Prep School by the Marta Kostyuk Foundation: Preparing Young Tennis Players for Education Abroad
Academic and athletic development can go hand in hand. For many young tennis players, international academic and scholarship programs offer an opportunity to combine professional sports with studies at schools and universities abroad.
Challenges Young Tennis Players Face During Applications
In 2025, as part of our collaboration with Ukraine Global Scholars (UGS), we analyzed applicants to these programs and identified a shared challenge. Young tennis players demonstrate a strong level of performance and motivation, yet encounter difficulties during the application process, particularly during document preparation and selection. Academic tests, motivation essays in English, interviews with selection committees, and multi-stage application process require a clear understanding of structure and expectations.
A lack of experience, information, or language preparation can affect scholarship selection outcomes even for athletes with strong competitive results and sporting achievements.
What Is Prep School
Prep School is an educational initiative by the Marta Kostyuk Foundation designed for young tennis players. The project introduces participants to the key stages of applying to international academic and scholarship programs.
The educational program lasts eight weeks and is delivered online. It focuses on understanding the processes, requirements, and selection criteria athletes encounter during the application process.
What the Prep School Program Includes
Participants will gain practical skills and experience in:
- Education systems abroad: an overview of collegiate tennis, requirements for student-athletes, and how university admissions work.
- Test preparation: strategies and structure for the SAT (Math and Verbal) and the Duolingo English Test.
- Personal story and application essays: work on motivation letters and application texts, with a focus on presenting personal experience in a clear and structured way.
- Communication skills: preparation for interviews and developing self-presentation.
Who the Program Is For
Prep School is designed for students in grades 8–11 who plan to combine professional sport with education abroad and are ready to rise to the challenge both on and off the court.
What to Consider
Prep School helps young tennis players prepare for competitive scholarship programs, including Ukraine Global Scholars, with applications open until February 28. Participants will sign an agreement with the Foundation confirming a high level of engagement, commitment, and individual effort throughout the entire process.
Prep School is a pilot initiative and the first step in developing the Foundation’s educational projects for Ukrainian athletes.
How to Apply
To apply for Prep School, use the link. Program start date: January 24.
