Resource Library

Section 01

NIL RESOURCES

The rules changed significantly in 2025. Start with the official sources — then use the full NIL Resource Hub for deep dives on rules, money, and sport-specific guidance.

NCAA NCAA NIL Hub Official NCAA NIL guidance, rules, and division-specific information. ↗ ncaa.org College Sports Commission CSC NIL Compliance NIL Go reporting, valid business purpose rules, and enforcement framework. ↗ collegesportscommission.org NAIA NAIA NIL Framework NIL guidance specific to NAIA athletes. Separate from NCAA rules. ↗ naia.org Deloitte / CSC NIL Go Clearinghouse Required reporting portal for all DI athletes with third-party NIL deals over $600. ↗ collegesportscommission.org

Sources: National Collegiate Athletic Association (NCAA). “Name, Image and Likeness.” NCAA.org · College Sports Commission. “NIL.” collegesportscommission.org. Free public resources. Accessed April 2026.

State NIL laws vary significantly. Some states provide broader rights than the NCAA framework. Always know what your state permits. It may give you more options than the NCAA minimum.

National Conference of State Legislatures State NIL Law Tracker Comprehensive tracker of every state NIL law. Updated regularly. ↗ ncsl.org Ballotpedia NIL Legislation Database State-by-state NIL legislation with bill text and status. ↗ ballotpedia.org

Sources: National Collegiate Athletic Association (NCAA). “NIL State Laws.” NCAA.org · NCAA NIL Assist. nilassist.ncaa.org. Accessed April 2026.

NIL (Name, Image, Likeness) Money earned from third-party deals — brands, endorsements, social media, appearances. Arranged between you and outside companies. Every division, every sport.

Revenue Sharing Direct payment from the school's athletic department under the House v. NCAA settlement. DI only. Must be a signed contract uploaded to CAPS within 5 business days. Up to $20.5M per school annually in 2025–26.

An NIL evaluation is not a contract When a coach tells you what you "could earn," that is an estimate. Not a signed agreement, not legally binding. Always ask: is this a signed revenue share agreement or an NIL evaluation?

Read repayment clauses Some revenue share agreements require repayment if you transfer or are injured. Always ask before signing what happens if your situation changes.

College Sports Commission Revenue Sharing Framework Official CSC guidance on how revenue sharing works, school opt-in, and athlete agreements. ↗ collegesportscommission.org NCAA NIL Assist Contract Best Practices Sample contract terms, what to look for, and how to protect yourself before signing any NIL or revenue share agreement. ↗ nilassist.ncaa.org NCAA NIL Assist Navigating NIL Contracts Step-by-step guidance on contract terms, intellectual property, deliverables, and red flags. ↗ nilassist.ncaa.org NIL Newsstand — DI Only NIL & Revenue Share Infrastructure Tracker See how DI programs structure their NIL entities — Athletic Department, Collective, External Agency, and GM roles by school. Helpful when researching a program's NIL setup before committing. ↗ nilnewsstand.com

Sources: College Sports Commission. “Revenue Sharing.” collegesportscommission.org · NCAA NIL Assist. “Contract Best Practices.” nilassist.ncaa.org. Free public resources. Accessed April 2026.

The ATHLINKT NIL Resource Hub goes deep — timeline, glossary, division-specific rules, where the money actually comes from, sport-by-sport NIL breakdowns, an education checklist, and a printable sample agreement.

OPEN NIL RESOURCE HUB →

Sources: National Collegiate Athletic Association (NCAA). “Name, Image and Likeness.” NCAA.org. Full NIL Resource Hub available at nil.html on this site. Accessed April 2026.

Section 02

TRANSFER PORTAL

The portal moves fast. These are the official sources you need before you make any decisions. Know your rules, know your windows, know your rights.

