NIL glossary
What is amateurism in high school sports?
Amateurism is the rule that an athlete competes without being paid for athletic participation; high school associations decide whether NIL money affects a student's amateur status, and most now say it does not if their NIL rules are followed.
On this page
In detail
For decades the NCAA's amateurism rules barred NIL income; its interim policy suspended those rules for NIL on July 1, 2021. In high school, NIL rules usually sit inside the association's amateur rule, such as CIF Bylaw 212 in California or Article II, Section 18 in Tennessee.
Frequently asked questions
Does NIL money make a high school athlete a professional?
Not in states whose association allows NIL, as long as its rules are followed. In states that do not allow it, it can cost eligibility.
Sources
- NCAA adopts interim name, image and likeness policy (June 30, 2021) — NCAA
- Appendix N: Guidelines Regarding Name, Image and Likeness (2025-26) — Georgia High School Association
This is general information, not legal advice. NIL rules differ by state, school, association and sport, and they change often. Check the official sources linked on this page and talk with your school's compliance office, your state association or a licensed attorney before you sign anything.