What is the defining criterion for an official visit to begin?

The defining criterion for an official visit to begin is the arrival at campus without delays. An official visit is characterized by the prospective student-athlete being present on campus and engaging in activities that are arranged by the institution. This means the visit officially commences once the athlete arrives at the campus, as this allows for the institution to showcase their facilities, meet with coaches and current players, and participate in scheduled activities. Ensuring that there are no delays is also significant because any interruptions can affect the agenda planned for the visit, potentially leading to a less informative or beneficial experience for the prospective student-athlete.

Scheduling multiple visits does not define the beginning but rather indicates that the athlete might be considering multiple schools. Similarly, contact with the athletics department, while important for arranging the visit, does not mark the official commencement of that visit itself. The key factor is the arrival on campus, making it the clear criterion for an official visit to officially begin.