New Division II Interpretation: Timing of Certification of the Fulfillment of Credit-Hour Requirements — Average or Actual Method

On June 19, 2012, the Interpretations Subcommittee of the NCAA Division II Legislation Committee issued an interpretation concerning the certification of a student-athlete’s fulfillment of credit-hour requirements. Specifically, the Subcommittee determined that a certifying institution may apply the averaging method (cumulative total of hours equivalent to an average of at least 12-semester or 12-quarter hours) only at the beginning of the academic year based on the number of credit hours earned by the student-athlete before each fall term. The Subcommittee determined that the actual method (24-semester or 36-quarter hours since the previous fall term or institution’s preceding regular two semesters or three quarters) may be used to certify a student-athlete’s fulfillment of credit-hour requirements for progress-toward-degree standards at the beginning of the academic year or between terms.

This interpretation referenced  NCAA Division II Bylaws 14.1.10 (change in eligibility status) and 14.4.3.1 (fulfillment of credit hour requirements.

In light of this interpretation, the Michael L. Buckner Law Firm recommends institutions’ athletics compliance include the interpretation in the next scheduled rules-education session for the athletics staff and coaches and  departments who interface with athletics regarding student-athlete eligibility.