The Decision Process

Miley used the NCSA college comparison chart to weigh the pros and cons of each program and how it fit with her goals. The chart helped her compare cost and scholarships, academic standards and track interactions with college coaches. 

Download the NCAA Comparison Chart here.

The Choice

Miley chose UT Tyler, a Division 2 volleyball program in the Lone Star Conference. Her next step? To call her future coach. 

When she told UT Tyler coach Lyndsay Mashe that she was committing, Mashe was enthusiastic. “We are pumped,” she said. “That’s so exciting. I’m glad that you chose us and I’m super excited […] just to see how you grow.” 

For Miley, her commitment ended a story that included going through official visits, speaking with college coaches and even moving past rejection from one top choice. 

Watch the video below to see Miley call her future college coach to give her the good news: 

Wondering What Division Is Right For You?

There are many opportunities to play your sport in college, but as Miley did, you have to find the right place for you. She worked with her recruiting coach, Heather Evans, to find the right place for her and gain guidance reaching out to coaches, updating her NCSA profile and using the NCSA search tool to find schools that fit her academically and athletically. 

1. Read more about the differences between division levels 

2. Learn how to negotiate offers. 

3. Check out a free workshop to learn more. 

4. Speak with an NCSA recruiting expert and get a free recruiting assessment.

See more of Miley’s story:

• Episode One 
• Episode Two 
• Episode Three 
• Episode Four 

Start your own journey today with a free profile. 

Want to contact NCSA?

Speak to a recruiting expert by calling us at (866) 495-5172 or by emailing recruitingline@ncsasports.org. 

The post Decision Time: Miley Myers Commits to UT Tyler appeared first on NCSA College Recruiting.

What is NCAA Delayed Enrollment?

NCAA delayed enrollment happens when a student waits more than a year after high school to start college. The NCAA gives students one year to enroll (some sports allow even less time).  

Waiting too long can cost athletes a year of eligibility and require them to sit out their first season. If you compete in organized events after your sport’s grace period, you can be charged a season of competition and may have to serve an academic year in residence when you get to campus. 

The exact outcome depends on your division and sport, and the NCAA Eligibility Center reviews these cases depending on the Division you compete in. 

Start with a plan: If you’re rehabbing or cross-training during a gap, you still control your recruiting momentum. Start with a plan and communicate with the coaches. For ideas, see NCSA’s guides on overcoming an injury during recruiting and recruiting myths. 

Grace Period and Timing

After finishing high school, student-athletes get a short window of time they can use to compete. All competitions you participate in within this window will not trigger delayed-enrollment penalties.  

But once the window ends, any organized competition you play before you enroll full-time is reviewed under the NCAA’s delayed-enrollment rules.  

For Division I and II, this review runs through the NCAA Eligibility Center, while Division III handles everything on campus.  

If you compete after your grace period and before you enroll full-time, you risk: 

• A season of competition being charged for that 12-month period; and

• An academic year in residence (AYR), during which you may practice and receive aid but cannot compete. 

What Counts as Organized Competition?

According to the NCAA, student-athletes are in organized competition when any one of the following is present: a published schedule, officials, results or standings, ticketed entry, set rosters or uniforms, or league/club administration.  

Training with a team is not the same as competing. 

When in doubt, treat it as organized competition, document it, and disclose it during the amateurism certification process. There are also rules that student-athletes should know about signing with a professional team, agents, individual payments and declaring for a draft that affect eligibility.  

What is the NCAA Delayed Enrollment Rule?

Let’s picture this on a timeline. If your class graduates on June 1 and you start college in late August, any fall events that take place after your sport’s grace period can be reviewed and may be charged as a season. 

The penalty for delaying enrollment and competing past the grace period is that an athlete may not compete their first year enrolled in college and the athlete loses one year of eligibility for every year he or she competed after the grace period. Here is an example: 

Jane plays soccer in England. Jane graduates from high school in May 2026. Jane continues to play in organized competition in England and does not enroll in college. 

• If Jane plays in a game between May 2026 and August 2027: no penalty. 

• If Jane plays in one or more games between August 2027 and August 2028: risk sitting out one year, lose one season of eligibility. 

• If Jane also plays in one or more games between August 2028 and August 2029: risk sitting out one year, lose two seasons of eligibility. 

• If Jane also plays in one or more games between August 2029 and August 2030: risk sitting out one year, lose three seasons of eligibility. 

• If Jane also plays in one or more games between August 2030 and August 2031: risk losing all seasons of eligibility. 

Build your plan with our guide on NCAA Eligibility Requirements, then cross-check details in the NCAA’s Delayed Enrollment handout. 

How the Rule Differs by Division

No matter the division, competing after your grace window and before you enroll can affect eligibility. The fine print lives in each division’s bylaws, so familiarize yourself with the rules below and always check with your college’s compliance office. 

