The NCAA News - News and Features

January 13, 1997

Legislative assistance

1997 Column No. 2
NCAA Bylaw 14.5.5.4
Competition in the year of transfer

NCAA Divisions I and II institutions should note that in accordance with Bylaw 14.5.5.4, a transfer student from a four-year institution who has received a waiver of or exception to the transfer residence requirement pursuant to 14.5.5.3 is not eligible to compete during the traditional segment at the certifying institution if the student-athlete has competed during the traditional segment during the same academic year in that sport at the previous institution. During its May 25, 1995, telephone conference, the NCAA Interpretations Committee determined that if a student-athlete competes for an institution that determines the length of its playing season by using the 144-day traditional-segment option (i.e., individual sports) or competes for an institution that conducts one continuous traditional segment, the student-athlete may not compete during the traditional segment of the same academic year in that sport upon transfer to another Division I or II institution.

Bylaw 14.1.7.3
Eligibility for competition and practice following student-athlete's final semester or quarter

NCAA institutions should note that in accordance with Bylaw 14.1.7.3, a student-athlete who is eligible during the term in which degree work is completed (or eligible as a graduate, pursuant to Bylaw 14.1.7) remains eligible for any NCAA championship, and in Division I for any postseason certified bowl game or National Invitation Tournament, that begins within 60 days after the end of the term in which the student completes the requirements for the degree (or graduate eligibility). The NCAA Council, or a committee designated by the Council to act for it, may waive the 60-day requirement when an NCAA championship, postseason certified bowl game or National Invitation Tournament is conducted at the conclusion of the traditional playing season but more than 60 days following the end of the said term. During its June 30, 1992, telephone conference, the NCAA Interpretations Committee determined that a student-athlete who completes his or her degree requirements may participate in regular-season competition that precedes an NCAA championship (in that sport) that begins within 60 days after the end of the term in which the student completes the requirements for the degree (or graduate eligibility), provided the student-athlete has not exhausted his or her five years or 10 semesters/15 quarters of eligibility. Further, inasmuch as a student-athlete is eligible pursuant to Bylaws 14.1.6.2.1.3 and 14.1.7.2 for any NCAA championship, and in Division I for any postseason certified bowl game or National Invitation Tournament, the student-athlete also may participate in practice activities during that time.

This material was provided by the legislative services staff as an aid to member institutions. If an institution has a question or comment regarding this column, such correspondence should be directed to Richard C. Perko, legislative assistant, at the NCAA national office. This information is available on the Collegiate Sports Network.