How NIL Works at Different Schools: What Student-Athletes Need to Know
- Rise Ready Academy
- Jul 6
- 3 min read
Not all NIL opportunities are created equal. Here’s how to navigate the differences.
Ever since the NCAA approved Name, Image, and Likeness (NIL) compensation, schools across the country have been building their own systems to support student-athletes. While the NCAA provides general guidelines, most of the day-to-day rules, resources, and opportunities depend on where you go to school.
In other words, NIL is not the same everywhere.
This post will help you understand the key differences in how NIL works at various colleges and universities so you can make smarter decisions—whether you're planning to commit, transfer, or just want to maximize your current experience.
1. Division I vs. Division II and III
Division I schools usually have the most robust NIL infrastructure. Many offer branding support, content creation resources, and even partnerships with NIL-focused platforms like Opendorse, INFLCR, or MOGL.
Division II and III schools are catching up. Some offer educational workshops and resources, but athletes may need to be more proactive and independent in building their brand and finding deals.
Regardless of division, every NCAA athlete has NIL rights. The difference is in the support systems available.
2. School Resources and NIL Programs
Some schools have built full-scale NIL departments or third-party partnerships to help athletes:
Review and disclose deals
Connect with brands
Build media kits
Learn about contracts and taxes
Create content or access professional photography
For example, schools like the University of Alabama, LSU, and Ohio State have dedicated NIL teams or collectives that offer ongoing support. Smaller schools may not have these resources, but they might offer one-on-one support through compliance offices or business schools.
Before choosing or transferring to a school, ask:
Do they have an NIL coordinator or department?
Do they offer social media training or branding workshops?
Are there NIL collectives or alumni networks supporting athletes?
3. State Laws Make a Difference
Because NIL laws vary by state, schools in different regions follow different rules.
For example:
Some states prohibit schools from being involved in deal negotiations, while others allow more active participation.
Some states require disclosures to be filed with the state, not just the school.
Athletes in states with fewer restrictions may have more flexibility in how and when they can monetize.
Always check your state’s NIL legislation. What’s legal at one school could be a violation at another.
4. Private vs. Public Schools
Public schools are typically bound by state NIL laws, which may limit their involvement in athlete deals.
Private schools may have more flexibility and can sometimes tailor NIL support more creatively within NCAA guidelines.
Regardless of the institution type, the key is transparency and compliance.
5. What You’re Responsible For (No Matter Where You Go)
Regardless of the school or division, you are always responsible for:
Reporting NIL deals to your school (and possibly your state)
Avoiding pay-for-play violations or inducements
Protecting your eligibility by reviewing contracts carefully
Maintaining your academic and athletic performance
No NIL opportunity is worth risking your scholarship or eligibility.
Final Thoughts
Every school has a different NIL landscape. What matters most is how well you understand your own rights, responsibilities, and the tools available to help you succeed.
Rise Ready Academy is here to help you build a personal brand that works—no matter your division, state, or school size.
Ready to Take the Next Step?
→ Download our NIL School Comparison Checklist
→ Watch our YouTube video: Choosing the Right School for Your NIL Goals
→ Ask your coach or compliance officer what NIL support your school provides
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