Division I (d1)

Most sports follow a grace window, yet a few use different timelines. If you play official events after the window and before enrolling full-time, you risk a season charged and, in some cases, a year in residence. The five-year clock starts at full-time enrollment. Be sure to confirm details with your school. 

Division II (D2)

DII is a similar concept but applies its own bylaws. If you delay full-time enrollment beyond your grace period and compete in organized events, you can be charged one season for each 12-month period of participation, and AYR may apply. Keep in mind, DII uses a 10-semester/15-quarter window to complete seasons. Be sure to verify the rule with your future program. 

Division III (D3) 

DIII handles initial eligibility on campus. Competing after your window can still carry consequences, so make sure to confirm your dates and the applicable bylaw with your school. 

NAIA / NJCAA

These are separate associations with their own manuals and timelines. So don’t assume NCAA rules apply. Check the NAIA Handbook and the NJCAA Handbook, or ask the compliance office at your future program for more details. 

For the current Division I waiver guidance affecting 2025–26 eligibility, review the NCAA’s Waiver Eligibility Q&A. 

How to Protect Your Eligibility During a Gap Year

• Set your anchor dates. Note your class graduation date and your first day of full-time enrollment. All analysis runs between those two points. 

• Log each event. Keep a dated log of post-grad competitions and save links or emails that verify results or entry lists. 

• Check for “organized” markers. Schedule, officials, posted results or standings, admission, set rosters or uniforms, or league/club oversight all signal organized competition. 

• Finish your Eligibility Center tasks (D1/D2). Create or update your NCAA Eligibility Center account and complete amateurism questions. 

• Confirm in writing. Email your future school’s compliance office with your dates and planned events and ask for the bylaw citation that applies to your sport. 

• Keep an organized folder. Include your graduation date, planned enrollment date, event log, brackets/schedules/rosters, posted scores or organizer emails, acceptance/enrollment confirmations, and one-sentence context notes for unusual situations. 

FAQS About Delayed Enrollment

Delayed Enrollment Doesn’t Have to Cost You a Season

Share your dates with coaches, confirm the rule with compliance, and keep proof of what you played, so certification goes quickly when you enroll. 

Sorting out a gap year? Get a free recruiting assessment and map your timeline with an NCSA coach.

The post What is NCAA Delayed Enrollment? Rules, Grace Periods, and How to Stay Eligible appeared first on NCSA College Recruiting.

Before you make the call to reclass, it’s important to understand what reclassifying actually involves, how it could impact your future, and whether it truly makes sense for your goals, both on the field and in the classroom. 

What Does Reclassifying Mean in High School?

Reclassifying is when a student-athlete changes their expected high school graduation year, most often by repeating a grade, like eighth . The goal is to delay graduation and create more time for both athletic and academic development. Student-athletes can also consider taking a post-grad year for the same reasons.

Why Student-Athletes Consider Reclassifying 

While some students reclassify to graduate early, it’s far more common for athletes to reclassify down to give themselves an extra year to grow, train, and get noticed by college coaches.  

For younger athletes, especially, it can also be about maturity, giving them a chance to gain confidence before stepping into a more competitive environment. 

Reclassification is most common in sports where size, strength, and exposure make a noticeable difference in recruiting, such as football, basketball, and hockey. However, athletes across all sports are now exploring this option. 

It’s important to note that reclassification happens before college. It’s not the same thing as a redshirt year in college, which comes after enrollment and involves sitting out a season while maintaining academic progress and eligibility.  

How Reclassifying Can Affect the College Recruiting Process 

Reclassifying can change the course of a student-athlete’s entire recruiting process. That additional year can mean more training, more playing time, and more opportunities to compete at high-level showcases or events where college coaches are watching. 

At the same time, it means you’ll now be part of a different recruiting class than the one you started with. This can be a double-edged sword.  

On one hand, it might increase your visibility if you’re more physically developed than your new peers.  

On the other hand, it may require you to rebuild momentum with any coaches who were previously tracking you in your original class. Some of those coaches may have already filled roster spots or shifted their recruiting focus. 

How Reclassing Impacts NCAA Eligibility

Regarding eligibility, what matters most is when you officially start ninth grade on a full-time basis. According to NCAA rules, that’s the moment your NCAA eligibility clock starts.  

From there, you have four consecutive academic years, or eight semesters, to complete 16 core courses and meet the academic standards required to compete at the Division I or II level. That timeline doesn’t reset if you reclassify.   

Understanding the Rules: NCAA, NAIA, and NJCAA

Each collegiate athletic association has its own eligibility standards that reclassified athletes must follow. Understanding these rules is crucial before making any decisions about reclassifying in high school. 

NCAA Rules on Reclassifying in High School

For NCAA Division I and II schools, eligibility is tightly linked to the start of ninth grade. From that moment, student-athletes must complete their core coursework within the eight-semester limit and meet GPA and standardized test score minimums.  

