With all the talk about student athletes and compensation, I'm curious if NCAA players actually get paid nowadays. What kind of compensation, if any, do they receive, and how does it work?
NCAA athletes do not receive a salary similar to professional athletes, as such, they are not paid in the traditional sense. However, they can receive various forms of compensation or benefits. As of July 1, 2021, the NCAA adopted new interim policies that allow student-athletes to monetize their name, image, and likeness (NIL). This means that they can now get paid for endorsements, advertising, and other types of personal promotion. For example, student-athletes can sign contracts for commercials, advertise products on social media, conduct paid autograph signings, run paid training camps, or similar activities.
Moreover, student-athletes on an athletic scholarship may receive tuition, fees, room, board, and course-related books as part of their scholarship package. These scholarships, particularly those that are "full ride," can add up to substantial amounts and offset many of the college costs.
Student-athletes are also allowed to receive compensation from internships and employment that is unrelated to their athletic abilities. However, just like any other student, this income must be disclosed to their university and compliance department to ensure it does not violate NCAA regulations.
Remember, NIL deals must be above-board and not be pay-for-play schemes, or ways to give athletes extra benefits that regular students do not have access to. Each college and university may have its own additional rules or restrictions for student-athletes, so it's always best for student-athletes to check with their athletic department's compliance office before entering into any NIL deals.
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