2.10 The Principle of Competitive Equity. [* The ns of the Association and the activities of its members shall promote opportunity for eq- uity in competition to assure that individual student-athletes and institutions will not be prevented unfairly from benefits inherent in participation in intercollegiate athletics 2.11 The Principle Governing Recruiting. [* The recruiting process involves a balancing of the interests of prospective student-athletes, their educational in- stitutions and the Associations member institutions. Recruiting regulations shall be designed to promote equity among member institutions in their recruiting of prospective student-athletes and to shield ther pressures that may interfere with the scholastic or athletics interests of the prospects or their educational institu- 2.12 The Principle Governing Eligibility. [*] Eligibility requirements shall be designed to assure proper emphasis n educational objectives, to promote com- petitive equity among institutions and to prevent exploitation of student-athletes 2. 13 The Principle Governing Financial Aid. [* A student-athlete may receive athletically related financial aid administered by the institution without violating the principle of amateurism, provided the amount does not exceed the cost of education authorized by the associ ation; however, such aid as defined by the Association shall not exceed the cost of attendance as published by each institution. Any other financial assistance, except that received from one upon whom the student-athlete is natu- ally or legally dependent, shall be prohibited unless specifically authorized by the Association.(Revised: 119/96) 2.14 The Principle Governing Playing and Practice Seasons.[*] The time required of student-athletes for participation in intercollegiate athletics shall be regulated to minimize terference with their opportunities for acquiring a quality education in a manner consistent with that afforded the general student bod 2.15 The Principle Governing Postseason Competition and Contests Sponsored by Noncollegiate Organizations. [* The conditions under which postseason competition occurs shall be controlled to assure that the benefits inherent in such competition How fairly to all participants, to prevent unjustified intrusion on the time student-athlete devote to their academic programs, and to protect student-athletes from exploitation by professional and com- 2.16 The Principle Governing the Economy of Athletics Program Operation[“] Intercollegiate athletics programs shall be administered in keeping with prudent management and fiscal practi o assure the financial stability necessary for providing student-athletes with adequate opportunities for athletics ompetition as an integral part of a quality educational experience 2015-16 Division /1-January
2PRINCIPLES 5 2.10 The Principle of Competitive Equity. [*] The structure and programs of the Association and the activities of its members shall promote opportunity for equity in competition to assure that individual student-athletes and institutions will not be prevented unfairly from achieving the benefits inherent in participation in intercollegiate athletics. 2.11 The Principle Governing Recruiting. [*] The recruiting process involves a balancing of the interests of prospective student-athletes, their educational institutions and the Association’s member institutions. Recruiting regulations shall be designed to promote equity among member institutions in their recruiting of prospective student-athletes and to shield them from undue pressures that may interfere with the scholastic or athletics interests of the prospects or their educational institutions. 2.12 The Principle Governing Eligibility. [*] Eligibility requirements shall be designed to assure proper emphasis on educational objectives, to promote competitive equity among institutions and to prevent exploitation of student-athletes. 2.13 The Principle Governing Financial Aid. [*] A student-athlete may receive athletically related financial aid administered by the institution without violating the principle of amateurism, provided the amount does not exceed the cost of education authorized by the Association; however, such aid as defined by the Association shall not exceed the cost of attendance as published by each institution. Any other financial assistance, except that received from one upon whom the student-athlete is naturally or legally dependent, shall be prohibited unless specifically authorized by the Association. (Revised: 1/9/96) 2.14 The Principle Governing Playing and Practice Seasons. [*] The time required of student-athletes for participation in intercollegiate athletics shall be regulated to minimize interference with their opportunities for acquiring a quality education in a manner consistent with that afforded the general student body. 2.15 The Principle Governing Postseason Competition and Contests Sponsored by Noncollegiate Organizations. [*] The conditions under which postseason competition occurs shall be controlled to assure that the benefits inherent in such competition flow fairly to all participants, to prevent unjustified intrusion on the time student-athletes devote to their academic programs, and to protect student-athletes from exploitation by professional and commercial enterprises. 2.16 The Principle Governing the Economy of Athletics Program Operation. [*] Intercollegiate athletics programs shall be administered in keeping with prudent management and fiscal practices to assure the financial stability necessary for providing student-athletes with adequate opportunities for athletics competition as an integral part of a quality educational experience. 2015-16 Division III – January 2PRINCIPLES
