NCAA Replaces NLI with New Athletics Aid Offers, Integrates NIL Opportunities

Earlier this year the NCAA announced changes to the National Letter of Intent (NLI) program, transitioning from the traditional NLI to written offers of athletics aid. While this adjustment may appear significant, it largely represents a rebranding, as the core process and dates will remain the same.

Under the new system, written offers of athletics aid will replace the NLI, with signing dates adhering to the existing formula used for NLIs. Athletes will continue to sign on the same dates as before, maintaining consistency in the recruiting calendar.

An important shift, however, is the expanded scope of these written offers. Athletics aid packages will now include any Name, Image, and Likeness (NIL) agreements, meaning financial compensation from NIL deals can be part of the official athletics aid offer. This change brings clarity and transparency, allowing athletes to consider all financial aspects of their commitment when signing.

This move aims to streamline the process while aligning the official athletics aid offer with the realities of today’s collegiate sports environment, where NIL opportunities play a significant role in many athletes’ decisions. It simplifies the signing process for athletes and coaches, integrating NIL within the formal recruiting structure of college sports.

Want to Play College Sports? Get Registered with the NCAA Eligibility Center!

A BIG Step to College Recruiting: Register with the NCAA Eligibility Center”

If you’re a high school athlete with dreams of competing at the NCAA level, the big step in the recruiting process is registering with the NCAA Eligibility Center. This is an important requirement for student-athletes who want to play college sports at the Division I or II level.

When Should You Register?

You can start your registration as early as your freshman year of high school. The sooner you create your account, the better—it helps you stay on track with eligibility requirements, academic progress, and recruiting opportunities. It’s especially important to register before attending college athletic camps or official campus visits so coaches can verify your status.

Choosing the Right NCAA Account

The NCAA Eligibility Center offers three types of accounts:

  • Profile Page (Free) – A great starting point! If you’re not sure about competing in college yet, this account allows you to receive updates and easily upgrade later.
  • Certification Account (Required for D1 & D2 Athletes) – If you plan to compete at the Division I or II level, you’ll need to upgrade to this account to get officially certified.
  • International Student Account – Designed for student-athletes from outside the U.S.

How to Register

To begin, visit the NCAA Eligibility Center website and create your account. If you’re a PrepStar athlete, you can find a direct link to the NCAA Eligibility Center in the Locker Room folder of your PrepStar recruit profile.

Stay Ahead in the Recruiting Process

Registering early ensures you meet academic and amateurism standards while staying prepared for scholarship opportunities. Don’t wait—get your eligibility set up today!