The NCAA Award of Valor may be presented to a coach or administrator currently associated with intercollegiate athletics, or to a current or former varsity letter-winner at an NCAA institution who, when confronted with a situation involving personal danger, averted or minimized potential disaster by courageous action or noteworthy bravery.

For a member of the armed forces confronted with a duty-connected situation to be eligible for the Award of Valor, the action must be clearly above and beyond the call of duty and so recognized by the appropriate military command.

For an on-duty member of a police force or similar security or protective organization to be eligible for the Award of Valor, the action must be clearly above and beyond the call of duty and so recognized by the appropriate authority.

:Award of Valor honorees are selected by the NCAA Honors Committee, composed of representatives from NCAA member schools and conferences, as well as nationally distinguished citizens, including past awardees.