The advantages of competing in college sports are both immediate and lifelong. Participating in college sports provides opportunities to learn, compete and succeed. Student-athletes receive top-notch academic support, quality medical care and regular access to outstanding coaching, facilities and equipment. Student-athletes as a group graduate at higher rates than their peers in the general student body and feel better prepared for life after college.

Learn more about the three divisions

College-bound student-athletes preparing to enroll in a Division I or Division II school need to register with the NCAA Eligibility Center to ensure they have met amateurism standards and are academically prepared for college coursework. 

Are you interested in playing college sports? Download this brochure to find out.
 

Educational Resources

The following resources are designed for high school student-athletes, parents, coaches and other who help students successfully navigate the initial-eligibility process.

Quick Hits

• Initial-Eligibility Brochure: A basic look at the requirements to becoming an NCAA Division I or II student-athlete.
• Division I Initial-Eligibility Quick Reference Sheet: A brief overview of Division I initial-eligibility academic requirements.
• Division II Initial-Eligibility Quick Reference Sheet: A brief overview of Division II initial-eligibility academic requirements.
• International Academic Requirements: Country-specific information for initial-eligibility requirements.

Comprehensive Guides

• Guide for the College-Bound Student-Athlete: A comprehensive guide to the initial-eligibility process.