Thinking about reclassifying to give yourself a better shot in your sport? Some families are exploring that option these days. Whether it’s to get stronger, improve grades, or boost recruiting opportunities, reclassifying has become a popular move among middle and high school athletes.
Before you make the call to reclass, it’s important to understand what reclassifying actually involves, how it could impact your future, and whether it truly makes sense for your goals, both on the field and in the classroom.
What Does Reclassifying Mean in High School?
Reclassifying is when a student-athlete changes their expected high school graduation year, most often by repeating a grade, like eighth . The goal is to delay graduation and create more time for both athletic and academic development. Student-athletes can also consider taking a post-grad year for the same reasons.
Why Student-Athletes Consider Reclassifying
While some students reclassify to graduate early, it’s far more common for athletes to reclassify down to give themselves an extra year to grow, train, and get noticed by college coaches.
For younger athletes, especially, it can also be about maturity, giving them a chance to gain confidence before stepping into a more competitive environment.
Reclassification is most common in sports where size, strength, and exposure make a noticeable difference in recruiting, such as football, basketball, and hockey. However, athletes across all sports are now exploring this option.
It’s important to note that reclassification happens before college. It’s not the same thing as a redshirt year in college, which comes after enrollment and involves sitting out a season while maintaining academic progress and eligibility.
How Reclassifying Can Affect the College Recruiting Process
Reclassifying can change the course of a student-athlete’s entire recruiting process. That additional year can mean more training, more playing time, and more opportunities to compete at high-level showcases or events where college coaches are watching.
At the same time, it means you’ll now be part of a different recruiting class than the one you started with. This can be a double-edged sword.
On one hand, it might increase your visibility if you’re more physically developed than your new peers.
On the other hand, it may require you to rebuild momentum with any coaches who were previously tracking you in your original class. Some of those coaches may have already filled roster spots or shifted their recruiting focus.
How Reclassing Impacts NCAA Eligibility
Regarding eligibility, what matters most is when you officially start ninth grade on a full-time basis. According to NCAA rules, that’s the moment your NCAA eligibility clock starts.
From there, you have four consecutive academic years, or eight semesters, to complete 16 core courses and meet the academic standards required to compete at the Division I or II level. That timeline doesn’t reset if you reclassify.
Understanding the Rules: NCAA, NAIA, and NJCAA
Each collegiate athletic association has its own eligibility standards that reclassified athletes must follow. Understanding these rules is crucial before making any decisions about reclassifying in high school.
NCAA Rules on Reclassifying in High School
For NCAA Division I and II schools, eligibility is tightly linked to the start of ninth grade. From that moment, student-athletes must complete their core coursework within the eight-semester limit and meet GPA and standardized test score minimums.
Delaying graduation does not automatically grant you extra time unless very specific circumstances apply.
Amateurism is another important component. Student-athletes must not compete in events or with teams that would jeopardize their amateur status. Click here for an overview of what qualifies as amateur participation.
NAIA Reclass Rules
The NAIA offers more flexibility. Eligibility is based on the student’s high school graduation date and whether they have used any of their seasons of competition. As long as a student-athlete maintains amateur status and meets academic requirements, reclassifying does not typically create eligibility problems.
NJCAA Reclassing Rules
The NJCAA, which includes most junior colleges, also allows reclassified athletes to compete as long as they meet academic and amateurism standards. However, it’s still important to consult with your specific school and program to ensure you are eligible.
How to Reclass: A Step-by-Step Process
Reclassifying as a student-athlete takes early planning, careful coordination, and a strong understanding of both academic and athletic requirements. Here’s how to do it right:
- Start the conversation early
Start by talking it through with your coaches, your family, and your school. These talks should happen early, ideally before you start ninth grade, since that’s when your NCAA eligibility clock begins. The earlier you start planning, the more options you’ll have.
- Understand the school policies on reclassifying
Not all schools allow reclassification, and many public school districts have clear rules against repeating a grade for athletic purposes. On the other hand, private and prep schools offer more flexibility and are often familiar with how reclassification works for student-athletes.
- Create a compliant academic plan
Once you’ve confirmed that reclassification is possible, take time to fully map out your academic plan. It’s important that your core courses align with NCAA eligibility requirements. The NCAA will evaluate your transcript based on when you started ninth grade, so you must plan carefully to complete all required coursework within the allowed timeframe.
- Keep college coaches informed
Finally, make sure you keep college coaches in the loop. Let coaches know about your decision to reclassify, why you’re doing it, and how it fits into your long-term goals. Be transparent about your new timeline and update your NCSA recruiting profile to reflect your revised graduation year.
Is Reclassing Right for You? Key Considerations
Reclassifying can be a smart move for some athletes, but it’s not a decision to take lightly. In the right situation, it can give you more time to grow, improve in the classroom, and get noticed by college coaches. That extra year might help you develop physically, build confidence, or gain valuable experience, but it also comes with trade-offs.
Reclassifying can delay your graduation, increase the cost of schooling (especially at private or prep schools), and limit your eligibility if not managed carefully under NCAA rules.
You may also face social challenges from repeating a grade or graduating later than your peers, which can impact motivation or team dynamics.
And in some cases, reclassifying may not offer the competitive edge families hope for if it’s not paired with genuine athletic or academic improvement.
Before making any moves, take a step back and look at the big picture. Talk it over with your family. Get input from your coaches and academic advisors. Ask yourself whether this decision lines up with where you want to go, not just as an athlete, but as a student and as a person.
If you decide to move forward, or if you’re still weighing your options, know that you don’t have to figure it all out on your own.
Start with a free recruiting assessment from an NCSA recruiting expert.
FAQS ABout Reclassifying
Can you reclass in high school?
Yes, you can reclass in high school, but it depends on your school district’s policies. Public schools often have strict rules, while private and prep schools typically offer more flexibility.
What is the best time to reclassify as a student-athlete?
Most athletes choose to reclassify before starting ninth grade. This timing provides the most flexibility with NCAA eligibility rules and avoids complications related to completing core academic requirements within the required timeframe.
Can you reclassify in high school as a senior?
Yes, but it’s rare. Reclassifying as a senior is difficult due to graduation requirements and NCAA rules. Most reclassify earlier in high school. Seniors looking to improve their academic or athletic resumes can consider a postgrad year or a gap year at a place like IMG Academy, which offers programs designed for student-athletes who are looking for an opportunity to continue their academic development while enhancing their athletic and personal growth.
Will reclassifying impact my NCAA eligibility?
Yes. The NCAA tracks your eligibility based on when you first enroll full-time in ninth grade. From that point, you have four consecutive academic years to meet your eligibility requirements, regardless of your graduation year.
Do college coaches look favorably on reclassified athletes?
It depends on the situation. Some coaches value the added maturity and development that reclassified athletes bring. Others may question whether the decision was made primarily to gain a physical edge. Open communication and performance are key to making a positive impression.
Is reclassifying right for everyone?
No. Reclassifying can be beneficial, but it isn’t a universal solution. It may not be necessary or effective for every athlete. Consider the full academic, athletic, social, and financial impact before making your decision.