Delaying graduation does not automatically grant you extra time unless very specific circumstances apply.  

Amateurism is another important component. Student-athletes must not compete in events or with teams that would jeopardize their amateur status. Click here for an overview of what qualifies as amateur participation. 

NAIA Reclass Rules

The NAIA offers more flexibility. Eligibility is based on the student’s high school graduation date and whether they have used any of their seasons of competition. As long as a student-athlete maintains amateur status and meets academic requirements, reclassifying does not typically create eligibility problems. 

NJCAA Reclassing Rules

The NJCAA, which includes most junior colleges, also allows reclassified athletes to compete as long as they meet academic and amateurism standards. However, it’s still important to consult with your specific school and program to ensure you are eligible. 

How to Reclass: A Step-by-Step Process

Reclassifying as a student-athlete takes early planning, careful coordination, and a strong understanding of both academic and athletic requirements. Here’s how to do it right: 

1. Start the conversation early
   Start by talking it through with your coaches, your family, and your school. These talks should happen early, ideally before you start ninth grade, since that’s when your NCAA eligibility clock begins. The earlier you start planning, the more options you’ll have. 

2. Understand the school policies on reclassifying
   Not all schools allow reclassification, and many public school districts have clear rules against repeating a grade for athletic purposes. On the other hand, private and prep schools offer more flexibility and are often familiar with how reclassification works for student-athletes.  

3. Create a compliant academic plan
   Once you’ve confirmed that reclassification is possible, take time to fully map out your academic plan. It’s important that your core courses align with NCAA eligibility requirements. The NCAA will evaluate your transcript based on when you started ninth grade, so you must plan carefully to complete all required coursework within the allowed timeframe. 

4. Keep college coaches informed
   Finally, make sure you keep college coaches in the loop. Let coaches know about your decision to reclassify, why you’re doing it, and how it fits into your long-term goals. Be transparent about your new timeline and update your NCSA recruiting profile to reflect your revised graduation year.  

Is Reclassing Right for You? Key Considerations

Reclassifying can be a smart move for some athletes, but it’s not a decision to take lightly. In the right situation, it can give you more time to grow, improve in the classroom, and get noticed by college coaches. That extra year might help you develop physically, build confidence, or gain valuable experience, but it also comes with trade-offs. 

Reclassifying can delay your graduation, increase the cost of schooling (especially at private or prep schools), and limit your eligibility if not managed carefully under NCAA rules. 

You may also face social challenges from repeating a grade or graduating later than your peers, which can impact motivation or team dynamics.  

And in some cases, reclassifying may not offer the competitive edge families hope for if it’s not paired with genuine athletic or academic improvement. 

Before making any moves, take a step back and look at the big picture. Talk it over with your family. Get input from your coaches and academic advisors. Ask yourself whether this decision lines up with where you want to go, not just as an athlete, but as a student and as a person. 

If you decide to move forward, or if you’re still weighing your options, know that you don’t have to figure it all out on your own.

Start with a free recruiting assessment from an NCSA recruiting expert. 

FAQS ABout Reclassifying

The post What Student-Athletes should Know About Reclassifying appeared first on NCSA College Recruiting.

In this post, we’ll explain what happens when a college cuts a sport, why these decisions are made, how they affect athletes and scholarships, and what your next steps should be as a student-athlete looking to get recruited.  

Why Do Colleges Cut Sports Programs and What Colleges Are Cutting sports Programs?

Colleges eliminate sports programs for a variety of reasons, most often driven by budget pressures, compliance regulations, or changing institutional priorities. The reason for cutting programs vary across institutions.  For example, Saint Frances (PA) announced in March 2025 that it was transitioning to DIII from DI, citing “transfer portal, pay-for-play, and other shifts that move athletics away from love of the game.“ 

Other schools, like San Francisco State University at the Division II level cut baseball and men’s soccer in 2025, along with women’s indoor track and field, citing budgetary concerns. Sonoma State eliminated its sports program in an attempt to close its large budget deficit. And in some cases, colleges and universities are closing their doors – according to Deloitte, more than 40 colleges have closed in the United States since 2020. 

While it may come as a surprise to many student-athletes, these decisions are usually the result of long-term financial strain or shifting strategies within the athletic department.  

Understanding the factors behind these cuts can help athletes prepare for the possibility and protect their future. 

Learn more how you can help save roster spots and the benefits increased roster spots can have for a college or university here.

Revenue Sharing and Shifting Landscape of College Sports 

A newer concern on the horizon is the impact that revenue sharing could have on college athletics. As discussions grow around compensating student-athletes, especially in major sports like football and basketball, smaller programs may find themselves at risk. 

While revenue sharing is still evolving, it’s already prompting athletic departments to reevaluate how many sports they can realistically support.  

