NCAA Just Approved a Major Eligibility Change That Could End the Era of 25-Year-Old College Athletes

The NCAA Division I Cabinet unanimously approved what it calls an "age-based eligibility model," marking one of the biggest changes to college sports in decades. According to The Athletic, the rule is expected to take effect for athletes who still have eligibility remaining after the 2025-26 academic year.

Instead of the current system that allows athletes five years to play four seasons, eligible athletes will now receive five full seasons of competition. Their eligibility clock will begin when they first enroll in college or at the start of the academic year following their 19th birthday, whichever comes first, as reported by The Athletic.

Why the NCAA Decided the Old Eligibility System Had to Change

According to The Athletic, NCAA leaders say the move is intended to stop athletes from extending their careers well beyond five years through redshirts, injury waivers, COVID-era exemptions, and recent legal challenges.

Under the new rules, eligibility waivers will largely disappear. Limited exceptions will remain for pregnancy, official religious missions, and active-duty military service, provided the athlete does not compete during that time.

Illinois athletic director and Division I Cabinet chair Josh Whitman told The Athletic the new system is simpler for schools and gives many athletes an extra season to play.

What College Athletes Should Know About the New NCAA Eligibility Rules

If you're a current or future Division I athlete, these changes could affect your college career:

• Know when your five-year eligibility clock starts.
• Submit any hardship or medical waiver requests by July 31.
• Fall 2026 recruits may use whichever rule benefits them most.
• Athletes whose eligibility ended in spring 2026 may still pursue ongoing legal challenges, but the NCAA says it won't change the rule.

The New NCAA Rule Is Already Facing Legal Challenges

Not everyone agrees with the decision.

According to The Athletic, attorney Darren Heitner confirmed multiple lawsuits are expected from athletes whose eligibility expired after the 2025-26 season but who won't qualify under the new rules. Several basketball players have already joined legal complaints seeking another year of eligibility.

As reported by ESPN, the NCAA said it chose not to apply the new eligibility rule retroactively because doing so would disrupt roster spots and playing opportunities for current athletes and incoming freshmen.

Related: Here's What to Know About New U.S. Dietary Guidelines That Take Aim at Processed Foods

This story was originally published by Men's Journal on Jun 28, 2026, where it first appeared in the News section. Add Men's Journal as a Preferred Source by clicking here.

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This story was originally published June 27, 2026 at 6:32 PM.