V530.13 VCSU Student-Athlete Policy for The NAIA Senior Exception
ACADEMICS
To be eligible to compete, NAIA requires students to be enrolled in a minimum of 12 credits each term. However, based on NAIA’s Bylaw Article V, Section C, Item 3 Senior Exception to 12-Hour Enrollment Rule a student who will complete requirements for graduation within 10 semesters, 15 quarters, 12 trimesters or less may retain eligibility during the last term of attendance of the senior year by enrolling in fewer than 12 credits as long as they are taking at least ¾ of those credits at their home campus (VCSU). Official verification will be completed by the Registrar confirming that the student has completed all other academic requirements for graduation except for the currently enrolled credits.
ATHLETIC SCHOLARSHIPS, WAIVERS, AND FINANCIAL AID
- The athletic scholarship for any student-athlete using the senior exception will not exceed the total charges for tuition and fees plus an additional maximum allowance of $3,000 for housing and personal expenses during that semester.
- Housing expenses apply to both on and off campus expenses.
- Athletic waivers for any student-athlete using the senior exception will not exceed the total charges for tuition.
- Student-athletes who enroll in six or more credits will be eligible to receive additional aid as determined by federal financial aid policy.
NOTE: Student-athletes may file an appeal against these policies by contacting the Financial Aid Director. The Financial Aid Committee will process the appeal.
Sponsor: Vice President for Student Affairs
Effective: October 2017
Revised: Spring 2022
Revised: Spring 2024