Financial Pressures and Budget Cuts 

College athletics are expensive to operate, and not all sports bring in revenue. While sports like football and men’s basketball can generate millions through ticket sales, media rights, and sponsorships.

When schools face declining enrollment, reduced endowment returns, or broader budget shortfalls, athletics departments are often asked to make cuts, and non-revenue sports are usually the first to go. 

For example, during the COVID-19 pandemic, over 100 college sports programs were eliminated in 2020 alone due to financial strain. 

Low Participation or Campus Engagement 

Another reason colleges cut sports is declining interest or participation. If a team struggles to fill its roster year after year, or if recruiting efforts fall flat, schools may determine that it’s no longer worth the investment to maintain the program.  

Similarly, if a sport draws little attention from students, alumni, or the local community, it may be seen as expendable compared to more popular offerings. 

Facilities and Resource Constraints 

Maintaining fields, equipment, coaching staff, and travel budgets takes significant resources. If facilities are outdated or require costly upgrades, and the sport doesn’t justify the expense, schools may opt to cut it rather than reinvest.  

This is especially common at smaller colleges and universities with limited fundraising power or athletic endowments. 

Athletic Department Strategy Shifts 

Sometimes, sport cuts reflect a broader strategy change.  

A new athletic director may choose to consolidate resources into fewer, more competitive teams.  

Schools may also realign their athletic identity around certain sports that align with their brand or marketability.  

These decisions are less about compliance or budget, and more about long-term positioning. 

For instance, in 2020, Stanford University cut 11 varsity teams, including fencing, rowing, and wrestling, despite having one of the most successful athletic programs in the country. The university cited financial sustainability and the need to focus resources on fewer programs as key factors. 

What Happens to Student-Athletes When a Sport Is Cut? 

Having your sport cut can leave you reeling emotionally, academically, and athletically. Here’s what to expect:

Loss of Identity and Support 

For many athletes, their sport is a cornerstone of their college experience. Losing that can feel like losing your place on campus. 

Questions Around Scholarships and Eligibility 

Depending on your athletic division and the timing of the cut, your scholarship may still be honored, or you might need to transfer to continue playing. 

What Happens to Current Student-Athletes’ Scholarships If Their Sport Is Cut? 

NCAA rules vary, but generally: 

• Division I: If your team is eliminated, you can retain your scholarship until graduation, as long as you remain enrolled. 

• Division II & III: Rules are similar, but merit-based or partial scholarships may be more flexible depending on institutional policy. 

• NAIA & JUCO: Policies vary by school and athletic conference. 

It’s essential to connect with your compliance office to confirm your individual circumstances. 

Can I Transfer to Another Program? 

Yes, and many athletes do. The NCAA Transfer Portal makes it easier to notify other schools of your interest. 

Steps to take: 

1. Speak with your coach and compliance officer. 

2. Enter your name in the NCAA Transfer Portal (if applicable). 

3. Start reaching out to coaches at other institutions. 

Remember: you’re still a valuable recruit with collegiate playing experience. 

Learn more about the transfer portal. 

How a College Sport Cut Impacts Future Recruits and What to Do Next 

If you’re a high school athlete hoping to join a college team that gets cut, the loss changes your recruiting landscape significantly. If you are impacted, here are some things you can do next:  

• Update your target school list. Remove schools that have eliminated your sport. 

• Check program stability. Research athletic department announcements and budget decisions. 

• Explore more schools. Be open to NAIA, junior college, or less traditional recruiting options. 

• Take action. Urge college leaders to expand opportunities for student-athletes: contact decision-makers, spread the word on social media using #AddMoreAthletes, and make an impact. 

How NCSA Can Help You Move Forward 

Navigating college recruiting is tough, and it’s even tougher when schools start cutting sports. That’s where NCSA’s recruiting experts come in. 

Here’s how we help student-athletes: 

• Rebuild your college list with stable programs actively recruiting your sport 

• Promote your profile to coaches looking for experienced transfers or open recruits 

• Advocate for you when you reach out to programs needing athletes fast 

Get started today with a free profile.

FAQs

You Still Have a Path Forward 

Losing a college sport is heartbreaking, but it’s not the end of your journey. 

Whether you’re a current athlete or a recruit, there are real options for continuing your athletic career. By understanding your rights, exploring transfer or new recruiting options, and leaning on trusted resources like NCSA, you can stay on track. 

Take the Next Step with NCSA. If your sport has been cut, or you’re worried it might be, don’t wait. Talk with an NCSA recruiting expert today to get a personalized strategy and make sure you’re exploring every opportunity. Start now with a free profile. 

The post What Happens When a College Cuts a Sport and How Student-Athletes Can Stay on Track with Recruiting appeared first on NCSA College Recruiting.

Here’s everything we know so far about redshirt eligibility and what recruits and families should watch as the case progresses.   

What is the Vanderbilt Lawsuit About?

