about the achievements of the class of 2025 here.

Discover the academic edge that sets elite athletes apart

Learn more about enrolling at IMG Academy.

FAQs About Academic Life at IMG Academy

Does IMG Academy have academics?

Yes, IMG Academy offers a full-time accredited academic program for student-athletes from middle school through post-graduate levels.

Is it difficult to get into IMG Academy?

Admission is selective and based on academic performance, athletic ability, and character, but IMG considers each applicant holistically.

Do student-athletes get help with time management at IMG Academy?

Yes. Student-athletes receive coaching on time management, study strategies, and organizational skills to balance academics and athletics effectively.

Can IMG Academy help with NCAA eligibility?

Absolutely. IMG Academy’s curriculum is aligned with NCAA requirements, and advisors work closely with student-athletes to ensure all academic standards are met.

How many hours a week do student-athletes study at IMG Academy?

Study time varies by student and grade level, but IMG Academy ensures ample time is allocated daily for academic work, supported by tutors and faculty.

What colleges do IMG Academy student-athletes go to?

IMG Academy students attend a wide range of colleges, including Ivy League schools, Power Five athletic programs, and elite liberal arts institutions.

Is there support for international student-athletes at IMG Academy?

Yes. IMG Academy provides ESL support and cultural transition resources to help international students adapt and succeed academically.

What kind of tutoring is available at IMG Academy?

Student-athletes can access subject-specific tutoring, writing help, test prep, and learning support through IMG Academy’s academic resource centers.