NCAA-National Collegiate Athletic Association 

What is the NCAA?

The NCAA, or National Collegiate Athletic Association, was established in 1906 and serves as the athletics governing body for more than 1,000 colleges, universities, conferences and organizations. The national office is in Indianapolis, Indiana, but the member colleges and universities develop the rules and guidelines for athletics eligibility and athletics competition for each of the three NCAA divisions. The NCAA is committed to the student-athlete and to governing competition in a fair, safe, inclusive and sportsmanlike manner.

What is the NCAA Eligibility Center?

The NCAA Eligibility Center certifies the initial academic eligibility and amateur status of all college-bound student-athletes who wish to compete in NCAA Division I or II athletics. More than 1,000 NCAA schools offer a variety of academic and athletics programs, so it is never too early to start doing your homework. Work closely with your high school counselors, coaches, parents/guardians and mentors as you transition to college, which can be a wonderful experience academically and athletically.

As the “front porch” of the NCAA, the NCAA Eligibility Center strives to make your registration and certification experience positive and beneficial. Please note the following helpful tips:

1. Visit the NCAA's "Want to Play College Sports?" page  to learn more about opportunities available at NCAA schools.

2. Know current and future academic requirements for Division I and Division II.

3. Complete NCAA-approved core courses throughout high school. Your high school counselor can help.

4. Register with the NCAA Eligibility Center during your sophomore year if you are interested in Division I or II athletics participation.

5. After six semesters, send official transcripts from all high schools attended to the NCAA Eligibility Center.

If you have questions, please contact the NCAA customer service staff at 877-262-1492.