It’s important to understand how revenue sharing differs from outside Name, Image, and Likeness (At the center of the lawsuit are two Vanderbilt seniors, Langston Patterson and Issa Ouattara, along with Hawaii quarterback Brayden Schager. These students are in their fourth seasons. Under current NCAA redshirt limits, this would typically be their last year of eligibility unless they appear in no more than four games, take a redshirt, and play in 2026.  

In a statement to ESPN, an NCAA spokesperson said: 

“The NCAA stands by its eligibility rules, including the five-year rule, which enable student-athletes to access the life-changing opportunity to be a student-athlete.” 

However, the plaintiffs remain dissatisfied with the current cap and argue that it unnecessarily restricts development and opportunity. The suit argues that the active rule will “arbitrarily cut short college athletes’ ability to compete”. 

This is an antitrust challenge to redshirt limits and wouldn’t erase the five-year clock. However, it asks the court to change how a season is counted.  

Further reading: For why “five to play four” still guides decisions today and why single cases rarely change the rulebook, see What Nyzier Fourqurean’s Case Means for the Five-Year Rule. 

How Eligibility Works Today and Where Redshirting Fits

• Division I athletes typically have a five-year eligibility window to use up to four seasons of competition.  
• If an athlete appears in games, that participation may count as a season.  
• Redshirting allows an athlete to keep that season for development, depth-chart timing, or recovery. 

Who Qualifies for Revenue Sharing?

Revenue sharing will begin in Division I athletics in 2025-26, with a primary focus on Power Five conferences (SEC, Big Ten, ACC, Big 12, and Pac-12). These schools generate the most media and sponsorship revenue, giving them the financial flexibility to participate.  

However, participation isn’t automatic – each athletic department will decide whether and how to share revenue. Some schools may spread payments across all scholarship athletes, while others may concentrate funds in higher-revenue sports like football and basketball. 

Eligibility will vary by school, sport, and team, which means athletes and recruits should ask programs directly how they plan to handle revenue sharing.  

Why this matters now

Many athletes and families are wondering what constitutes a season right now. The gray areas usually involve JUCO eligibility, injuries, or a few late-season cameos. Until anything changes, go by the standard rules that exist today. 

What Could Change If the Plaintiffs Win?

A win for the plaintiffs wouldn’t erase the five-year clock, but it could change how seasons are counted inside it. In practice, that could mean five playable seasons and fewer one-play burns. Practical impacts could include: 

• Cleaner injury decisions without sacrificing a year. 
• Clearer answers for JUCO athletes before they move. 
• Earlier, more accurate depth-chart planning for coaches and recruits. 

What Families Should Do Now (Even If Nothing Changes)

• Start a one-page tracker: Write down when your five-year clock began, jot a quick note after each game you appear in, and flag any redshirt decisions or injuries.  
• Flag key moments: Redshirt decisions, medical evaluations, mid-year enrollments. 
• Reconcile once per term: Compare your tracker to the school’s official record to keep your redshirt eligibility status crystal-clear. 

What Happens Next 

Next up are filings and court hearings. Appeals may follow. No policy change takes effect unless a court order or NCAA action explicitly states otherwise. 

While you wait for updates, strengthen your recruiting footprint. Start a free NCSA profile so coaches can evaluate your academics, film, measurables in one place. 

FAQs

NCSA will continue to track the ongoing court case and post up-to-date NCAA news on our blog. Check back here for further developments. 

The post NCAA Redshirt Rules Under Fire: Inside the 2025 Class-Action Lawsuit and Recruiting Impact appeared first on NCSA College Recruiting.

But, like so many student-athletes experience in the process, the coach at that school had some bad news: They decided to go a different direction.  

“I know there’s going to be somewhere better for me, but right now it just really hurts,” Myers said.  

Myers, who is documenting her volleyball recruiting process using NCSA, turned to her NCSA recruiting coach Heather Evans, who immediately offered some encouraging words. 

“I know that hurts. I know that stings. Just want you to know you’re right where you need to be,” Evans told her. “Every time there’s a no in this process, it’s just going to get us closer and closer to that one yes.” 

Myers kept searching and continued on to visit another school that checks all of her boxes for academics, culture, athletics, and location.  

“When one door closes,” she advises, “just keep searching because another door might open that’s even better.” 

View the latest episode below and see episode one here and two here. 

Work with a recruiting coach to stay on track

When the recruiting process got difficult, Miley found it helpful to have a recruiting expert to walk her through her next steps. Here’s how you can access one-on-one coaching from an NCSA expert: 

1. Start a free NCSA profile to gain exposure to coaches 

2. Learn more about our types of memberships. 

3. Get started with a free recruiting assessment to see how NCSA can help your recruiting journey. 
4. Don’t have an NCSA recruiting profile yet? Click here to get started! 

More Valuable Resources

• Join a free recruiting workshop to learn how to get recruited and more.  
• NCSA memberships come with a free year of IMG Academy+ Essentials. Learn More.
• Click here to access mental performance, nutrition, and NIL courses on your schedule.  

