NCAA Recruiting Rules & Contact Calendar
Understand when college coaches can reach out, how recruiting calendars work, and what players can do to stay prepared.
How recruiting rules work
NCAA recruiting rules determine when college coaches can communicate with players, meet in person, and host recruiting visits. Rules vary by division and type of interaction.
Key Division I recruiting milestones
These recurring dates are based on a player's year in high school.
June 15
Division I coaches may generally begin recruiting calls, texts, emails, direct messages, and verbal offers.
August 1
Division I recruiting visits and greater involvement from a school's athletics department may generally begin.
Plan ahead
Have your player profile, highlight video, academic information, and school list ready before these milestones arrive.
Recruiting rules by division
Division I
Coach initiated recruiting communication and recruiting visits follow the milestones above. Dead periods may temporarily restrict in person contact.
Division II
Coaches generally have more flexibility to call, text, and email players. Off campus contact and official visits may begin after the applicable sophomore year recruiting milestone.
Division III
Coach communication is generally more flexible. Off campus contact typically begins after sophomore year, and official visits may begin January 1 of junior year. Athletics scholarships are not offered.
NAIA and junior college
These programs follow their own recruiting and eligibility rules and often have greater communication flexibility. Ask each school about its process.
Recruiting periods explained
Contact period
Coaches may generally communicate with and meet prospective players.
Evaluation period
Coaches may observe players competing, but some recruiting conversations may be restricted.
Quiet period
In person recruiting contact is generally limited to the college campus.
Dead period
In person contact and evaluations are generally prohibited, although calls or electronic communication may still be allowed.
Check the current calendar
Dead periods and quiet periods can change each year and may differ between men's and women's soccer. Confirm the current calendar before scheduling an in person visit.
What players can do now
- Research schools based on academics, soccer fit, location, cost, and team culture.
- Create a player profile and concise highlight video.
- Email coaches with your graduation year, position, club team, and academic information.
- Share upcoming game, showcase, or tournament schedules.
- Ask your FIRST XI coach for an honest evaluation and guidance.
- Stay on track with coursework and NCAA Eligibility Center requirements.
Remember
Coaches may review video, academics, and performance before they are allowed to respond directly.
Official and unofficial visits
Unofficial visit
Generally paid for by the player or family. Coach involvement may still depend on recruiting rules.
Official visit
The college may cover certain permitted expenses. Additional eligibility or paperwork requirements may apply.
Before booking, confirm the timing, coach involvement, expenses, and required documentation.
For questions to ask coaches and help comparing opportunities, see Campus Visits and Offer Evaluation.
Verbal offers and signing
A verbal offer is not a signed agreement. Ask what is being offered, request details in writing, and review any academic, financial, or roster conditions.
Frequently asked questions
Can I contact a coach before they can contact me?
Yes. Players can introduce themselves and share their information, although the coach may not be allowed to respond yet.
Who is responsible for following recruiting rules?
College coaches are responsible for compliance. Families should understand the basics and ask questions when planning visits or discussing offers.
Where can we confirm the current rules?
Use the NCAA's official recruiting resources or contact the college's athletics compliance office.
Check the current NCAA recruiting rules
Review official recruiting information and guidance for prospective student athletes.
Visit NCAA Recruiting Resources →Last reviewed: August 22, 2026. Rules and deadlines can change; confirm current requirements with the college or official organization.