League: NCAAM Sport: College Sports Country: United States Category: Scores & Results

NCAA enacts five-year competition clock for student-athletes

Yahoo Sports • 1 min read • Latest: Jun 23, 2026, 10:07 PM

Last updated Jun 23, 2026

NCAA enacts five-year competition clock for student-athletes

Summary

The NCAA Division I Cabinet voted unanimously on June 23, 2026, to implement a significant change to eligibility rules, establishing a five-year competition window for student-athletes. The new age-based model eliminates redshirt years and waivers, starting the competition clock when students enroll or turn 19. This change aims to address concerns about athletes extending their eligibility into their mid-20s through waivers, with legal challenges from affected players anticipated. The new rules will affect athletes with remaining eligibility after the 2025-26 academic year and will first apply to those enrolling in 2026-27.

Source Links

Yahoo Sports

By the Numbers

•NCAA approved a five-year competition window for student-athletes on June 23, 2026.
•Redshirt and waiver options are eliminated, with few exceptions.
•Legal challenges are expected from players affected by the new rules.
•The new eligibility model targets athletes with remaining eligibility post-2025-26.
•All future enrollees from 2026 will comply with the age-based model.

Latest Updates