The post When One Door Closes: Miley Myers Volleyball Recruiting Wins, Setbacks & Moving Forward appeared first on NCSA College Recruiting.

She learned quickly that taking a visit when student-athletes aren’t on campus can give you a good sense of the coaching staff but isn’t as helpful to learn what it’s like to be a student-athlete at that school. 

“I highly recommend going when school is in session because you get the feel of what it is like to be a college athlete,” she says.  

On her third visit she got to have dinner with the team, see them play and even be in the locker room for the postgame talk. 

Another tip? “To prepare for college visits you need to have a list of questions written down. It’s going to be really awkward if you don’t have anything prepared to say,” she said.  

Miley filmed her college recruiting process with NCSA to give a behind-the-scenes look at how she used NCSA to help her feel confident throughout the process. 

View the latest episode below and see episode one here and two here. 

Ready to get started in the recruiting Process?

Miley simplified her recruiting process using NCSA tools like College Match, Messaging Center and When Miley started high school, she thought she’d just get recruited to play college sports by being good at her sport. But she quickly learned she needed help – and NCSA helped her feel confident when speaking to college coaches. Here’s how you can follow in her footsteps: 

1. Learn more about official visits and unofficial visits.  

2. Start a free NCSA profile to gain exposure to coaches 

3. Get started with a free recruiting assessment to see how NCSA can help your recruiting journey. 
4. Don’t have an NCSA recruiting profile yet? Click here to get started! 

More Valuable Resources

• Join a free recruiting workshop to learn how to get recruited and more.  
• NCSA memberships come with a free year of IMG Academy+ Essentials. Learn More.
• Click here to access mental performance, nutrition, and NIL courses on your schedule.  

The post Volleyball Recruit, Miley Myers, Shares Advice For Taking Official Visits appeared first on NCSA College Recruiting.

This change is the result of years of legal pressure and lawsuits, most notably the House v. NCAA case, which challenged the NCAA’s long-standing amateurism rules. Faced with growing criticism and the rise of NIL rights in 2021, the NCAA agreed to a landmark settlement in 2025 that introduced a formal revenue sharing model. 

The policy represents a historic shift in college sports, bringing athlete compensation closer to the professional model while still operating within the college system. It also leaves a number of questions that will likely be debated and decided in coming years.  

Key Differences From NIL

It’s important to understand how revenue sharing differs from outside Name, Image, and Likeness (NIL) opportunities: 

• Revenue sharing is income paid directly by universities out of their athletic department budgets.  

• NIL deals are earnings from third-party companies, such as sponsorships, endorsements, booster collectives or paid social media campaigns.  

• Athletes can benefit from both systems at the same time, combining school-based revenue with personal NIL income.  

In short, NIL gives athletes the freedom to earn like influencers and entrepreneurs, while revenue sharing guarantees a direct financial stake in the revenue their sport generates.

Click here to learn more about NIL opportunities. 

What NCAA Revenue Sharing Means for You in 2025 and Beyond

There was a time when college athletes could only earn scholarships while schools and athletic conferences garnered billions in media deals, sponsorships, scholarships and ticket sales. That changed in 2025, when the NCAA revenue sharing model went into effect as part of a landmark court settlement.  

The move is a groundbreaking shift in college sports. For the first time, some student-athletes will benefit from athletic department revenues, allowing for direct payments from universities.  

Understanding how NCAA revenue-sharing works can help you: 

• Navigate scholarship opportunities and future earnings 

• Understand what questions to ask college coaches 

• Be prepared for the changing landscape of NCAA sports 

Join a live workshop to learn even more about changes coming to the NCAA

Who Qualifies for Revenue Sharing?

Revenue sharing will begin in Division I athletics in 2025-26, with a primary focus on Power Five conferences (SEC, Big Ten, ACC, Big 12, and Pac-12). These schools generate the most media and sponsorship revenue, giving them the financial flexibility to participate.  

However, participation isn’t automatic – each athletic department will decide whether and how to share revenue. Some schools may spread payments across all scholarship athletes, while others may concentrate funds in higher-revenue sports like football and basketball. 

Eligibility will vary by school, sport, and team, which means athletes and recruits should ask programs directly how they plan to handle revenue sharing.  

What Factors Influence Payment Amounts?

Schools can share 22% of average revenue among schools in the Power 5 conferences in the 2025-26 school year, with a cap of $20.5 million per school. The number is expected to increase each year. 

However, the actual amount distributed to each athlete will vary widely: 

• High-revenue sports like football and men’s basketball are expected to see the largest payouts.  

• Olympic and non-revenue sports may still receive benefits, but on a smaller scale which could range from nothing to a few thousand dollars, depending on how athletic departments allocate their resources to different sports.  

