The NCAA’s new Name, Image, and Likeness (NIL) rules are expanding beyond college campuses. High school and junior college (JUCO) athletes will officially be required to report any NIL deals worth $600 or more as part of their college enrollment process.

This new regulation is part of a broader effort to bring clarity, structure, and fairness to NIL activity before athletes arrive at the NCAA level.

How It Works

All NIL agreements that meet the $600 threshold must be entered into a new digital platform called NIL Go within two weeks of enrollment at a four-year college.

For high school prospects, this includes:

• Any NIL deal agreed to, signed, or paid starting July 1, 2025 or later.
• Reporting all qualifying agreements once they enroll in college.

For JUCO athletes, the same rule applies beginning July 1 or the date they first enroll at a two-year college, whichever comes later.

The NIL Go system will act as a nationwide database that tracks and verifies NIL activity for incoming athletes, creating a standardized process across schools and sports.

What Counts as a “Valid” NIL Deal

To comply, NIL agreements must serve a legitimate business purpose, such as social-media promotion, appearances, or endorsements, and cannot be “pay-for-play.”

In other words, athletes must be compensated for actual marketing or branding work, not simply for committing to a team.

Why It Matters

This new rule gives college programs, compliance departments, and governing bodies a clear record of athletes’ NIL activity before they compete at the collegiate level.

For athletes, it’s an important step in protecting eligibility and staying compliant with future NCAA or conference guidelines.

For parents and coaches, it adds transparency to an area that’s become increasingly complex as NIL opportunities continue to grow.

Key Takeaways

• Starts July 1, 2025: NIL reporting officially required for high school and JUCO athletes.
• $600 threshold: Any deal worth $600 or more must be reported.
• Two-week window: Athletes have 14 days after enrollment to submit information to NIL Go.
• Valid business purpose: No pay-for-play arrangements allowed.