Which document binds a prospective student-athlete to a specific NCAA institution for one academic year?

The National Letter of Intent (NLI) is the document that binds a prospective student-athlete to a specific NCAA institution for one academic year. When a student-athlete signs the NLI, they commit to attending that institution and participating in their athletics program for at least one academic year, which is a crucial component of NCAA recruiting. This commitment not only secures the scholarship offer from the institution but also establishes the student-athlete's intention to enroll and compete.

The NLI is recognized and used by the NCAA to provide clarity and accountability in the recruitment process, ensuring that both the institution and the athlete are committed to the terms laid out in the letter. This level of commitment is essential in maintaining the integrity of the athletics program and the recruitment process as a whole.