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Important Dates

Application opens: January 20, 2026 – 8 a.m. EST

Application closes: February 20, 2026 – 5 p.m. EST

April 21-24, 2026

Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania

The NFL/NCAA Administrators Academy prepares the next generation of football administrators through immersive leadership development and hands-on mentorship. Designed for graduate assistants and interns, the academy equips aspiring administrators with the skills and resources needed to thrive in college and professional football, with programming shaped by NFL clubs, conference offices and industry leaders.

Applications Closed
Audience

Current interns, graduate assistants and early-career professionals (within the first two years of full-time employment) at NCAA member schools, conference offices, affiliate organizations or the NCAA national office who hold a bachelor’s degree and aspire to careers in football administration.

Format

This program is delivered in two phases: an in-person educational and leadership experience, followed by a five-month mentorship pairing with an NFL or college sports leader.

Time Commitment

A four-day in-person experience held in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, followed by a five-month structured mentorship.

Cost

There is no cost to attend. The NCAA covers travel, lodging, meals and program materials for the in-person experience.

Why Participate?

Develop

Develop leadership and management capabilities essential for advancing in football administration.

Connect

Connect with senior leaders across the NFL, conference offices and campus athletics through direct exposure and meaningful interactions.

Grow

Grow through personalized mentorship with experienced NFL and collegiate leaders during a five-month structured experience.

Expand

Expand your professional network with peers and industry leaders to support long-term career growth.

Through educational sessions, mentorship and industry exposure, participants gain the skills, relationships and confidence to advance into leadership roles across college and professional football administration.

Eligibility

    • Current intern, graduate assistant or in the first two years of full-time employment within an athletics department at an NCAA member school, conference office, affiliate organization or the NCAA national office
    • Bachelor’s degree required
    • Strong interest in pursuing a career in football administration at the collegiate or professional level
    • Demonstrated leadership experience and commitment to the future of the industry

Application Questions & Scoring Guidelines

Applications are evaluated using the following categories and point values (60 points total):

Additional questions? Contact ldevelopment@ncaa.org