• Top athletes who play key roles in nationally televised games may receive more significant shares than role players.  

While estimates differ by program, the expectation is that, for the first time, many student-athletes could receive a more predictable stream of direct income from their schools, in addition to scholarships or third-party NIL deals. 

Bonuses, Incentives, and Scholarship Integration

Revenue sharing isn’t limited to a flat payout. Schools may integrate additional factors into their distribution models, including: 

• Performance-based incentive: Athlete could see larger payouts based on playing time, team, success, or postseason achievement.  

• Academic requirements: To remain eligible for revenue sharing, athletes will likely need to maintain good academic standing, similar to existing scholarship rules. 

• Scholarship integration: Revenue sharing could help bridge the gap for athletes receiving partial aid. 

This structure means that revenue sharing won’t replace scholarships.  

How Will Revenue Sharing Affect College Recruiting?

Revenue sharing is set to change the recruiting landscape in ways that go far beyond traditional scholarship offers. For athletes, the decision about where to play won’t just come down to facilities, coaching staff, or conference prestige — financial incentives will now play a larger role.  

• Bigger financial packages: In addition to scholarships, schools can now highlight projected revenue-sharing payouts as part of their recruiting pitch. 

• Institutional pay vs. collectives: Previously, much of the financial support outside of scholarships came through NIL collectives. Now, direct school payments create a more transparent, stable option for athletes weighing their choices. 

• Competitive imbalance: Wealthier athletic departments with larger media contracts may be able to offer more substantial revenue-sharing packages, widening the gap between Power 5 schools and smaller Division I programs.  

For recruits, this means evaluating the total financial package — scholarships, NIL opportunities, and revenue sharing — when comparing schools.  

Legal and Financial Considerations for Athletes

With revenue sharing comes new responsibilities. For the first time, many college athletes will need to treat part of their earnings like traditional income. 

• Tax obligations: Revenue-sharing payments will be taxable, meaning athletes must report them and may need to set aside money for state and federal taxes. 

• Contracts and paperwork: While schools will handle most of the distribution, athletes may need to sign agreements outlining payment terms and eligibility.  

• Compliance oversight: University compliance officers will play a key role in ensuring athletes meet eligibility standards while receiving payments. This helps avoid conflicts with NCAA rules, scholarship requirements, or other regulations.  

• Role of advisors: While not required, some athletes may choose to work with professional advisors or accountants for financial planning — especially those in high-revenue sports with larger payouts. It’s important to understand how to hire the right advisors and ensure you’re compliant with NCAA regulations around who you can and cannot hire.  

How To Balance Athletics, Academics, and Earnings

Earning direct revenue is exciting, but it also adds new layers of responsibility for student-athletes. Balancing academics, athletics, and financial obligations will be essential to long-term success.  

• Stay focused on priorities: Revenue should supplement, not distract, from athletic performance and academic progress. 

• Mental Health & Stress Management: Balancing new financial responsibilities with academics and athletics can be overwhelming. Universities may offer counseling, sports psychology, or wellness programs to help athletes manage stress and avoid burnout. 

• Time management: Athletes may need to plan their schedules carefully to handle both their sport and any additional financial responsibilities.  

• Financial tools: Budgeting apps, financial literacy workshops, and university-provided resources can help athletes manage their income responsibly.  

• Academic standing: Just like scholarships, revenue-sharing eligibility may depend on maintaining good grades and staying on track academically.  

• Team dynamic: Revenue-sharing payouts may differ by sport or even within the same team. Athletes should be mindful of how money conversations could affect team culture and relationships. 

Revenue sharing creates new opportunities, but athletes must approach it with discipline and organization to ensure it helps their college experience. 

Prepare Now for the Future of College Sports

The start of the NCAA revenue sharing in 2025 marks a new era for college athletics. For the first time, student-athletes will be compensated directly by their schools, creating opportunities that go beyond scholarships and NIL deals.  

This shift will reshape recruiting, with financial packages playing a bigger role in athletes’ decisions. Families and recruits who understand how revenue sharing works, and how it differs from scholarships and NIL, will be better positioned to make informed decisions.  

Questions to Ask Coaches About Revenue Sharing

The key to success will be prep, guidance, and awareness. Athletes who ask the right questions, evaluate the full value of each opportunity, and plan for both the athletic and financial aspects of college will have a clear advantage in this new landscape. Watch the video below for some key questions to ask college coaches after you’ve built a relationship with them:

NCSA Can Help Navigate NCAA Changes

Want to understand how NCAA revenue sharing affects your recruiting journey?  
Connect with an NCSA Recruiting Expert today and get customized guidance on navigating this new chapter in college athletics. 

FAQs About NCAA Revenue Sharing

The post What Is NCAA Revenue Sharing? appeared first on NCSA College Recruiting.

