A significant shift may be on the horizon for NCAA Division II athletics. The Division II Management Council has endorsed a proposal that would allow student-athletes to compete for five seasons instead of the traditional four, marking one of the most significant eligibility changes in years.
What the Proposal Means
Currently, NCAA athletes have a five-year window to complete four seasons of competition. The new recommendation would extend eligibility to five full seasons within ten semesters (or fifteen quarters) of full-time enrollment.
If approved, the change would align Division II more closely with Division I’s evolving structure and provide greater flexibility for athletes balancing sports, academics, and life events such as injuries or redshirt seasons.
Why It Matters
This adjustment reflects the NCAA’s recognition that college athletics has changed dramatically in recent years. Between the COVID-19 disruptions, increased athlete mobility, and the new Name, Image, Likeness (NIL) era, traditional timelines no longer align with modern realities.
Extending competition time could:
- Help athletes recover from injuries without losing seasons.
- Maintain mental health balance with reduced academic and athletic pressure.
- Support graduate students continuing athletic careers.
- Offer more visibility for smaller programs and athletes who need development time.
What’s Next
The proposal still needs approval from the Division II Presidents Council and could take effect as early as the 2026-27 academic year. Alongside this, Division II leaders are reviewing potential new championships, such as women’s bowling and expanded lacrosse tournaments, with an emphasis on inclusivity and growth.
If adopted, the change would further modernize college sports, giving Division II student-athletes more freedom to shape their athletic journeys.
Conclusion
For athletes and coaches alike, this proposal signals a forward-thinking NCAA that’s adapting to athletes’ needs in real time. It could redefine how long players stay in school, how programs manage rosters, and how fans experience Division II sports.