Resources > Academics and Eligibility
NCAA Eligibility Requirements (Updated for 2025)
To compete in NCAA athletics, you must meet specific academic and amateurism standards. Here's what you need to know to stay eligible.
Academic Requirements
Core Course Requirements
Division I: 16 core courses Division II: 16 core courses
Required breakdown:
- 4 units of English
- 3 units of mathematics (Algebra I or higher)
- 2 units of natural/physical science (including 1 lab)
- 1 additional unit of English, math, or science
- 2 units of social science
- 4 additional units of any combination above, foreign language, comparative religion, or philosophy
GPA Standards
Division I: Minimum 2.3 core-course GPA Division II: Minimum 2.2 core-course GPA
Note: Your core-course GPA is calculated using only NCAA-approved core courses
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Get Started →Test Score Requirements
Division I: No test scores required — the NCAA dropped SAT/ACT scores from eligibility for students enrolling from August 2023 Division II: No test scores required (same 2023 change)
Important: Some colleges still want test scores for admission or academic scholarships
If Your Core GPA Is Below 2.3 (Division I)
There's no longer a sliding scale: test scores can't make up for a low GPA. Under the current rules, a core GPA of 2.000–2.299 makes you an "academic redshirt": you can receive an athletic scholarship in your first year and practice in your first term, but you can't compete in your first year. The academic-redshirt category stays in the Division I rules adopted in June 2026; under the age-based rules, that year counts as one of your five, so confirm the details for your class with the NCAA Eligibility Center.
Registration Process
NCAA Eligibility Center
When to register: Beginning of junior year (or earlier) Cost: $90 for US students, $140 for international students Website: eligibilitycenter.org
Required documents:
- Official transcripts from all high schools attended
- Proof of graduation
Timeline
Junior year: Register with Eligibility Center, request transcripts Senior year: Final official transcript with proof of graduation sent after graduation Summer before college: Final amateurism certification
Amateurism Requirements
What's NOT allowed:
- Receiving salary for playing your sport
- Prize money above actual and necessary expenses
- Play with professionals
- Contracts with professional teams
- Representation by an agent
- Delayed initial full-time collegiate enrollment to participate in organized sports competition
What IS allowed:
- Prize money up to actual and necessary expenses
- Teaching or coaching for pay (with restrictions)
- Promotional activities (with strict limitations)
Special Circumstances
International Students
- Additional documentation required
- Different transcript evaluation process
- May need credential evaluation service
Homeschooled Students
- Must complete NCAA-approved core courses
- Documentation requirements vary by state
- Consider dual enrollment or online courses
Transfer Students
- Must meet progress-toward-degree requirements
- Academic standards apply at new school
- Residence requirements may apply
Key Deadlines
May 1: Deadline for high school transcript submission for fall enrollment July 1: Final deadline for international students August 1: Final amateurism questionnaire completion
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Waiting too long to register - Start junior year
- Not checking if courses are NCAA-approved - Verify with counselor
- Assuming local graduation requirements = NCAA requirements - They're different
- Not sending final transcripts - Required after graduation
- Accepting inappropriate benefits - When in doubt, ask
Division Differences
Division I
- 16 core courses
- 2.3 minimum GPA
- More restrictive amateurism rules
- Academic Progress Rate (APR) requirements
Division II
- 16 core courses
- 2.2 minimum GPA
- Slightly more flexible amateurism rules
- Academic Success Rate (ASR) requirements
Division III
- No NCAA eligibility center registration required
- Must meet individual school admission standards
- Most restrictive athletic aid rules (no athletic scholarships)
Getting Help
NCAA Eligibility Center:
- Phone: 877-262-1492
- Chat support available online
- Extensive FAQ section
School counselors should be familiar with NCAA requirements and can help ensure you're taking approved courses.
Important: Requirements can change. Always verify current requirements on the official NCAA website and with your school counselor.
Quick Checklist
- Register with NCAA Eligibility Center
- Verify core courses are NCAA-approved
- Maintain required GPA in core courses
- Submit transcripts on time
- Complete amateurism questionnaire
- Send final transcripts after graduation
- Stay informed about rule changes
Meeting NCAA eligibility requirements is your ticket to college athletics. Start early, stay organized, and ask for help when needed.