| Approved by: | President | |
| History: | Issued -- October 4, 2011 | |
| Revised -- | ||
| Last Reviewed -- July 15, 2019 | ||
| Additional References: | ||
| Related Policies: | Code of Student Conduct; Grades and Academic Standing: Undergraduate; Grades and Academic Standing: Graduate | |
| Responsible Official: | Provost tel. (202) 319-5244 | |
I. Introduction
The Catholic University of America offers a wide variety of opportunities to participate in physical activities, including varsity athletic teams competing at the NCAA Division III level. Membership on varsity teams is competitive, determined by the coaches in accordance with NCAA and University rules, and is not considered a guaranteed right of students. Academic success, sportsmanship, and adherence to the Code of Student Conduct are essential components of students' ability to participate in University-sponsored athletic programs.
II. Academic Eligibility Criteria for Participation in Varsity Athletics
In order to be eligible to practice and compete on a varsity athletic team, students must meet the following requirements.
- Students must be enrolled in not less than 12 credits leading toward a baccalaureate degree, unless they qualify for an NCAA exception to this requirement (i.e., graduate school enrollment). Any exceptions would need to be approved and certified by the athletic department compliance office prior to participation.
- Students must be in "good academic standing" and maintain "satisfactory progress" as defined by the University. To see University policies for "good academic standing" and "satisfactory progress", please see Grades and Academic Standing: Undergraduate.
- Students who are enrolled in an undergraduate program within the Metropolitan School of Professional Studies (MSPS) are not eligible to compete in varsity athletic programs. Students who are enrolled in a graduate program through MSPS are eligible to participate in intercollegiate athletics, provided that they meet all other eligibility criteria for participation as a graduate student.
- Students must be in compliance with all other applicable University, NCAA, and conference guidelines, as determined by the Department of Athletics and other appropriate University officials.