CONSTITUTION, ARTICLE 3 NCAA Membershi 3.02 Definitions and Applicatio.. 3.01 General Principles... 3.3 Member Conference 3.4 Affiliated Membership 3.1 Eligibility for Membership 8 3.6 Provisional Membership 32 Active Membership… 9 3.7 Dues of members 3678 3.01 General Principles 3.01.1 Classes of Membership. The NCAA offers four classes of membership: active, conference, af filiated and provisional. Eligibility for and method of election to membership, obligations and conditions for continuing membership, voting rights, and other membership privileges for each class are defined in this article (Revised: 1/11194 effective 9/2/94, 1/15/11 effective 8/1/11) 3.01.2 Division Membership. Active and conference members of the NCAA may be divided into divisions for purposes of bylaw legislation and competition in NCAA championships. Criteria for membership in these divisions are defined in Bylaw 20 3.01.3 obligation to Meet Division Criteria. Division membership criteria constitute enforceable legis lation. Each member institution shall comply with all applicable criteria of its division, and an institution that fails to do so shall be subject to the enforcement procedures, as well as to possible reclassification 3.01.4 Assignment to Geographical Areas. Active and conference members are assigned to geographi cal areas for the purpose of representation on the Management Council, Presidents Council and various commit tees, as well as to facilitate the work of the Association. Geographical districts and regions are defined in Constitu 3.01.5 Termination or Suspension of Membership. All rights and privileges of a member shall cease immediately upon termination or suspension of its membershi 3.02 Definitions and Applications. 3.02.1 Competitive Body. A competitive body is an athletics conference that conducts competition among its member institutions and determines a conference champion in one or more sports 3.02.2 Legislative Body. a legislative body is an athletics conference that develops and maintains rules and regulations governing the athletics programs and activities of its member institutions 3.02.3 Membership Categories. 3.02.3.1 Active Member. An active member is a four-year college or university or a two-year upper-level institution accredited by the oprate regi nd duly elected to active mem- bership under the provisions of this article(see Constitution 3. 2. 3). Active members have the right to compete uzz in NCAA championships, to vote on legislation and other issues before the Association, and to enjoy other privi- leges of membership designated in the constitution and bylaws of the Association. ( See Constitution 3.2.2.1.1 regarding restrictions on the privileges of for-profit institutions. )(Revised: 10/21/14, 3. 1. 1 Athletics Consortium An athletics consortium consists of one member institution and neighboring member or nonmember institutions(but not more than one nonmember institution),rec- ognized and approved by Membership Committee). The student-athletes of the combined institutions are permitted to compete on the NCAa member institutions athletics teams, provided they meet the eligibility requirements of the NCAA and the member institution(see Constitution 3. 1. 2).(Revised. 7/21/15) 3.02.3.1.2 Membership classification Status. 3.02. 3.1.2.1 Probation. Probation is a membership classification status assigned to an institution that indicates that an institutions membership is not in good standing. The status of probation serves a warning that certain conditions and obligations of membership have not been satisfied and failure to correct such deficiencies shall result in the institutions reclassification to the category of restricted membership. During the probationary year, the institution shall be required to complete an athletics program assessment using a form approved by the Membership Committee and shall also be provided with the guiding principles to a model Division III athletics program. An institutional staff nember(s)may also be required to attend an NCAA Regional Rules Seminar. An institution does not 2015-16 Division /1-January
3NCAA MEMBERSHIP 7 CONSTITUTION, ARTICLE 3 NCAA Membership 3.01 General Principles. 3.01.1 Classes of Membership. The NCAA offers four classes of membership: active, conference, affiliated and provisional. Eligibility for and method of election to membership, obligations and conditions for continuing membership, voting rights, and other membership privileges for each class are defined in this article. (Revised: 1/11/94 effective 9/2/94, 1/15/11 effective 8/1/11) 3.01.2 Division Membership. Active and conference members of the NCAA may be divided into divisions for purposes of bylaw legislation and competition in NCAA championships. Criteria for membership in these divisions are defined in Bylaw 20. 3.01.3 Obligation to Meet Division Criteria. Division membership criteria constitute enforceable legislation. Each member institution shall comply with all applicable criteria of its division, and an institution that fails to do so shall be subject to the enforcement procedures, as well as to possible reclassification. 3.01.4 Assignment to Geographical Areas. Active and conference members are assigned to geographical areas for the purpose of representation on the Management Council, Presidents Council and various committees, as well as to facilitate the work of the Association. Geographical districts and regions are defined in Constitution 4.13. 3.01.5 Termination or Suspension of Membership. All rights and privileges of a member shall cease immediately upon termination or suspension of its membership. 3.02 Definitions and Applications. 3.02.1 Competitive Body. A competitive body is an athletics conference that conducts competition among its member institutions and determines a conference champion in one or more sports. 