When you register for the SAT or ACT, use the NCAA Eligibility Center code of 9999 so your scores are sent directly to the Eligibility Center from the testing agency. Test scores on transcripts will not be used in your academic certification.
A combined SAT score is calculated by adding reading and math subscores. An ACT sum score is calculated by adding English, math, reading and science subscores. You may take the SAT or ACT an unlimited number of times before you enroll full-time in college. If you take either test more than once, the best sub score from different tests are used to meet initial eligibility requirements.
For more information on initial-eligibility requirements, review the resources below:
- Division I Initial-Eligibility Quick Reference Sheet
- Division II Initial-Eligibility Quick Reference Sheet
- International Initial-Eligibility Flyer
Division I Test Score Requirements
Division I uses a sliding scale to match SAT/ACT scores and core-course grade-point averages to determine eligibility. The sliding scale balances your test score with your GPA. If you have a low test score, you need a higher GPA to be eligible. If you have a low GPA, you need a higher test score to be eligible.
Learn more about Division I academic requirements
Division II Test Score Requirements
If you enroll full-time at a Division II school, you must meet all academic requirements and earn an SAT or ACT score matching your core-course GPA on the Division II sliding scale to be eligible to compete. The sliding scale will balance your test score with your GPA. If you have a low test score, you need a higher GPA to be eligible. If you have a low GPA, you need a higher test score to be eligible.
Learn more about Division II academic requirements
If you enroll full-time at a Division II school, and you have not met all the Division II academic requirements, you may not compete in your first year. If you meet the requirements to be a partial qualifier, you may practice and receive an athletics scholarship in your first year. To be a partial qualifier, you must graduate high school and meet ALL the following requirements:
- Complete 16 core courses.
- Earn at least a 2.2 GPA in your core courses.
- Earn an SAT or ACT score matching your core-course GPA on the Division II sliding scale.