NCAA NCAA Transfer Portal Official transfer portal rules, windows, and eligibility requirements. ↗ ncaa.org NCAA Transfer Eligibility Center Check your transfer eligibility status directly through the NCAA. ↗ ncaa.org NAIA NAIA Transfer Rules Transfer eligibility and requirements specific to NAIA institutions. ↗ naia.org NJCAA JUCO Transfer Rules NJCAA transfer eligibility rules for community and junior college athletes. ↗ njcaa.org

Sources: National Collegiate Athletic Association (NCAA). “Want to Transfer?” NCAA.org · NCAA Transfer Eligibility Center. web3.ncaa.org. Free public resources. Accessed April 2026.

Transfer windows are sport-specific and change annually. Always verify current windows directly with the NCAA before making any decisions.

Football Winter window: Dec 9 – Jan 2. Spring window: May 1–15. Players have one free transfer with immediate eligibility.

Men's & Women's Basketball Spring window: April 1 – May 1. All other sports follow general windows. Verify at ncaa.org for current year dates.

All Other Sports One-time transfer rule applies. Athletes may transfer once and receive immediate eligibility without a waiver. Verify sport-specific windows at ncaa.org.

Important Entering the portal does not require you to transfer. However, once entered, your current school may revoke athletic aid. Know your situation before you enter.

NCAA — Always Verify Current Windows Current Transfer Windows Official current-year transfer windows for all sports. ↗ ncaa.org

Sources: National Collegiate Athletic Association (NCAA). “Transfer Portal Windows by Sport.” NCAA.org. Updated January 2026 NCAA Convention. Accessed April 2026.

What it is The NCAA DI Cabinet adopted emergency legislation on April 1, 2026 for all Division I sports. A "ghost transfer" or "blind transfer" is when an athlete leaves their school and joins another without entering the transfer portal. This is now explicitly penalized.

Automatic penalties for programs If a school signs, adds to the roster, or allows athletic participation by a transfer who did not enter the portal: the head coach is suspended for 50% of the season from all coaching, recruiting, and administrative duties, and the school is fined 20% of that sport's budget. Penalties are automatic — no investigation required to trigger them.

Effective date Applies to all DI sports, retroactive to February 25, 2026. There is no spring portal window for football in 2026 — the only football portal window was January 2–16, 2026.

What this means for athletes If you want to transfer at any DI school, you must enter the transfer portal. No coach can add you without it. If they do, they face automatic suspension. This protects your eligibility and puts accountability on programs, not athletes.

DI only This rule applies to NCAA Division I only. NAIA and JUCO have separate transfer rules. See their official sites for current transfer policies.

NCAA.org — Official DI Cabinet: Ghost Transfer Rules Official NCAA announcement — penalties, effective date, and scope for all DI sports. April 1, 2026. ↗ ncaa.org NCAA.org Transfer Portal — How To Enter Official NCAA guide to entering the transfer portal, eligibility requirements, and the notification process. ↗ ncaa.org

Sources: National Collegiate Athletic Association (NCAA). “DI Cabinet Adopts Ghost Transfer Rules.” NCAA.org, April 1, 2026. Accessed April 2026.

Section 03

CAREER & LIFE AFTER SPORT

Every skill you built as an athlete translates. These verified tools help you understand your options, explore careers, and see where other athletes have gone.

U.S. Dept of Labor O*NET Online The nation's largest occupational database. Every career, every skill, every salary range. Free and public. ↗ onetonline.org Bureau of Labor Statistics Occupational Outlook Handbook Real salary data, job demand projections, and what workers actually do. Updated annually. ↗ bls.gov U.S. Dept of Labor CareerOneStop Career exploration, skills assessment, salary finder, and job search tools. Government-funded and free. ↗ careeronestop.org U.S. Dept of Labor My Skills My Future Enter your current skills and see matching career options with salary and demand data. ↗ myskillsmyfuture.org

Sources: U.S. Department of Labor. “My Next Move.” mynextmove.org · U.S. Department of Labor. “CareerOneStop.” careeronestop.org · U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics. “Occupational Outlook Handbook.” bls.gov. Free U.S. government resources. Accessed April 2026.

