November marks the start of prospective student-athletes making initial commitments to collegiate athletic programs in the U.S. The culmination of the recruiting process takes place when a prospect signs the National Letter of Intent (NLI) with their chosen institution. By signing the NLI, the prospect becomes officially committed to the institution they sign with.
For many teams at the University of Miami, November marks the first point in a prospective student-athlete’s career that he or she is able to sign an NLI. During the NLI signing period, the University of Miami receives letters from prospective student-athletes who are committing to participate in intercollegiate athletics at UM.
To gain a better understanding of the process, here are some frequently asked questions about a prospect who has signed a letter of intent with the University.
How long is a prospective student-athlete considered a prospect?
A prospective student-athlete remains a prospect even after signing an NLI or financial aid agreement to attend the University of Miami. The prospect, the University, and boosters are all governed by the recruiting regulations until the prospect reports for regular season practice, attends their first day of classes in any regular term, or attends an institutional orientation session that is open to all incoming students within 14 calendar days prior to the start of classes (i.e., fall or spring).
Is it permissible for boosters to contact a prospect who has signed an NLI?
Boosters may not engage in on- or off-campus contact, including cards, email, texts, or telephone calls, with prospects or their parents.
Is it permissible for a booster to arrange summer housing for a prospect who has signed an NLI?
NCAA rules prohibit boosters from making housing arrangements for student-athletes or prospects, even if they have signed an NLI to attend the University of Miami. For example, it is not permissible to offer reduced-rate rental opportunities to prospects.
Is it permissible for a booster to assist a prospect who has signed an NLI with precollege expenses?
Neither the University of Miami nor its boosters are permitted to offer, provide, or arrange financial assistance to cover a prospect’s expenses for any period prior to their enrollment. This applies even to those prospects who have signed an NLI or financial aid agreement to attend the University of Miami.
For questions or more information, contact UM athletics at athleticscompliance@miami.edu or 305-284-2692.
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