NCAA Recruit Checklist
Complete guide for high school athletes navigating NCAA eligibility
If you're serious about playing college sports at the NCAA level, eligibility compliance isn't optional—it's required. This checklist breaks down exactly what you need to do, when you need to do it, and why it matters.
⚠️ Important Note
This checklist is specifically for NCAA eligibility. NAIA, NJCAA, and other governing bodies have their own requirements. Always verify current rules with the official NCAA Eligibility Center, as policies can change.
NCAA Eligibility & Compliance
Create an NCAA Eligibility Center account
This is step one. You cannot be certified as an NCAA athlete without it.
When: Start as early as freshman year, but no later than junior year
Where: eligibilitycenter.org
Cost: Fee varies (fee waivers available for those who qualify)
Complete amateurism questionnaire
The NCAA requires you to answer questions about your amateur status. This confirms you haven't been paid to play, signed with an agent, or violated other amateurism rules.
When: After creating your account—complete it early
Why it matters: You can't be certified without it
Submit high school(s) attended
List every high school you've attended. The NCAA needs to verify your coursework from each school.
When: As soon as you create your account
Note: If you transferred schools, include all of them
Request official transcripts
Your high school must send official transcripts directly to the NCAA Eligibility Center. You cannot submit them yourself.
When: End of junior year (6 semesters) + final transcript after graduation
How: Request through your high school counselor or registrar
Critical: Make sure your school has your NCAA ID number
Send SAT/ACT scores (if applicable)
For Division I and II, test scores may be required depending on your GPA and core course grades. Division III does not require standardized test scores for eligibility.
When: After taking the SAT or ACT
How: Use NCAA code 9999 when sending scores
Note: Check current NCAA sliding scale requirements
Confirm core course completion & GPA alignment
The NCAA requires a minimum number of core courses (English, math, science, social studies, etc.) and a minimum core-course GPA.
Division I: 16 core courses
Division II: 16 core courses
Division III: No NCAA-mandated minimums, but schools have their own academic standards
When: Track throughout high school—stay ahead of requirements
Pro Tip: Work with your school counselor to confirm your courses are NCAA-approved
Re-certify eligibility senior year
After you graduate, the NCAA will review your final transcripts and test scores (if applicable) to issue your final certification status.
When: After high school graduation
Why it matters: This determines whether you're cleared to compete as a freshman
Quick Reference: Key Deadlines
- Freshman/Sophomore Year: Create NCAA Eligibility Center account, start tracking core courses
- Junior Year (End): Request 6-semester transcript, take SAT/ACT if needed
- Senior Year (Fall): Complete amateurism questionnaire, re-take SAT/ACT if needed
- Senior Year (Spring): Request final transcript after graduation
- Summer Before College: Confirm final certification status
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Waiting until senior year to start — Start early, stay ahead
- Not tracking core courses — Verify courses are NCAA-approved
- Submitting transcripts yourself — Only official transcripts sent directly from your school are accepted
- Forgetting to send final transcript — You're not cleared until the NCAA receives it
- Assuming your school will handle it — This is your responsibility—stay on top of deadlines
Additional Resources
Final Note
NCAA eligibility can feel overwhelming, but it's manageable if you start early and stay organized. Don't wait until the last minute. Work with your school counselor, check your account regularly, and make sure everything is submitted on time.
Ready to Get Recruited?
Create your professional recruiting page and put yourself in position.
Get Started Free