NCAA NCAA Career Center Career resources built specifically for current and former NCAA student-athletes. ↗ ncaa.org Nonprofit US Olympic & Paralympic Alumni Career transition support for elite athletes. Programs, mentorship, and professional development. ↗ usopc.org U.S. Dept of Labor Apprenticeship.gov Earn while you learn. Paid apprenticeship programs across industries. Athletes thrive in structured environments. ↗ apprenticeship.gov NCAA NCAA Graduate Student Resources Resources for athletes pursuing graduate education, including scholarships and academic support. ↗ grad.ncaa.org

Sources: National Collegiate Athletic Association (NCAA). “Preparing for Your Career.” NCAA.org · U.S. Olympic and Paralympic Committee. “Life After Sport.” usopc.org. Free public resources. Accessed April 2026.

Section 04

MENTAL HEALTH & IDENTITY

The identity shift when sport ends is real. So is the pressure while you're competing. These resources are built for athletes. Not generic wellness content.

Crisis Line — 988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline Call or text 988. Available 24/7. Free, confidential support for anyone in emotional distress.

Crisis Text Line Text HOME to 741741. Free, 24/7, confidential. Text-based crisis support.

NCAA NCAA Mental Health Resources Mental health resources and support built specifically for student-athletes. ↗ ncaa.org Society for Sport & Exercise Sport Psychology Resources Performance psychology, identity transition, and mental performance resources for athletes. ↗ ncaa.org Anxiety & Depression Association College Student Mental Health Anxiety, depression, and stress resources for college students and athletes. ↗ adaa.org Active Minds Mental Health on Campus Student mental health advocacy and campus resources. Find a chapter at your school. ↗ activeminds.org

Sources: National Collegiate Athletic Association (NCAA). “Mental Health Resources.” NCAA.org · U.S. Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration (SAMHSA). “National Helpline.” samhsa.gov. Free public resources. Accessed April 2026.

National Alliance for Eating Disorders Eating Disorder Helpline Call 1-866-662-1235. Free helpline staffed by clinical professionals. Athletes-specific support available. ↗ allianceforeatingdisorders.com NCAA NCAA Nutrition & Performance Athlete nutrition resources including body image, fueling, and performance wellness. ↗ ncaa.org

Sources: Alliance for Eating Disorders Awareness. “Find a Provider.” allianceforeatingdisorders.com · NCAA. “Mental Health Resources.” NCAA.org. Accessed April 2026.

Section 05

FINANCIAL & TAX

NIL income is taxable. Most athletes find out too late. Every resource here is from a verified government or nonprofit source — no financial influencers, no paid promotions.

NIL income is taxable income Whether you receive cash, products, or services. If it has value, the IRS considers it income. You are responsible for reporting it.

Self-employment tax applies If you receive NIL payments as an independent contractor (most do), you owe self-employment tax in addition to income tax. Currently 15.3% on net earnings.

Quarterly estimated payments If you expect to owe more than $1,000 in taxes, the IRS requires quarterly estimated tax payments. Missing these results in penalties.

IRS.gov IRS Student & NIL Tax Guidance Official IRS tax guidance for students including NIL income, self-employment, and filing requirements. ↗ irs.gov IRS.gov Self-Employment Tax Explained How self-employment tax works, what you owe, and how to calculate it. ↗ irs.gov IRS.gov Estimated Tax Payments Quarterly estimated tax payments. When you owe them, how to calculate and pay. ↗ irs.gov IRS.gov — Free IRS Free File Free federal tax filing for eligible filers. If your income is under the threshold — file for free directly through the IRS. ↗ irs.gov

Sources: U.S. Internal Revenue Service (IRS). “Student-Athletes and NIL.” irs.gov · NCAA NIL Assist. “Tax Education.” nilassist.ncaa.org. Free U.S. government and NCAA resources. Accessed April 2026.

