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Student-athletes face unique challenges balancing academics and athletics, but for those with disabilities, the road can be even tougher. The NCAA recognizes these challenges and offers the Education Impacting Disability (EID) designation to ensure student-athletes with disabilities receive the support they need while maintaining eligibility for collegiate sports.
What is the NCAA Education Impacting Disability (EID) Designation?
An Education Impacting Disability (EID) is a recognized impairment that significantly affects a student’s academic performance and requires accommodations. Common examples include:
Learning disabilities or disorders
Attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD)
Mental health conditions
Autism spectrum disorder
Chronic medical conditions
Deaf or hard-of-hearing status
This designation ensures tailored support for student-athletes with these challenges, enabling them to succeed in the classroom and on the field.
How Does an EID Impact Academic Eligibility?
An EID designation does not lower the standards for NCAA eligibility but ensures equitable access to educational resources. Accommodations may include extended exam time, access to assistive technology, or specialized tutoring—tools that help level the playing field for student-athletes with disabilities.
For Division I (DI) and Division II (DII) athletes, specific accommodations are available:
DI: Up to three additional NCAA-approved core courses may be taken after high school graduation but before full-time college enrollment, provided the student graduates on time (within four years of starting ninth grade).
DII: Students may take an unlimited number of core courses within the same timeframe.
Both DI & DII: Schools must use NCAA-approved courses designed for students with EIDs.
Applying for an EID: Steps for Success
To apply for an EID designation, student-athletes must document their disability and request accommodations through the NCAA Eligibility Center. Here’s what you need to prepare:
NCAA EID Cover Sheet
NCAA ID Number: Obtain this by completing your NCAA Eligibility Center registration.
Documentation: Submit signed reports of your diagnosis and recommendations from a qualified professional, such as a doctor or psychologist.
Individualized Education Plan (IEP) or 504 Plan: If unavailable, provide school documentation detailing accommodations or the lack thereof.
Signed Buckley Statement: Authorize specific individuals, such as a parent or guardian, to discuss your case with the NCAA.
Submit all materials via email to ec-processing@ncaa.org, fax them to 317-968-5100, or mail them to:
NCAA Eligibility Center
Disability Services
P.O. Box 7110
Indianapolis, IN 46207-7110
Once approved, you’ll receive written confirmation and details about the accommodations available to support your success.
Final Thoughts
The NCAA EID designation provides student-athletes with disabilities an avenue to access essential academic accommodations without jeopardizing athletic eligibility. Taking the initiative to apply can make a significant difference in balancing academic and athletic aspirations.
For more information, visit the NCAA Eligibility Center or consult with your high school’s academic advisor.