How do you transfer as a college athlete?

I'm a college athlete considering a transfer to another school. What should I be aware of regarding the NCAA rules and eligibility when transferring as an athlete?

NCAA rules on transferring can be a bit complex, and they differ depending on which sport you play and what division level your current and prospective schools are. However, a few general rules can apply.

Firstly, it's important to keep in mind that NCAA Division I rules require student-athletes to complete a full academic year at their current school before they are eligible to compete at another Division I institution. This is what's often referred to as the Residence Requirement. This rule does make exceptions for certain situations, known as One-Time Transfer Exception, notably for student-athletes participating in certain sports (like baseball, Basketball, football, and men's ice hockey), but these exceptions can also vary depending on the division of both the departing and the receiving institution.

It's also crucial to know that you must receive permission or a "release" from your current school before you can start the process of transferring to another school. This is done by your current school notifying the NCAA's Transfer Portal that you intend to transfer.

When it comes to eligibility, you should stay on top of your academic performance because it plays a significant role in your eligibility. For instance, the NCAA requires student-athletes to maintain progress toward a degree, with specific percentages of their degree that must be completed each year. Not fulfilling these requirements may jeopardize your eligibility at your new school.

Remember to talk to your coaches and your school's Athletic Compliance office before making any decisions, as they often have the most up-to-date and accurate information. Also, you'll want to get in touch with the compliance office or the athletic department at your prospective school to understand your athletic and academic eligibility once you make the transfer.

Your main objective should be maintaining open and honest communication with your coaches, teammates, and other sports staff throughout the transfer process. This transparency can help minimize potential misunderstandings and make the process smoother for everyone involved.

Keep in mind that this is a broad overview, and rules can often change, so you should verify this information by visiting the NCAA's official website or talking to your school's compliance office.