3.02.2 Legislative Body. A legislative body is an athletics conference that develops and maintains rules and regulations governing the athletics programs and activities of its member institutions. 3.02.3 Membership Categories. 3.02.3.1 Active Member. An active member is a four-year college or university or a two-year upper-level collegiate institution accredited by the appropriate regional accrediting agency and duly elected to active membership under the provisions of this article (see Constitution 3.2.3). Active members have the right to compete in NCAA championships, to vote on legislation and other issues before the Association, and to enjoy other privileges of membership designated in the constitution and bylaws of the Association. (See Constitution 3.2.2.1.1 regarding restrictions on the privileges of for-profit institutions.) (Revised: 10/21/14) 3.02.3.1.1 Athletics Consortium. An athletics consortium consists of one member institution and neighboring member or nonmember institutions (but not more than one nonmember institution), recognized and approved by Membership Committee). The student-athletes of the combined institutions are permitted to compete on the NCAA member institution’s athletics teams, provided they meet the eligibility requirements of the NCAA and the member institution (see Constitution 3.1.2). (Revised: 7/21/15) 3.02.3.1.2 Membership Classification Status. 3.02.3.1.2.1 Probation. Probation is a membership classification status assigned to an institution that indicates that an institution’s membership is not in good standing. The status of probation serves as a warning that certain conditions and obligations of membership have not been satisfied and failure to correct such deficiencies shall result in the institution’s reclassification to the category of restricted membership. During the probationary year, the institution shall be required to complete an athletics program assessment using a form approved by the Membership Committee and shall also be provided with the guiding principles to establish a model Division III athletics program. An institutional staff member(s) may also be required to attend an NCAA Regional Rules Seminar. An institution does not 3.01 General Principles...............................................................7 3.02 Definitions and Applications.........................................7 3.1 Eligibility for Membership..............................................8 3.2 Active Membership...........................................................9 3.3 Member Conference...................................................... 13 3.4 Affiliated Membership .................................................. 16 3.6 Provisional Membership .............................................. 17 3.7 Dues of Members............................................................ 18 2015-16 Division III – January 3NCAA MEMBERSHIP
lose membership benefits as a result of being placed on probation.(Revised: 119/06, 1/8/07 effective 8/1107, for any application of membership penalties probation or restricted membership status/based on the sports sponsorship audit shall be based on information reported for the 2006-07 year and beyond, 4/11/11) 3.02.3.1.2.2 Restricted. Restricted membership is a membership classification status assigned to an institution that fails to comply with the minimum requirements of its division(e.g, sports spon sorship) and has failed during its period of probation to rectify such deficiencies as identified by the Division III Membership Committee or Committee on Infractions. An institution placed in restricted membership shall lose eligibility for a number of membership privileges, including, but not limited to, ampionships eligibility, voting privileges and Division Ill grant and initiative funding while in this status(see Bylaw 20.2.5. 2 1). The institution must comply with all requirement(s) involved with the y sociated penalty period. Failure to comply shall result in immediate forfeiture of membership in the ssociation. If the institution is placed in restricted membership without having served a probationary year, the institution shall be required to complete an athletics program assessment using a form ap proved by the Membership Committee and shall also be provided with the guiding principles to estab- lish a model Division Ill athletics program.(Revised: 1/9/06, 4/20/06, 1/8/07 effective 8/1107, 7/20/10, 10/19/10 effective 8/1/11, 1/15/11 effective 8/1/11) 3.02.3.2 Provisional Member. A provisional member is a four-year college or university or a two-year upper-level collegiate institution accredited by the appropriate regional accrediting agency and that has applied for active membership in the Association. Provisional membership is a prerequisite for active membership in the Association. The institution shall be elected to provisional membership under the provisions of this article(see Constitution 3.6.3). Provisional members shall receive all publications and mailings received by active members in addition to other privileges designated in the constitution and bylaws of the Association(see Bylaw 20.3) (Adopted: 1/11/94 effective 9/2/94, Revised: 5/4/06) 3.02. 3.3 Member Conference. A member conference is a group of at least seven colleges and/or univers ties that conducts competition among its members and determines a conference champion in one(single-sport conference)or more(multisport conference)sports(in which the NCAA conducts championships or for which is responsible for providing playing rules for intercollegiate competition), duly elected to conference membe ship under the provisions of this article(see Constitution 3. 3. 