This program examines the evolving legal and regulatory landscape governing student-athlete eligibility, with particular attention to the five-year eligibility period commonly known as the “5-for-5” rule. The program will explore eligibility requirements, medical redshirts and hardship waivers, and the circumstances that may extend or otherwise affect an athlete’s period of competition.
The course will also examine the Protect College Sports Act of 2026 and its proposed federal framework for student-athlete eligibility, including its five-calendar-year eligibility period, specified exceptions, and potential impact on existing NCAA eligibility rules and legal challenges.
Through examination of federal and state court decisions, recent eligibility disputes, and emerging federal legislation, the course will analyze legal challenges brought by student-athletes, the arguments and remedies available to athletes seeking additional eligibility, and the competing compliance and institutional concerns facing colleges and universities. Attendees will gain a practical understanding of how eligibility rules intersect with contract, antitrust, administrative, and other evolving areas of law in collegiate athletics.
