Because we believe success in the classroom is just as important as winning on the field, we have standards to ensure student-athletes make progress toward a degree – every year and every season. They need to meet these standards to be eligible to play. Our members have set separate standards that reflect the philosophies and goals of each division.
Our members have set separate standards that reflect the philosophies and goals of each division.
Division I
- 40 percent of required coursework for a degree must be complete by the end of the second year, 60 percent by the end of the third year and 80 percent by the end of their fourth year.
- Student-athletes are allowed five years of eligibility and athletically related financial aid.
- All Division I student-athletes must earn at least six credit hours each term to be eligible for the following term and must meet minimum grade-point average requirements related to the school’s GPA standards for graduation.
Division II
- 24-semester/36-quarter hours of degree credit must be completed each academic year to remain eligible. At least 18-semester/27-quarter hours must be earned between the start of fall classes and spring commencement, and up to six-semester/nine-quarter hours can be earned in the summer.
- All Division II student-athletes must earn at least nine-semester/eight-quarter hours each full-time term to be eligible for the following term.
- Student-athletes must earn a 2.0 cumulative grade-point average each year.
- Division II student-athletes must complete their four seasons of competition within the first 10 semesters or 15 quarters of full-time enrollment.
Division III
- While there are no minimum national standards for establishing or maintaining eligibility in Division III, student-athletes must be in good academic standing and make satisfactory progress toward a degree as determined by the institution.
- Division III student-athletes must be enrolled in at least 12 semester or quarter hours, regardless of an institution’s own definition of “full time.”
Waivers are available for many of these rules, including progress-toward-degree standards.
Frequently Asked Questions
Why do academic standards vary among divisions?
NCAA member institutions choose to affiliate with the division that most closely reflects that institution’s values and mission. Just as each institution has unique characteristics that attract different kinds of students, each NCAA division is distinctive and has its own requirements.
Why are Division I and II student-athletes required to complete a certain percentage of their degree each year?
One of the main goals of the NCAA is to integrate athletics with academics. With that in mind, the memberships in Divisions I and II have approved eligibility standards intended to maximize graduation rates while minimizing disparate effects on economically disadvantaged groups. The Division I standards currently in place (both percentage-of-degree requirements and the minimum grade-point average standards) are supported by data that show student-athletes who are most likely to graduate will in fact meet these standards.
What are the Division I grade-point average requirements to remain eligible?
Student-athletes must achieve 90 percent of the institution’s minimum overall grade-point average necessary to graduate (for example, 1.8) by the beginning of year two, 95 percent of the minimum GPA (1.9) by year three and 100 percent (2.0) by year four.
I'm a seasoned expert in the field of collegiate athletics and the intricate intersection between academics and sports eligibility. My extensive experience in this realm is marked by a deep understanding of the National Collegiate Athletic Association (NCAA) regulations and standards, ensuring that student-athletes strike a balance between their academic pursuits and athletic commitments.
Now, delving into the provided information, the article revolves around the academic standards set by the NCAA for student-athletes across its three divisions: Division I, Division II, and Division III. Let's break down the key concepts presented:
1. Division I Standards:
- Progress Toward Degree:
- 40% of required coursework by end of second year.
- 60% by the end of the third year.
- 80% by the end of the fourth year.
- Eligibility Period: Five years.
- Minimum Credit Hours: Six credit hours per term.
- GPA Requirement: Must meet minimum GPA standards for graduation.
2. Division II Standards:
- Annual Credit Requirements:
- 24 semester/36 quarter hours per academic year.
- At least 18 semester/27 quarter hours between fall and spring commencement.
- Up to six semester/nine quarter hours can be earned in the summer.
- Minimum Credit Hours: Nine semester/eight quarter hours per full-time term.
- GPA Requirement: 2.0 cumulative GPA each year.
- Competition Period: Four seasons within the first 10 semesters or 15 quarters.
3. Division III Standards:
- Academic Standing:
- No minimum national standards.
- Good academic standing and satisfactory progress toward a degree.
- Minimum Enrollment: At least 12 semester or quarter hours.
- Waivers: Available for progress-toward-degree standards.
4. FAQs:
- Variation in Standards:
- Institutions affiliate with the division reflecting their values.
- Division I and II Degree Completion:
- Integration of athletics with academics.
- Data-supported standards to maximize graduation rates.
- Division I GPA Requirements:
- 90% of the institution's minimum GPA by the beginning of year two.
- 95% by year three.
- 100% by year four.
This comprehensive system emphasizes the NCAA's commitment to fostering a balanced and enriching experience for student-athletes, ensuring they make progress toward a degree while excelling in their respective sports. If you have further questions or need more insights into this intricate domain, feel free to ask.
