Article VII, Section E
Reinstatement Application Procedures
The National Coordinating Committee (NCC) reviews all amateur reinstatement requests for student-athletes seeking to regain eligibility to compete in NAIA athletics. This guide outlines the rules, procedures, and case studies to help understand the reinstatement process.
- Receiving (directly or indirectly) expense reimbursement beyond actual expenses of travel, meals and lodging only. Expenses must be itemized and properly documented.
- Signing a contract with any professional team.
- Participating in any athletics contest as a professional or as a member of a team where the student in question receives remuneration exceeding the actual expenses of travel, meals and lodging only.
- Entering into an agreement of any kind to compete in professional athletics with a professional sports organization.
To regain amateur status, a student-athlete must:
- Cease participation in violations of NAIA amateur-standing regulations.
- Accept a season-of-competition charge for each season competed professionally or in violation of NAIA amateur rules.
- Fulfill residency requirements: Complete two consecutive semesters or three consecutive quarters at the NAIA institution where they intend to compete.
- Submit proper documentation through the NAIA institution to the NCC for review and final dispensation.
- Contract Proof: If a professional or semi-professional contract was signed, provide a copy of the contract.
- Academic Records: Submit transcripts as proof of meeting the residency requirement.
- Amateurism Reinstatement Form: Complete the form available online.
- A season of competition is charged based on the duration of professional engagement, regardless of the number of games played.
- The post-secondary amateur year (PSAY) does not apply in cases of amateurism violations.
- Reinstatement policies apply to all sports, although most cases arise in baseball, golf, and tennis.
Residency Requirements
A student-athlete must serve residency at the NAIA institution where they wish to compete before being reinstated. Residency is defined as being identified (enrolled in 12 or more institutional credits) for two consecutive semesters or three consecutive quarters at the institution.
Key FAQ:
- Does the student need to serve residency at any higher education institution?
No. Residency must be served at the NAIA institution where the student intends to compete.
