09/07/2026
Verbal v Signed Commitment
A verbal commitment, which can happen after September 1st of your junior year, is when your student verbally agrees to a roster spot for a college before they sign for athletic aid. “Verbal offers” and “verbal commitments” are very exciting, but they aren’t guaranteed, and the commitment is not binding to the institution or you. A verbal commitment does not guarantee an athletic scholarship, and while uncommon, could be rescinded by the college. The main reasons a verbal commitment may not be honored is if there is a coach change, if the student-athlete’s grades drop, or there is some kind of athlete misconduct. A verbal commitment applies to all NCAA divisions, NAIA and JUCO.
In contrast, the Athletic Aid Agreement is a legally binding document for division 1 and 2 schools which outlines the full financial package: athletic scholarships, academic scholarships, merit aid, and need-based aid. Scholarships are typically awarded on an annual basis and are subject to various factors.
The signing period generally starts in November, and there will be specific deadlines and instructions which should be communicated by the coach and/or the compliance office. Before you sign this agreement you should be 100% sure this is the school and the program for you, and you should be accepted academically into the institution! Once the agreement is signed you are fully committed to the program and the school and your recruiting journey ends.
D3 and athletes NOT on athletic scholarships do not sign a financial agreement, however some colleges may provide a celebratory letter for the athlete to sign for school ceremonies.
Good luck!
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