3). A member conference is entitled to all of the privileges of active members except the right to compete in NCAA championships(see Constitution 3. 3. 2).Ad ditional standards related to size and division status are set forth in Constitution 3.3.(Revised: 101/27/05, 1/14/12 effective 8/1/12 for the 2012-13 academic year) 3.02.3.3.1 Single-Sport Conference. A single-sport conference is an NCAA Division III member conference that sponsors only one sport. A conference that sponsors one sport, but sponsors both mens and womens competition in that sport, is not a single-sport conference. (Adopted: 1/14/12 effective 8/1/12 for the 2012-13 academic year) 3.02.3. 4 Affiliated Member. An affiliated member is a coaches or sports association whose function and purpose are directly related to one or more sports in which the NCAA conducts championships or an emerging sport for women, or an association consisting of college/university administrators who have a direct relationship o either the NCAa or the membership, duly elected to affiliated membership under the provisions of this article ee Constitution 3. 4. 3). An affiliated member is entitled to be represented by one nonvoting delegate at any NCAA Convention and enjoys other privileges as designated in the bylaws of the Association(see Constitution 3.4.2).(Revised: 1/11197 efective 8/1/97, 1/15/11 effective 8/1/11) 3.1 Eligibility for Membership 3.1.1 General. Membership is available to colleges, universities, athletics conferences or associations and other groups that are related to intercollegiate athletics that have acceptable academic standards(as defined in Constitution 3.2.3. 2), and that are located in the U.S., its territories or possessions. Such institutions or tions must accept and observe the principles set forth in the constitution and bylaws of the Assocation 3.1.2 Athletics Consortiums. The Membership Committee may approve an athletics consortium involv a member institution and neighboring member or nonmember institutions, but not more than one non- institution's intercollegiate athletics teams, provided the student-athletes satisfy the eligibiin pete on the member to be applied to such consortiums. (Revised: 4/13/10, 7/21/15) 3.1.2.1 General Policy. In general, a consortium shall be approved on the basis of existing academic consid erations with the understanding that there shall be no change in the basic recruitment, enrollment or financial aid policies of the involved ions as a result of such approval. 3.1.2.2 Combining Entire Athletics Programs. The institutions shall combine their entire athletics pro- grams, and the consortium shall not be forme on a spor bv 2015-16 Division /1-January
8 lose membership benefits as a result of being placed on probation. (Revised: 1/9/06, 1/8/07 effective 8/1/07, for any application of membership penalties [probation or restricted membership status] based on the sports sponsorship audit shall be based on information reported for the 2006-07 year and beyond, 4/11/11) 3.02.3.1.2.2 Restricted. Restricted membership is a membership classification status assigned to an institution that fails to comply with the minimum requirements of its division (e.g., sports sponsorship) and has failed during its period of probation to rectify such deficiencies as identified by the Division III Membership Committee or Committee on Infractions. An institution placed in restricted membership shall lose eligibility for a number of membership privileges, including, but not limited to, championships eligibility, voting privileges and Division III grant and initiative funding while in this status (see Bylaw 20.2.5.2.1). The institution must comply with all requirement(s) involved with the associated penalty period. Failure to comply shall result in immediate forfeiture of membership in the Association. If the institution is placed in restricted membership without having served a probationary year, the institution shall be required to complete an athletics program assessment using a form approved by the Membership Committee and shall also be provided with the guiding principles to establish a model Division III athletics program. (Revised: 1/9/06, 4/20/06, 1/8/07 effective 8/1/07, 7/20/10, 10/19/10 effective 8/1/11, 1/15/11 effective 8/1/11) 3.02.3.2 Provisional Member. A provisional member is a four-year college or university or a two-year upper-level collegiate institution accredited by the appropriate regional accrediting agency and that has applied for active membership in the Association. Provisional membership is a prerequisite for active membership in the Association. The institution shall be elected to provisional membership under the provisions of this article (see Constitution 3.6.3). Provisional members shall receive all publications and mailings received by active members in addition to other privileges designated in the constitution and bylaws of the Association (see Bylaw 20.3). (Adopted: 1/11/94 effective 9/2/94, Revised: 5/4/06) 3.02.3.3 Member Conference. A member conference is a group of at least seven colleges and/or universities that conducts competition among its members and determines a conference champion in one (single-sport conference) or more (multisport conference) sports (in which the NCAA conducts championships or for which it is responsible for providing playing rules for intercollegiate competition), duly elected to conference membership under the provisions of this article (see Constitution 3.3.3). A member conference is entitled to all of the privileges of active members except the right to compete in NCAA championships (see Constitution 3.3.2). Additional standards related to size and division status are set forth in Constitution 3.3. (Revised: 10/27/05, 1/14/12 effective 8/1/12 for the 2012-13 academic year.) 3.02.3.3.1 Single-Sport Conference. A single-sport