High School & College Athletic Eligibility
I. High School Athletic Participation (NCHSAA)
Students who participate or plan to participate in high school athletics are required to meet academic and attendance eligibility requirements as outlined below. These rules are governed by the **NC High School Athletic Association (NCHSAA)**.
Academic and Attendance Requirements:
A student must **complete and pass a minimum of 3 out of 4 classes** and be in compliance with the **attendance policy** in the semester *prior* to the sport activity.
Eligibility Examples:- Fall Sports (e.g., Football): Eligibility requirements must have been met in the **spring semester** of the previous school year.
- Spring Sports (e.g., Softball): Requirements must be met during the **fall semester** of the current school year.
- Winter Sports (e.g., Basketball): Eligibility is based on the **spring semester** of the previous school year, and must be maintained throughout the fall semester to participate all season.
Reminder: It is the athlete's responsibility to ensure they have the three courses needed to meet the academic requirement. Additional rules (age, enrollment, legal violations) also apply.
II. Collegiate Athletic Participation (NCAA)
Students who anticipate participating in NCAA collegiate athletic programs must meet specific eligibility requirements to play in college.
Key Factors for NCAA Eligibility:
- Core Course GPA: GPA calculation is based **only on core courses** (English, Math, Natural Sciences, Social Sciences, and Foreign Language) using a specific NCAA formula.
- Testing: Meeting minimum testing requirements (SAT or ACT) is necessary.
- Division Variation: Requirements for GPA and testing vary based on the division (Division I, II, or III) of the school.
If you intend to participate in college athletics, meet with your counselor regularly throughout your high school career to ensure you are meeting these complex requirements.