• Identify colleges that offer the right fit, academically 
• Identify colleges that offer the right fit, athletically 
• Identify colleges that offer the right fit, financially 
• Identify colleges that offer the right fit, socially 

If you want to know how to find the best college, identifying colleges which offer the right fit will surely increase your chances of having a successful college career.

In this article, we cover each fit in more depth and offer some tips for what to look for, and how to start your college search.   

Finding the right college (what to look for) 

Academic fit

• Athletic scholarships don’t guarantee school acceptance; academic qualifications matter.
• Consider your desired major and academic commitment alongside sports.
• Seek advice on managing course loads from coaches and potential teammates.

Athletic fit

• Focus on the right division level for you, as less than 2% reach D1.
• Aim for schools where you contribute significantly, like D2, D3, NAIA, or junior colleges, all with great opportunities and scholarships.
• Understand division differences to find your fit.

Financial fit

• Assess affordability and potential aid at each school, considering athletic scholarships and other aid types.
• Investigate aid options at every school you consider.
• Explore tips on finding the right financial fit for your family. 

Social fit

• Choose a comfortable school as it’s your home for four years.
• Evaluate campus environment, location, size, dorms, and social atmosphere during visits.
• Seek feedback from current students.
• Consider distance from home and weather/climate.
• Maintain a checklist of personal preferences.
• Get advice from NCSA recruiting experts on choosing a socially fitting school. 

NCSA Power Rankings consider factors like student desirability, academic performance, affordability, and more.

View our list of best colleges for student athletes.

College search tips 

Student athletes typically have a couple dream schools in mind when they begin their recruiting journey. But the chances of coaches at those schools recruiting their position and offering a scholarship might be slim.

That is why we tell every student athlete to keep their options open, research several programs and build a school list to maximize opportunities and find their best college fit. 

Starting early in high school, student athletes should begin to build a list of potential colleges.

This list should include five safety schools, ten target schools and five dream schools. 

• Target schools: These are the schools where you have the most realistic chance of getting in and will be the right fit not only athletically, but academically, financially and socially. 
• Dream schools: Maybe these schools are a stretch academically, where you will need to improve significantly to qualify athletically or maybe too expensive without significant financial aid. You should have these dream schools on your list but recognize they might be a stretch. 
• Safety schools: These are the schools you have on your list as your back-up plan. Keep your options open and consider schools that you otherwise might not have before starting your research. While these schools may not be your first choice, they’re still a good fit. 

NCSA’s college search tools 

One of the most difficult aspects of finding the right college is simply knowing where to look. There are thousands of viable schools in the country across the Division 1, Division 2, Division 3, NAIA, and junior college levels where student athletes can potentially find a great fit for their college experience.

That’s why NCSA provides student athletes and families with powerful college search tools that simplify this complicated process.  

Over 82% of college programs have had an NCSA athlete on their roster and the impressive range of our athlete placement is partly due to our college search feature. College Search allows users to easily filter through thousands of schools based on specific athletic, academic and college fit criteria.

Additionally, NCSA College Match equips users with the most sophisticated college-matching algorithm in the industry, able to suggest colleges that offer athletic scholarships while also focusing colleges to match preferences, skill level, academics and recruiting evaluation results.

Users can dig even deeper into their search results with Match Analysis, which provides a visual snapshot of how they fit athletically and academically at a specific college. 

What are you waiting for? Get started for free!

The post How to Choose a College That’s Right For You appeared first on NCSA College Recruiting.

She knew that today was a big day: college coaches could begin calling her to express their interest in her playing for their program.

Miley had been doing everything she could to get their attention: She emailed coaches using NCSA’s messaging center, sent highlight videos and updated her academic and athletic stats on her NCSA profile.

Her recruiting coach, Heather Evans, had advised her on what schools could be a good fit. But she wasn’t sure who would be calling. 

Miley let us film her college recruiting process to help student-athletes understand what the recruiting process is like, and what to expect.

In this second episode, we follow Miley through this crucial day in coach communication:

You can watch the first installment here and check back for what happens next. We’ll release new videos periodically throughout this year as she searches for the right college. 

Ready to Start Your Journey? 

Miley knew that June 15 was a big day for coach contact, but she’d been working for years before-hand to make sure she was in a good spot. You can follow in her footsteps by making sure you: 

1. Start a free NCSA profile to gain exposure to coaches.

2. Get a free recruiting assessment to see how NCSA can help your recruiting journey. 

3. Use the NCSA Messaging Center to introduce yourself to coaches and send updated highlight reels, stats and more.

Don’t have an NCSA recruiting profile yet? Click here to get started! 

More Valuable Resources

• Join a free recruiting workshop to learn how to get recruited and more.  
• NCSA memberships come with a free year of IMG Academy+ Essentials. Learn more.
• Click here to access mental performance, nutrition, and NIL courses on your schedule.  

The post What’s It Like To Be A College Recruit On June 15th? appeared first on NCSA College Recruiting.