Compliance - Prospective Student-Athletes - NCAA Eligibility Center FAQ
The questions and answers below should get you started. If you have more
questions, please contact the University of
Kentucky Compliance Office or check
the NCAA Eligibility
website.
What is the NCAA Eligibility Center?
The NCAA Eligibility Center is the governing organization that officially certifies
student -athletes as academically eligible to compete in NCAA Division I
or Division II athletics.
Why do I have to register?
If you want to compete in NCAA Division I or Division II athletics, you must
fulfill certain academic requirements, which include coursework, grade point
average, and test scores. The Eligibility Center checks whether you meet
these requirements and certifies your eligibility to play for any college
or university that may be interested in recruiting you.
When should I register?
If you want to play as a freshman, you should register with the Eligibility
Center at the end of your junior year of high school. The Eligibility Center
will not evaluate your record unless you have completed six semesters of
high school coursework. The Eligibility Center must have certified your eligibility
before you can receive an athletic scholarship, practice, or compete at a
Division I or Division II institution.
How do I register?
- Pick up an NCAA Eligibility Center application from
your high school guidance counselor. (Your counselor can call (319) 337-1492
to receive free copies.)
- Complete the student-release form. This form authorizes your high school
to send your academic records to the Eligibility Center.
- along with the $50 registration fee. (Fee waivers are available for eligible
students.)
- After graduation, your school must send the Eligibility Center a copy of
your final transcript, confirming your graduation from high school.
What happens after I submit my registration forms?
During the summer before your senior year, the Eligibility Center will send
you an evaluation of your academic record. This evaluation will tell you
what high school coursework you still need to take in order to become certified
as eligible to play NCAA Division I or Division II athletics. Use this evaluation
to schedule courses during your senior year.
What are the NCAA's academic eligibility requirements?
On the website, you can find out which courses offered
by your high school count toward freshman eligibility.
