All levels
Ages 14–18
High School
Quick Answer
High school athletes compete under their state association (50+ in the US) plus NFHS standards. Academic eligibility, transfer rules, and NIL policies vary dramatically by state; international F-1 students often face limited eligibility windows.
Governing Bodies
NFHSState HS AssociationsNCAA Eligibility Center
Key Points
- Open NCAA Eligibility Center account by sophomore year
- Maintain 16 core courses and minimum GPA
- State NIL rules vary widely
Common Pitfalls
- Transferring without checking state rules
- Missing the NCAA core-course window
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