CFPB — U.S. Government Consumer Financial Protection Bureau Budgeting, credit, student loans, and financial basics for young adults. Free, unbiased, government-backed. ↗ consumerfinance.gov U.S. Government MyMoney.gov Official U.S. government financial literacy portal. Budgeting tools, savings guides, and financial planning basics. ↗ mymoney.gov USA.gov Financial Assistance & Benefits Government financial programs, benefits, and assistance resources available to college students. ↗ usa.gov NCAA NCAA Financial Wellness Financial wellness resources and education specifically for student-athletes. ↗ ncaa.org

Sources: U.S. Financial Literacy and Education Commission. “MyMoney.gov.” mymoney.gov · U.S. Consumer Financial Protection Bureau (CFPB). cfpb.gov. Free U.S. government resources. Accessed April 2026.

Section 06

ACCESSIBILITY & OPPORTUNITY

ATHLINKT is built for every athlete. That means Deaf and Hard of Hearing athletes, adaptive and Paralympic athletes, first generation students, and international athletes all have a place here. With resources built specifically for them.

DEAF & HARD OF HEARING

Resources for Deaf, Hard of Hearing, and ASL-using athletes in collegiate athletics.

Gallaudet University Gallaudet Athletics The premier Deaf university and athletic program. Resources, community, and pathways. ↗ gallaudet.edu International Deaflympics International athletic competition for Deaf athletes. Pathways beyond college sport. ↗ deaflympics.com National Association of the Deaf NAD — Rights & Resources Legal rights, accommodations, and advocacy resources for Deaf and Hard of Hearing individuals. ↗ nad.org

ADAPTIVE & PARALYMPIC

Resources for athletes with disabilities competing at the collegiate and elite level.

U.S. Olympic & Paralympic Committee US Paralympics Paralympic pathways, athlete development, and classification resources. ↗ usopc.org Nonprofit Disabled Sports USA Adaptive sport programs, resources, and community for athletes with disabilities nationwide. ↗ disabledsportsusa.org NCAA NCAA Disability Resources Eligibility, accommodations, and support resources for student-athletes with disabilities. ↗ ncaa.org

FIRST GENERATION

Resources for first generation college students navigating athletics, academics, and opportunity.

NCAA NCAA First Generation Resources Scholarships, programs, and support specifically for first generation student-athletes. ↗ ncaa.org Nonprofit First Scholars National network supporting first generation college students — mentorship, resources, and community. ↗ firstscholars.org U.S. Government Federal Student Aid FAFSA, grants, loans, and financial aid — the official U.S. government student aid portal. ↗ studentaid.gov

🌍

INTERNATIONAL ATHLETES

Navigating eligibility, visas, NIL, and campus life as an international student-athlete.

NCAA NCAA International Student-Athlete Guide Eligibility, amateurism, and academic requirements for international athletes. ↗ ncaa.org U.S. Dept of Homeland Security Study in the States Official U.S. government resource for international students — visa guidance, student status, and compliance. ↗ studyinthestates.dhs.gov USCIS Student Visa & Work Authorization Official guidance on work authorization, NIL implications, and student visa status for F-1 and J-1 holders. ↗ uscis.gov

Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) Prohibits discrimination against people with disabilities in all areas of public life, including colleges and universities.

Section 504 of the Rehabilitation Act Requires colleges receiving federal funding to provide equal access and accommodations for students with disabilities. This includes student-athletes.

Your Right to Accommodations You have the right to request academic and athletic accommodations. Contact your school's disability services office. And your athletic academic advisor — to understand your options.

