NIL glossary
What is a third-party NIL deal?
A third-party NIL deal is an NIL agreement with a business or person that is not owned or controlled by the athlete's school, as opposed to a payment from the school itself.
On this page
In detail
There is no cap on third-party NIL. Division I athletes must report third-party deals worth $600 or more in aggregate to NIL Go within five business days, counting cash, products and services and deals that could reach $600 through bonuses or royalties. Since July 1, 2025, schools may not promise or guarantee a third-party deal.
Frequently asked questions
Do third-party NIL deals count against the revenue sharing cap?
No, even when the school helped arrange them.
Sources
- Frequently Asked Questions — College Sports Commission
- Student-Athlete NIL Deals — College Sports Commission
- Revenue Sharing — College Sports Commission
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.