What is the "National Letter of Intent" (NLI)?

The National Letter of Intent (NLI) is a binding agreement that establishes a commitment between a prospective student-athlete and a college or university regarding athletic financial aid. When a student-athlete signs the NLI, they agree to attend the institution for at least one academic year in exchange for a scholarship that covers their education-related expenses. This process is critical as it helps schools secure their recruits and provides student-athletes with a guaranteed financial package.

The importance of the NLI lies in its formal nature, which eliminates ambiguities often associated with verbal agreements or informal commitments. As such, it holds significant implications for both the student-athlete and the college, ensuring clarity in the expectations around athletic participation and financial support.