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Seniors: The Final Steps Toward Your Collegiate Future
It is getting close to that time of year when many seniors will make college decisions and/or sign a National Letter of Intent (NLI). If you are a senior who has yet to make a college selection, there are several factors you should consider before you commit to a college/university.
First, make sure you know exactly where you stand with the coach. Has the coach given you an indication of how much playing time you may receive? Do you and your family trust the coaching staff and feel comfortable being under their supervision for the next four years of your life? Also, how is the team chemistry? Did your future teammates make you feel welcome when you visited?
After you have chosen a college/university, the next step is to commit. If you receive an athletic scholarship offer from a Division I or Division II institution, you will probably be asked to sign the NLI. Signing the NLI confirms that a student-athlete is committed to attend a specific college/university for one academic year. The college/university is committing to providing this student-athlete with athletic financial aid for one academic year, provided that they are admitted to the university and are academically and athletically eligible according to NCAA rules. Once a student-athlete signs a NLI other colleges/universities must stop recruiting the student-athlete.
All Division I institutions use the NLI except for the Ivy League colleges/universities, service academies, and some colleges/universities in the Patriot League. Division III, NAIA, and Junior College programs do not take part in the NLI program.
After you have committed to a college/university, the next thing to do is… relax! You have finished the recruitment process so enjoy the rest of your senior year and start preparing for your collegiate future.ABOUT NCSA
NCSA, the Official Scouting Organization and Provider of Recruiting Education for Cal South, is the premier source for matching high school scholar – athletes with colleges and universities across the country. NCSA is the "Eyes & Ears" of more than 40,000 college coaches, who rely on NCSA's experienced scouting team and instant response capabilities to provide them with quality prospective recruits. NCSA prides itself in educating high school student-athletes and their families about the college recruiting process. Please visit www.ncsasports.org for more information about NCSA.
