Can Military Veterans play college football?

Hey everyone! I'm a military veteran thinking about going to college and I'm really interested in playing football when I get there. Does anyone know if there are restrictions or specific rules regarding a veteran's eligibility to play college sports?

Hello! Firstly, your service is appreciated! Regarding your question, the short answer is yes, military veterans can play college football and other NCAA governed sports. The NCAA does have age-based restrictions for Division I athletics, but they also have specific rules allowing certain exceptions for military service.

Specifically, for NCAA Division I, once you've enrolled in college as a full-time student, your "eligibility clock" begins and typically runs for five years (excepting certain circumstances), during which you have four years of eligibility to compete athletically. For Division II and III, there's no "eligibility clock", but you have ten full-time semesters or fifteen quarters to use your four seasons of competition.

However, military service can stop or delay the starting of the clock. If the service begins after enrollment in college, the clock can be paused. If it begins before enrollment, the clock starting can be delayed. An example is if you enlisted immediately after high school, then upon your return your clock would start with your first full-time college enrollment.

This is a simplified explanation of a complex set of rules. Thus, when you're ready to head to college, I recommend reaching out to the athletic compliance office of your chosen college and/or the NCAA directly just to be clear on your eligibility. They will be able to provide you with the most accurate information. Keep pursuing your passion and best of luck with your college journey and football career!