How Recruiting Works
Recruiting looks different at every division and in every sport. Before you get recruited, understand:
- Coaches initiate most recruiting conversations
- Exposure matters – campus, film, club participation
- Academics are part of the recruiting decision
- Communication rules vary by division and grade level
- Coaches can confirm whether a student has registered with the NCAA Eligibility Center
TIP: Parents or guardians often lead this process in 9th and 10th grade. But by 11th and 12th grade, students should take ownership and lead communication.
What Counts as Recruiting?
NCAA recruiting rules are designed to help create a fair and balanced experience for student-athletes. These rules determine when and how college coaches can communicate with students and families during the recruiting process.
Coaches may contact prospective student-athletes through calls, texts, emails or other approved communication methods, depending on sport- and division-specific rules.
Messages through social media may be part of the recruiting process.
A coach visiting your high school may count as recruiting activity.
A campus visit, especially an expense-paid visit, may be part of the recruiting process.
An athletics aid agreement may mean you are being recruited.
If you are being recruited and currently have a Profile Page account, transition your account to the right certification account. Division I and II recruits generally need an Academic and Athletics Certification account.
Signing Dates
Signing dates vary by sport. Review the current signing periods to understand when prospective student-athletes may sign written offers of athletics aid.
Signing dates do not apply to four-year transfers. Four-year transfers must be permissibly entered in the NCAA Transfer Portal before signing a written offer of athletics aid.
Recruiting calendars help define when and how NCAA coaches may recruit prospective student-athletes. These rules vary by sport and division and are designed to support student-athlete well-being and create a fair recruiting environment.
Still Need Help?
Contact the Eligibility Center Customer Service team
| Domestic and Canadian students (except Quebec) | 877-262-1492 |
| International and Quebec students | International Contact Form |
| High School Counselors (PIN required) | 877-622-2321 |
| NCAA Compliance Administrators | Membership Portal |