March 2, 2011
Staff Interpretation
The academic and membership affairs staff confirmed that prior to August 1 of a prospective student-athlete's senior year in high school, it is not permissible for an institution to indirectly (e.g., through relatives, friends, high school, preparatory school, two-year college coach or any other individual responsible for teaching or directing an activity in which a prospective student-athlete is involved) provide a written offer of athletically related financial aid or indicate in writing to the prospective student-athlete that an athletically related grant-in aid will be offered by the institution.
[References: NCAA Divisions I Bylaws 13.4.1 (recruiting materials); 13.9 (letter-of-intent programs, financial aid agreements); and 13.9.2.2 (written offer of aid before signing date)]
Please remember that Bylaw 13.9.2.2 became effective on August 1, 2010. What the bylaw states is that you may not provide a PSA with a written offer (or guarantee) of financial aid prior to August 1st of that students Senior year in high school. This interpretation now clarifies that you are not allowed to provide a written offer of aid to anyone associated with the PSA in order to circumvent the rules prior to that August 1st date.