conference is an NCAA Division III member conference that sponsors only one sport. A conference that sponsors one sport, but sponsors both men’s and women’s competition in that sport, is not a single-sport conference. (Adopted: 1/14/12 effective 8/1/12 for the 2012-13 academic year.) 3.02.3.4 Affiliated Member. An affiliated member is a coaches or sports association whose function and purpose are directly related to one or more sports in which the NCAA conducts championships or an emerging sport for women, or an association consisting of college/university administrators who have a direct relationship to either the NCAA or the membership, duly elected to affiliated membership under the provisions of this article (see Constitution 3.4.3). An affiliated member is entitled to be represented by one nonvoting delegate at any NCAA Convention and enjoys other privileges as designated in the bylaws of the Association (see Constitution 3.4.2). (Revised: 1/11/97 effective 8/1/97, 1/15/11 effective 8/1/11) 3.1 Eligibility for Membership. 3.1.1 General. Membership is available to colleges, universities, athletics conferences or associations and other groups that are related to intercollegiate athletics that have acceptable academic standards (as defined in Constitution 3.2.3.2), and that are located in the U.S., its territories or possessions. Such institutions or organizations must accept and observe the principles set forth in the constitution and bylaws of the Assocation. 3.1.2 Athletics Consortiums. The Membership Committee may approve an athletics consortium involving a member institution and neighboring member or nonmember institutions, but not more than one nonmember institution, to permit the student-athletes of the combined institutions to compete on the member institution’s intercollegiate athletics teams, provided the student-athletes satisfy the eligibility requirements of the member institution and the NCAA. The Membership Committee shall develop and publish appropriate criteria to be applied to such consortiums. (Revised: 4/13/10, 7/21/15) 3.1.2.1 General Policy. In general, a consortium shall be approved on the basis of existing academic considerations with the understanding that there shall be no change in the basic recruitment, enrollment or financial aid policies of the involved institutions as a result of such approval. 3.1.2.2 Combining Entire Athletics Programs. The institutions shall combine their entire athletics programs, and the consortium shall not be formed on a sport-by-sport basis. 2015-16 Division III – January
3.1.2.3 Conference Approval. An institution that belongs to an NCAA member conference first shall re- ceive approval of its conference before instituting a consortium for its intercollegiate athletics program. If more than one institution holds such conference membership, all such conferences shall approve the consortium. 3.1.2.4 Eligibility Requirements for Student-Athletes. Participating student-athletes shall meet all eli- gibility requirements of the member institution(s), the athletics conference(s) involved and the NCAA. The member institution(s)shall certify the eligibility of all student-athletes under those rul 3.1.2.5 Financial Assistance to Student-Athletes. Within a consortium: (a) Each institution shall be responsible for the financial assistance awarded to its student-athletes. The fi- nancial arrangement between or among the institutions for the exchange of funds to cover the academic costs of student-athletes who take part in the exchange program shall apply to student-athletes in the same manner as it applies to those students not participating in the intercollegiate athletics program (b) One institution may not provide a scholarship or any other form of financial aid to a student-athlete enrolled in another institution or transmit a scholarship or gift aid to another institution to be used by one or more of its student-athletes and (c) Financial aid limitations as set forth in Bylaw 15 shall be applicable to the consortium as one entity and shall include all countable student-athletes, regardless of the institution in which they are enrolled 3.1.2.6 Length of Approval. NCAA approval shall be for a four-academic-year period, at the end of which the institutions shall submit a report on the program setting forth its effect upon their academic and athletics operations.(Revised: 8/4/89) 3.1.2.7 NCAA Division Membership. The institutions may be members of different NCAA divisions but shall select one division for legislative and competitive purposes 3.1.2.8 NCAA Member Involvement at least one of the institutions shall be a member of the ncaa and ot more than one nonmember institution shall be included 3. 1.2.9 NCAA Membership Application. The institutions shall apply for NCAA membership tium and shall be considered as one member of the association with their combined names included on the official NCAA membership records. (Revised: 12/5/06) 3.1.2.10 Prior Academic Consortium Relationship. The institutions shall have had a prior academic con- 3.1.2.11 Recruitment. It is permissible for one institution to recruit prospective student-athletes with a view to their possible enrollment at another institution in the consortium, provided the individuals qualify for admis ion to that institution and the athletics interests of the member institution are not involved, directly or indi ectly, in influencing the admission or award of financial assistance 3.2 Active Membership. 3.2.1 Eligibility Requirements. 3.2.1.1 Types of Institutions. Active membership is available to four-year colleges and universities and two- year upper-level collegiate institutions, accredited by the appropriate regional accrediting agency, pursuant to Board of Governors policy and duly elected to active membership under the provisions of Constitution 3. 