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IACA Philosophy of Eligibility

Eligibility is based on academic enrollment and good standing, not age or life circumstances.

The International Association of Collegiate Athletics believes athletic participation is an extension of the educational experience. Therefore, eligibility shall be tied to academic progression rather than age or arbitrary enrollment timelines. Student-athletes may compete while pursuing undergraduate, graduate, and doctoral education, encouraging lifelong learning and personal development.

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Unlike traditional collegiate athletic associations that impose restrictive age limits or enrollment clocks, the IACA recognizes that students pursue higher education through diverse pathways. Military service, missionary service, employment, family responsibilities, international educational systems, and other life experiences should not prevent qualified students from participating in collegiate athletics.

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Therefore, IACA eligibility shall be based upon academic enrollment, academic progress, institutional good standing, and remaining seasons of competition rather than age or elapsed time since initial enrollment.

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Eligibility Across Educational Pathways

The International Association of Collegiate Athletics (IACA) recognizes athletic participation as an extension of the educational experience. Eligibility is designed to encourage academic advancement while providing opportunities for traditional students, graduate students, military veterans, adult learners, and international students.

Undergraduate

A student-athlete shall be eligible for:

  • Four (4) seasons of competition

  • Within five (5) years of undergraduate eligibility

Requirements:

  1. Be enrolled in an undergraduate degree program.

  2. Be enrolled in a minimum of six (6) credit hours during the term of competition.

  3. Maintain a minimum cumulative GPA of 2.0.

  4. Make satisfactory academic progress toward degree completion.

  5. Remain in good standing with the institution and the IACA.

A season of competition shall be charged when a student-athlete participates in one or more contests during a declared championship season.

Graduate

Upon completion of a bachelor's degree, a student-athlete shall be eligible for:

  • Two (2) additional seasons of competition

  • Within two (2) years of graduate eligibility

Graduate eligibility may be utilized while pursuing:

  • A Master's Degree

  • A Doctoral Degree

  • Another approved graduate or terminal degree program

Requirements:

  1. Formal admission into a graduate degree program.

  2. Continued satisfactory academic progress.

  3. Good standing with the institution and IACA.

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IACA Eligibility Model

7 Years. 6 Seasons. One Commitment to Education.

  • 5 years to play 4 seasons as an undergraduate student.

  • 2 additional years to play 2 seasons while pursuing a master's or doctoral degree.

  • No age limits.

  • Graduate students eligible.

  • International students welcome.

  • Former professional athletes eligible while pursuing a degree. (Separate Division)

The IACA believes eligibility should reward educational advancement, not punish life experience.

Excellence in Education. Evaluation. Exposure.

Learn More About Eligibility

We invite institutions and student-athletes to contact IACA leadership for detailed eligibility guidance and future bylaws. Our team is here to support your journey toward academic and athletic excellence.

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