NCAA PROGRESS toward DEGREE LEGISLATION Form

Understanding NCAA Progress Toward Degree Legislation

The NCAA Progress Toward Degree Legislation is a set of rules designed to ensure that student-athletes are making satisfactory academic progress toward their degrees. This legislation requires student-athletes to complete a specific percentage of their degree requirements within a designated time frame. The aim is to promote academic integrity and ensure that student-athletes balance their sports commitments with their educational goals.

Under this legislation, student-athletes must maintain a minimum GPA and complete a certain number of credit hours each academic year. This ensures that they are not only participating in athletics but also progressing academically. The NCAA monitors compliance with these standards to maintain eligibility for competition.

Key Elements of NCAA Progress Toward Degree Legislation

Several critical components make up the NCAA Progress Toward Degree Legislation:

• Credit Hour Requirements: Student-athletes must complete a minimum number of credit hours each academic term to maintain their eligibility.
• GPA Standards: A minimum GPA is required, which varies by division, to ensure student-athletes are academically successful.
• Degree Completion Timeline: Student-athletes must declare a major and complete degree requirements within a specific time frame, typically within five years of initial enrollment.
• Monitoring and Reporting: Institutions are responsible for tracking the academic progress of their student-athletes and reporting this information to the NCAA.

Steps to Comply with NCAA Progress Toward Degree Legislation

To comply with the NCAA Progress Toward Degree Legislation, student-athletes and institutions can follow these steps:

1. Understand Requirements: Familiarize yourself with the specific credit hour and GPA requirements set by the NCAA for your division.
2. Develop an Academic Plan: Work with academic advisors to create a plan that outlines course selections and timelines for degree completion.
3. Track Progress: Regularly monitor academic progress and ensure that all required courses are being completed on time.
4. Seek Support: Utilize campus resources such as tutoring and academic counseling to maintain eligibility.

Eligibility Criteria for NCAA Progress Toward Degree Legislation

To be eligible under the NCAA Progress Toward Degree Legislation, student-athletes must meet specific criteria:

• Be enrolled full-time at an NCAA member institution.
• Declare a major by the end of their second year of enrollment.
• Meet the minimum GPA and credit hour completion standards as outlined by the NCAA.
• Maintain continuous enrollment and progress toward degree completion.

Legal Use of NCAA Progress Toward Degree Legislation

The NCAA Progress Toward Degree Legislation is legally binding for NCAA member institutions. Institutions must adhere to these regulations to ensure that their student-athletes remain eligible for competition. Failure to comply can result in penalties, including loss of scholarships and eligibility for student-athletes. It is essential for both institutions and student-athletes to understand these legal obligations to avoid repercussions.

Examples of NCAA Progress Toward Degree Legislation in Action

Real-world examples illustrate how the NCAA Progress Toward Degree Legislation operates:

• A student-athlete who completes thirty credit hours in their first year and maintains a GPA of at least 2.3 will remain eligible for competition in the following year.
• Institutions that implement academic support programs, such as study halls and tutoring, often see higher compliance rates among their student-athletes.