❓ Frequently Asked Questions

SSS Academies accepts students in grades 9-12 (high school). Students must be at least 14 years old at the start of the school year.

SSS Academies opens in August 2026. The first day of classes for the 2026-2027 school year is August 10, 2026. New student orientation begins August 7, 2026.

We accept applications on a rolling basis. However, we recommend applying early as spots are limited. Priority deadline is March 1, 2026, with final deadline of June 1, 2026 for Fall 2026 enrollment.

Yes, there is a $1,500 non-refundable application fee. This fee holds your spot upon acceptance and is applied toward your first semester tuition.

Required documents include:

• Academic transcripts (last 2 years)
• Birth certificate or passport copy
• Immunization records
• Athletic highlight video
• Coach recommendation letter
• Student photo
• TOEFL/IELTS scores (international students)

Students will be evaluated during their first year at the academy. For initial admission, we review athletic highlight videos and coach recommendations. In-person evaluations may be scheduled for local applicants.

The total annual cost for boarding students is approximately $45,000-$46,000, which includes:

• Academic Tuition: $30,000
• Boarding (9 months, 3 meals/day): $15,000
• Equipment & Uniform: $400-$1,000 (varies by sport)

Additional fees may apply for international students ($3,600/year).

We offer two payment options:

• Full Payment: Pay the full annual amount before the school year begins
• Two-Payment Plan: 50% due before school starts, 50% due at semester break (January)

Scholarships are not currently available for the inaugural 2026-2027 school year. However, Arizona residents may qualify for the ESA (Empowerment Scholarship Account) voucher program, which provides approximately $7,600 in annual tuition assistance.

Tuition includes:

• Full academic curriculum through Online School of Arizona
• Alpha1 AI learning platform (free)
• Technology fees and lab fees
• Sport-specific training and coaching
• Access to all facilities
• Strength and conditioning programs

Books and personal supplies are not included.

No, the $1,500 application fee is non-refundable. This fee secures your spot upon acceptance and is applied toward your first semester tuition.

Students typically have 2-3 hours of academic instruction in the morning, followed by sport-specific training in the afternoon. This schedule allows student-athletes to focus on both academic excellence and athletic development.

Academics are delivered through the Online School of Arizona, an accredited online program. Students complete coursework using the Alpha1 AI platform, which provides personalized learning paths. Teachers and tutors are available for support, and students have dedicated study time in our AI-equipped classrooms.

Yes, students who complete all graduation requirements will receive an accredited high school diploma from the Online School of Arizona. This diploma is recognized by colleges and universities nationwide.

SSS Academies has partnerships with over 14 colleges and universities, with more being added. These partnerships provide pathways for student-athletes to continue their academic and athletic careers at the collegiate level. Our college counselors work with students to identify the best fit for their goals.

Yes, academic tutoring is available for all students. Our support staff includes subject-matter tutors who can provide additional help in challenging subjects. International students also have access to English language support.

SSS Academies offers six sports programs:

• Hockey (Boys & Girls)
• Volleyball (Boys & Girls)
• Basketball (Boys & Girls)
• Pickleball
• Boxing
• Figure Skating

Students select a primary sport for their training focus. However, cross-training opportunities may be available depending on scheduling and coach approval. Our multi-sport facility allows for diverse athletic development.

SSS Academies is proud to be Arizona's first NA3HL team, with NAHL coming soon. Our hockey players have pathways to junior hockey leagues (NA3HL, NAHL, USHL) and NCAA Division I, II, and III programs.

Equipment requirements vary by sport. For hockey, students must bring their own skates and stick; other equipment is provided through the equipment fee. For other sports, basic personal items may be required. Detailed equipment lists are provided upon enrollment.

Student-athletes typically train 3-4 hours per day in their primary sport, including on-ice/court time, strength and conditioning, and skill development sessions. Training schedules are designed to optimize performance while preventing burnout and injury.

Students live in private rooms with 2 or 4 students per room. Each room includes a private restroom. Boys and girls have separate housing areas with 24/7 supervision by residential staff.

Yes, three meals per day are included in the boarding fee. Our dining program focuses on nutrition for athletes, with balanced meals designed to fuel performance. Dietary accommodations (vegetarian, allergies, etc.) can be arranged.

Currently, SSS Academies is a boarding-only program. All students are required to live on campus during the school year. This ensures full immersion in our training and academic programs.

Curfew times are determined by coaches and vary based on training schedules, competition schedules, and academic demands. Residential staff enforce curfew policies to ensure students get adequate rest for optimal performance.

Students typically return home during major breaks (Thanksgiving, Winter Break, Spring Break, Summer). For international students or those who cannot travel home, arrangements can be made for supervised housing during breaks.

International students need an F-1 student visa. SSS Academies will issue the required I-20 form upon acceptance and payment of the enrollment deposit. Students then apply for their F-1 visa at the U.S. Embassy or Consulate in their home country.

We accept TOEFL iBT (minimum 70), IELTS (minimum 5.5), or Duolingo English Test (minimum 95). Students from English-speaking countries or those who have studied in English for 3+ years may request a waiver.

The international student fee is $3,600 per year. This covers I-20 processing, visa support, international student services, and administrative costs. This fee applies to first-year students and renewals.

Yes, we arrange airport pickup from Phoenix Sky Harbor International Airport for all international students. Details will be provided after enrollment confirmation.

Yes, all students are required to have health insurance. International students must obtain coverage that meets U.S. requirements. Our admissions team can provide guidance on obtaining appropriate coverage.