2. 3 ( Revised:8/12,2/10/15) 3.2.1.2 Compliance With Association Rules. The institution shall administer its athletics programs in ac- cordance with the constitution, bylaws and other legislation of the Association uz 3.2.1.3 Standards. The institutions athletics programs shall reflect the establishment and maintenance of igh standards of personal honor, eligibility and fair play 3.2.2 Privileges. 3.2.2.1 Active Members. Active members shall be entitled to all of the privileges of membership under the constitution and bylaws of the Association and all privileges incidental thereto. A copy of NCAA Champion magazine shall be sent to each member of the NCAA 3.2.2.1.1 Exception--For-Profit Institutions. For-profit institutions shall be restricted, as follows (a) A for-profit institution shall not have voting privileges at the annual NCAA Convention or any special convention. The institution shall be entitled to three accredited delegates without voting privileges. Any of the accredited delegates shall be entitled to privileges of the foor and the right to active participation in the business proceedings; (b) Representatives of a for-profit institution shall not be permitted to serve as a voting institution rep- resentative on an NCAA committee; and (c) A for-profit institution shall not receive NCAA grants or financial distributions directly from the NCAA 2015-16 Division /1-January
3NCAA MEMBERSHIP 9 3.1.2.3 Conference Approval. An institution that belongs to an NCAA member conference first shall receive approval of its conference before instituting a consortium for its intercollegiate athletics program. If more than one institution holds such conference membership, all such conferences shall approve the consortium. 3.1.2.4 Eligibility Requirements for Student-Athletes. Participating student-athletes shall meet all eligibility requirements of the member institution(s), the athletics conference(s) involved and the NCAA. The member institution(s) shall certify the eligibility of all student-athletes under those rules. 3.1.2.5 Financial Assistance to Student-Athletes. Within a consortium: (a) Each institution shall be responsible for the financial assistance awarded to its student-athletes. The financial arrangement between or among the institutions for the exchange of funds to cover the academic costs of student-athletes who take part in the exchange program shall apply to student-athletes in the same manner as it applies to those students not participating in the intercollegiate athletics program; (b) One institution may not provide a scholarship or any other form of financial aid to a student-athlete enrolled in another institution or transmit a scholarship or gift aid to another institution to be used by one or more of its student-athletes; and (c) Financial aid limitations as set forth in Bylaw 15 shall be applicable to the consortium as one entity and shall include all countable student-athletes, regardless of the institution in which they are enrolled. 3.1.2.6 Length of Approval. NCAA approval shall be for a four-academic-year period, at the end of which the institutions shall submit a report on the program setting forth its effect upon their academic and athletics operations. (Revised: 8/4/89) 3.1.2.7 NCAA Division Membership. The institutions may be members of different NCAA divisions but shall select one division for legislative and competitive purposes. 3.1.2.8 NCAA Member Involvement. At least one of the institutions shall be a member of the NCAA, and not more than one nonmember institution shall be included. 3.1.2.9 NCAA Membership Application. The institutions shall apply for NCAA membership as a consortium and shall be considered as one member of the Association, with their combined names included on the official NCAA membership records. (Revised: 12/5/06) 3.1.2.10 Prior Academic Consortium Relationship. The institutions shall have had a prior academic consortium relationship. 3.1.2.11 Recruitment. It is permissible for one institution to recruit prospective student-athletes with a view to their possible enrollment at another institution in the consortium, provided the individuals qualify for admission to that institution and the athletics interests of the member institution are not involved, directly or indirectly, in influencing the admission or award of financial assistance. 3.2 Active Membership. 3.2.1 Eligibility Requirements. 3.2.1.1 Types of Institutions. Active membership is available to four-year colleges and universities and twoyear upper-level collegiate institutions, accredited by the appropriate regional accrediting agency, pursuant to Board of Governors policy and duly elected to active membership under the provisions of Constitution 3.2.3. (Revised: 8/7/12, 2/10/15) 3.2.1.2 Compliance With Association Rules. The institution shall administer its athletics programs in accordance with the constitution, bylaws and other legislation of the Association. 3.2.1.3 Standards. The institution’s athletics programs shall reflect the establishment and maintenance of high standards of personal honor, eligibility and fair play. 3.2.2 Privileges. 3.2.2.1 Active Members. Active members shall be entitled to all of the privileges of membership under the constitution and bylaws of the Association and all privileges incidental thereto. A copy of NCAA Champion magazine shall be sent to each member of the NCAA. 3.2.2.1.1 Exception—For-Profit Institutions. For-profit institutions shall be restricted, as follows: (Adopted: 10/21/14) (a) A for-profit institution shall not have voting privileges at the annual NCAA Convention or any special convention. The institution shall be entitled to three accredited delegates without voting privileges. Any of the accredited delegates shall be entitled to privileges of the floor and the right to active participation in the business proceedings; (b) Representatives of a for-profit institution shall not be permitted to serve as a voting institution representative on an NCAA committee; and (c) A for-profit institution shall not receive NCAA grants or financial distributions directly from the NCAA. 2015-16 Division III – January 3NCAA MEMBERSHIP
