NIL glossary
What is a prospective student-athlete?
A prospective student-athlete is a high school, junior college or transfer athlete who has not yet enrolled and competed at a college, and NCAA and state rules treat NIL deals with prospects differently from deals with enrolled athletes.
On this page
In detail
A prospect who enrolls at a Division I school must report third-party deals of $600 or more made after the later of July 1, 2025 or the first day of junior year (or first enrollment at a two-year college), within 14 days of enrolling or before the first game. Some states restrict deals with prospects: Texas bars NIL arrangements with prospects under 17, and California and New York bar colleges from paying prospects for NIL.
Frequently asked questions
Can colleges pay recruits for NIL?
Rules vary. Several state laws bar colleges from paying prospective athletes for NIL, and every rule set bars recruiting inducements.
Sources
- Rules and Policies — College Sports Commission
- NIL Information — University Interscholastic League
- California Education Code § 67456 — FindLaw (California Code)
- New York Education Law § 6438-C — The New York State Senate
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.