U.S. Government ADA.gov — Official ADA Resource Your rights under the Americans with Disabilities Act. Plain language guides, enforcement, and complaint process. ↗ ada.gov U.S. Dept of Education Section 504 — Student Rights Official FAQ on Section 504 rights for students in educational settings including accommodations. ↗ ed.gov

Sources: U.S. Department of Justice. “ADA.gov.” ada.gov · National Collegiate Athletic Association (NCAA). “Membership Directory.” NCAA.org. Free federal and NCAA public resources. Accessed April 2026.

Section 07

TITLE IX

Title IX is a federal civil rights law that prohibits sex-based discrimination in any school or education program receiving federal funding. In athletics, it means equal opportunity — equal access to participation, scholarships, facilities, and support. Every college athlete needs to know their rights.

Current status: The Biden administration's 2024 Title IX regulations were rescinded by the Trump administration in 2025. A 9th Circuit Court challenge remains active. Core Title IX protections remain in effect. Verify current status at TitleIX.gov and ed.gov OCR. Last reviewed: April 2026.

Equal participation opportunity Schools must provide participation opportunities proportional to the student body, or demonstrate a history of expanding opportunities for the underrepresented sex, or fully and effectively accommodate the interests of the underrepresented sex.

Athletic financial assistance Scholarship dollars must be awarded proportional to the ratio of male to female athletes. If 40% of athletes are women, approximately 40% of scholarship money must go to women's sports.

Equal treatment and benefits Equipment, supplies, scheduling, travel, coaching, facilities, tutoring, publicity, and recruitment support must be equivalent. Not necessarily identical. For men's and women's programs.

Protection from retaliation You cannot be retaliated against for filing a Title IX complaint or participating in a Title IX investigation. Retaliation is itself a Title IX violation.

Sexual harassment and assault Title IX also covers sexual harassment, assault, and gender-based discrimination in educational settings. Every school must have a Title IX Coordinator. Find yours.

Sources: U.S. Department of Education. “Title IX.” TitleIX.gov · U.S. Department of Education Office for Civil Rights (OCR). ed.gov/ocr. Federal resources. Accessed April 2026.

U.S. Dept of Education Title IX — Official FAQ Official U.S. government Title IX FAQ covering athletics, sexual harassment, and how to file a complaint. ↗ ed.gov U.S. Government TitleIX.gov The official U.S. government Title IX resource. Your rights, how the law works, and how to get help. ↗ titleix.gov NCAA NCAA Title IX Resources NCAA-specific Title IX resources including athletics equity, gender equity reporting, and institutional compliance. ↗ ncaa.org U.S. Dept of Education — OCR File a Title IX Complaint How to file a complaint with the Office for Civil Rights if you believe your Title IX rights have been violated. ↗ ed.gov Women's Sports Foundation Title IX — Know Your Rights Athlete-focused Title IX rights guide from the Women's Sports Foundation. Practical, clear, and actionable. ↗ womenssportsfoundation.org ACLU Title IX & Gender Equity in Athletics Your legal rights under Title IX in athletic settings — ACLU plain-language guide. ↗ aclu.org

Sources: U.S. Department of Education. “Title IX.” TitleIX.gov · U.S. Department of Education Office for Civil Rights. ed.gov. Free federal resources. Accessed April 2026.

Every college and university that receives federal funding is required by law to designate a Title IX Coordinator. This person is responsible for overseeing the school's compliance with Title IX. Including in athletics.

How to find them Check your school's website under Student Affairs, Human Resources, or Athletics. The coordinator's name and contact info must be publicly posted. If you can't find it. Ask your athletic academic advisor or compliance office.

What they do They investigate complaints, coordinate training, and ensure the school follows Title IX. You can go to them directly. You do not need to go through coaches or athletics staff first.

Confidential reporting options Many schools also have confidential advisors separate from the Title IX Coordinator. Ask what confidential reporting options exist at your school before deciding how to proceed.

U.S. Dept of Education Title IX Coordinator Requirements Federal requirements for Title IX Coordinators. What they must do and how to reach them. ↗ ed.gov