3.2.2.2 Use of Association s Registered Marks. Active members may use the registered marks of the As- sociation(i. e, the Associations name, logo or other insignia)only in accordance with guidelines established by the board of Governors. (Revised: 2/10/15) 3.2.3 Election Procedures 3.2.3.1 Application. An institution desiring to become an active member of this association shall complete al membership period(see Constitution 3. 6 and Bylaw 20.3). After it has been determined that the institution has met the requirements of provisional membership, its request for active membership will be re- ferred to the Membership Committee for election.(Revised: 1/11/94 effective 9/2/94, 1/14/97 effective 8/1/97 for institutions petitioning for provisional membership on or after 8/1/97, 5/4/06, 7/21/15) 3.2.3.2 Accreditation and Division Classification After it has been determined that the institution meets the Associations requirement of acceptable academic standards(i.e, the institution is regional accrediting agencies), the application shall be considered with regard to requ embership division and sport classification in accordance with Bylaw 20. The application then shall be referred to the Membership 3.2.3.3 Election. The Membership Committee, shall elect the applicant to membership effective the follow ing September 1, the beginning of practice in any sport for that fall term or the first day of classes for that fall term,whichever occurs first. When the vote of the Membership Comittee has been completed, the applicant Revised 7/21/15) 3.2.3.4 Resignation and Re-Election to Membership. If an institution resigns its membership and sub- sequently applies to re-establish its membership, the institution first shall complete a provisional membership period(see Constitution 3. 6 and Bylaw 20.3)before such institution becomes eligible for re-election as an active member. (Revised: 1/11/94 effective 9/2/94, 9/10/04, 5/4/06) 3.2.4 Conditions and obligations of Membership. 3.2.4.1 General. The active members of this Association agree to administer their athletics programs in ac- ordance with the constitution, bylaws and other legislation of the Association 3.2. 4.2 Obligation to Meet Division Criteria. Division membership criteria constitute enforceable legisla tion. Each member institution shall comply with all applicable criteria of its division, and an institution that fails to do so shall be subject to the enforcement procedures, as well as to possible reclassification 3. 2. 4.3 Certification of Eligibility/Declaration of Ineligibility. The active member is responsible for ratifying the eligibility of student-athletes under the terms of the constitution, bylaws or other legislation of the Association before permitting a student-athlete to represent the institution in intercollegiate Procedures for eligibility certification shall be approved by the president or chancellor, who may designate an in- dividual on the institutions staff to administer proper certification of eligibility. The institution shall be obligated mediately to apply all applicable rules and withhold ineligible student-athletes from all tition(see Bylaw 14.9 and see Bylaw 14.11 for procedures regarding restoration of eligibility).(Revised: 10/3/05) 3. 4. 4 Application of Rules to All Recognized Varsity Sports. The constitution, bylaws and other le islation of this Association, unless otherwise specified therein, shall apply to all teams in sports recognized by the member institution sity intercollegiate sports and that involve all-male teams, mixed teams of males and females, and all-female teams. To be recognized as a varsity sport, the following conditions must be met (a) The sport shall be one in which the Association conducts championships, except as provided in Bylaw 20.11.3.4. 1(waiver)or an emerging sport for women per Bylaw 20.02.6;(Revised: 1/11/89, 1/11/94 1/10/95, 10/19/10 effective 8/1/11, applicable to sports added to the list of emerging sports for women on or after 8/1/11) (b) The sport officially shall have been accorded varsity status by the institutions president or chancellor or committee responsible for intercollegiate athletics; (Revised: 10/3/05) (c) The sport is administered by the department of intercollegiate athletics; (d) The eligibility of student-athletes participating in the sport shall be reviewed and certified by a staff mem- ber designated by the institutions president or chancellor or committee responsible for intercollegiate athletics policy; and(Revised: 10/3/05) (e) Qualified participants in the sport shall receive the institutions official varsity awards 3.2. 4.4.1 Intent to Sponsor a Varsity Sport. Once an institution evidences an intent or commitment to sponsor a sport on a varsity level (e. g, official announcement that competition will be conducted on a rsity basis, employment of individuals to coach the varsity team), the institution must begin applying NCAA recruiting regulations to the applicable sport (Adopted: 1/14/97) 3. 2.4.5 Student-Athlete Statement. The active member shall administer annually, on a form prescribed by the Management Council, a signed statement for each student-athlete that provides information prescribed in Bylaw 14.1.3 3. 2.4.5.1 Administrative Requirements. The statement shall be administered individually to each student-athlete by the athletics director or the athletics directors designee before the student-athletes par- 2015-16 Division /1-January
