Welcome to the Recruiting Help Center.
Here you will learn all the basics and have the resources to take the first steps in the college recruiting process.
Scholarship Offers
You've learned about scholarship offers and how to evaluate them, and now it's time to choose which one to accept.
But what happens after you've made your decision? How do you formally commit to a university, and what is an NLI?
This post will provide all the answers and guide you through the process of accepting a scholarship offer.
What is a verbal commitment?
Making a verbal commitment is when you tell the university you're all in for the scholarship offer.
This usually happens through a phone call or chat with the head coach or someone from the athletic department. By giving the green light, the university knows you're on board and they can start getting things ready for you.
Why would I make a verbal commitment?
The upside of making a verbal commitment is that you'll have your spot on the team locked down, and the school will have everything they need to support you as a student-athlete.
But remember, a verbal commitment is not legally binding, and there's always a risk involved.
For example, the university could take back the scholarship offer, or the head coach could leave the program. So, make sure you understand what you're getting into before you make a verbal commitment.
What is an NLI?
The National Letter of Intent, or NLI, is a binding agreement between you and the university stating that you agree to attend the school and play for their athletic team, and the university agrees to provide you with an athletic scholarship.
It's a pretty big deal, as it's a legally binding document that spells out the terms of your scholarship and your commitment to the university.
What is included in an NLI?
An NLI typically includes details such as the amount of your scholarship, length of the agreement, and any other terms and conditions of your scholarship.
Consequences of signing an NLI
Signing an NLI is a big step and it's important to understand the legal consequences before you do so. For example, if you decide to transfer to another school or change sports, you may be required to sit out for a year or lose your scholarship altogether.
Difference between NLI & Scholarship Agreement (Offer)
It's also important to note that an NLI differs from a scholarship agreement, which is simply a written agreement between you and the university outlining the terms of your scholarship.
In short, the NLI is the legal document that binds you to the university, while a scholarship agreement is simply a written agreement outlining the terms of your scholarship.
Once you've signed the NLI, it's time to prepare for your journey as a student-athlete at your chosen university.
After signing, you'll likely receive information from the university about your next steps, such as registering for classes, meeting with the athletic department, and getting settled on campus. It's important to stay organized and on top of things, as there will be a lot of details to keep track of.
But the most important thing to remember is that by signing the NLI, you've agreed to fulfill the terms of your scholarship agreement. This means maintaining your academic and athletic eligibility, participating in all required activities, and following all university and NCAA rules and regulations.
Fulfilling the terms of your scholarship agreement is essential, as failing can result in your scholarship loss and jeopardize your future as a student-athlete.
So, be sure to stay on top of things and prioritize your scholarship agreement to ensure a successful and fulfilling experience as a student-athlete.
Committing to a university and signing the NLI is a huge milestone in your journey as a student-athlete. It's a decision that will impact your future and shape your college experience, so it's important to do it right.
With so much on the line, it's understandable if you feel a bit nervous about the process. That's why we're here to help.
Our team is ready to guide you through every step and answer any questions you may have. So, if you're ready to take the next step and secure your future as a student-athlete, don't hesitate to reach out to us.
