Signing the NLI (National Letter of Intent) is a big step in the recruiting process. There are a few things you need to be aware of before you sign your NLI.

  • Keep in mind the NLI is an agreement between the student athlete and the institution, not with the coach. So if a coach leaves you are still obligated to attend the institution unless you are granted a release.
  • The NLI is an agreement that you are receiving athletic scholarship. If you are only receiving academic scholarship or paying your own tuition then you cannot sign the NLI.
  • NLI’s are only signed once with an institution. You will be notified annually if your athletic aid is being renewed, unless extenuating circumstances occur your aid will be renewed or possibly increased.
  • All other institutions are obligated to cease recruitment of an athlete once the NLI is signed and the athlete should notify all other institutions of their decision.
  • Signing your NLI does not automatically guarantee admission into the institution, you must still apply, get accepted and be cleared through the Eligibility Center.

Here is a link to the NLI homepage where you can find all the answers to your questions.