Over 500 academic institutions participate in the National Letter of Intent (NLI) program for the benefit of prospective student-athletes and their athletic programs.

By signing an NLI, the prospect agrees to attend that institution for a minimum of one academic year. In return, the institution agrees to provide athletically related financial aid (scholarship/grant in aid) for the same period (the financial agreement is signed on the same day as the NLI).

After signing the NLI, the prospective student athlete is no longer a ‘recruitable’ prospect to other institutions that participate in the NLI program and these other programs are required to cease recruitment of the prospect immediately. When a prospect signs an NLI, they are signing for an institution and not a specific coach. If the coach leaves the program, the prospect is still committed to attend and participate in the program for that university or college.

Finally, even when a prospect signs a National Letter of Intent they are still required to gain admission to the institution and to be certified by the NCAA Eligibility Centre and NAIA college before becoming a collegiate student athlete. If a prospect does not gain admission to the institution or if he or she is deemed ineligible by the NCAA Eligibility Centre, the NLI becomes void.

For more information and conditions of the National Letter of Intent Program, please check out their website.