10 3.2.2.2 Use of Association’s Registered Marks. Active members may use the registered marks of the Association (i.e., the Association’s name, logo or other insignia) only in accordance with guidelines established by the Board of Governors. (Revised: 2/10/15) 3.2.3 Election Procedures. 3.2.3.1 Application. An institution desiring to become an active member of this Association shall complete a provisional membership period (see Constitution 3.6 and Bylaw 20.3). After it has been determined that the institution has met the requirements of provisional membership, its request for active membership will be referred to the Membership Committee for election. (Revised: 1/11/94 effective 9/2/94, 1/14/97 effective 8/1/97 for institutions petitioning for provisional membership on or after 8/1/97, 5/4/06, 7/21/15) 3.2.3.2 Accreditation and Division Classification. After it has been determined that the institution meets the Association’s requirement of acceptable academic standards (i.e., the institution is accredited by one of the six regional accrediting agencies), the application shall be considered with regard to requested membership division and sport classification in accordance with Bylaw 20. The application then shall be referred to the Membership Committee for consideration. (Revised: 7/21/15) 3.2.3.3 Election. The Membership Committee, shall elect the applicant to membership effective the following September 1, the beginning of practice in any sport for that fall term or the first day of classes for that fall term, whichever occurs first. When the vote of the Membership Comittee has been completed, the applicant shall be notified. (Adopted: 1/14/02 Revised 7/21/15) 3.2.3.4 Resignation and Re-Election to Membership. If an institution resigns its membership and subsequently applies to re-establish its membership, the institution first shall complete a provisional membership period (see Constitution 3.6 and Bylaw 20.3) before such institution becomes eligible for re-election as an active member. (Revised: 1/11/94 effective 9/2/94, 9/10/04, 5/4/06) 3.2.4 Conditions and Obligations of Membership. 3.2.4.1 General. The active members of this Association agree to administer their athletics programs in accordance with the constitution, bylaws and other legislation of the Association. 3.2.4.2 Obligation to Meet Division Criteria. Division membership criteria constitute enforceable legislation. Each member institution shall comply with all applicable criteria of its division, and an institution that fails to do so shall be subject to the enforcement procedures, as well as to possible reclassification. 3.2.4.3 Certification of Eligibility/Declaration of Ineligibility. The active member is responsible for certifying the eligibility of student-athletes under the terms of the constitution, bylaws or other legislation of the Association before permitting a student-athlete to represent the institution in intercollegiate competition. Procedures for eligibility certification shall be approved by the president or chancellor, who may designate an individual on the institution’s staff to administer proper certification of eligibility. The institution shall be obligated immediately to apply all applicable rules and withhold ineligible student-athletes from all intercollegiate competition (see Bylaw 14.9 and see Bylaw 14.11 for procedures regarding restoration of eligibility). (Revised: 10/3/05) 3.2.4.4 Application of Rules to All Recognized Varsity Sports. The constitution, bylaws and other legislation of this Association, unless otherwise specified therein, shall apply to all teams in sports recognized by the member institution as varsity intercollegiate sports and that involve all-male teams, mixed teams of males and females, and all-female teams. To be recognized as a varsity sport, the following conditions must be met: (a) The sport shall be one in which the Association conducts championships, except as provided in Bylaw 20.11.3.4.1 (waiver) or an emerging sport for women per Bylaw 20.02.6; (Revised: 1/11/89, 1/11/94, 1/10/95, 10/19/10 effective 8/1/11, applicable to sports added to the list of emerging sports for women on or after 8/1/11) (b) The sport officially shall have been accorded varsity status by the institution’s president or chancellor or committee responsible for intercollegiate athletics; (Revised: 10/3/05) (c) The sport is administered by the department of intercollegiate athletics; (d) The eligibility of student-athletes participating in the sport shall be reviewed and certified by a staff member designated by the institution’s president or chancellor or committee responsible for intercollegiate athletics policy; and (Revised: 10/3/05) (e) Qualified participants in the sport shall receive the institution’s official varsity awards. 3.2.4.4.1 Intent to Sponsor a Varsity Sport. Once an institution evidences an intent or commitment to sponsor a sport on a varsity level (e.g., official announcement that competition will be conducted on a varsity basis, employment of individuals to coach the varsity team), the institution must begin applying NCAA recruiting regulations to the applicable sport. (Adopted: 1/14/97) 3.2.4.5 Student-Athlete Statement. The active member shall administer annually, on a form prescribed by the Management Council, a signed statement for each student-athlete that provides information prescribed in Bylaw 14.1.3. 3.2.4.5.1 Administrative Requirements. The statement shall be administered individually to each student-athlete by the athletics director or the athletics director’s designee before the student-athlete’s par- 2015-16 Division III – January