INDIANAPOLIS, Ind. — National Collegiate Athletic Association (NCAA) Division III student-athletes now can compete during their final season of eligibility while enrolled in school less than full time in the final term of a minor or undergraduate certificate program.
The Division III Management Council approved the change during its meeting this week. Effective immediately, the change allows student-athletes to attend school less than full time if they are completing the necessary credits for a minor or undergraduate certificate program during their final season of eligibility. The new legislation expands the current exception, which allows Division III college-athletes to be enrolled less than full time if they are taking classes toward their degree.
In light of the COVID-19 pandemic, council members felt this was especially relevant, as more and more student-athletes have completed their degrees but have a season of eligibility remaining. This allows them to come back and complete a minor or undergraduate certificate program, while attending school less than full time.
“This will ultimately provide additional opportunity for Division III student-athletes to realize their four years of athletic eligibility,” said Heather Benning, Management Council chair and executive director of the Midwest Conference. “The legislation, proposed by the Interpretations and Legislation Committee and supported by the Division III SAAC and Faculty Athletics Representatives Advisory Group, would position Division III similarly to Divisions I and II on this issue.”
Student-athletes must demonstrate that they can complete their minor or undergraduate certificate program. There is no minimum hour requirement.
Release courtesy National Collegiate Athletic Association (NCAA)
