Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
On July 1, 2021 a new NCAA policy went into effect and allows student athletes from all three divisions to monetize their name, image, and likeness - often referred to as NIL. Athletes can now accept endorsements from brands, monetize their social media presences, and work with professional firms to coordinate deals. The NCAA guidance allows students to engage in NIL activities so long as they are “consistent with the law of the state where the school is located” and allows students in states without NIL laws to participate without breaking NCAA rules.
The new NCAA guidance also specifies that “colleges and universities are responsible for determining whether those activities are consistent with state law.” If you want further guidance on NIL in your state, reach out to the compliance department at your university. To learn more about NCAA NIL policies and resources click here.
What is NBC Sports Athlete Direct?
NBC Sports Athlete Direct is a NIL community that connects student-athletes and advertisers. NBC Sports Athlete Direct enables student-athletes to earn money from their name, image and likeness.
How does the NIL Platform work?
Advertisers will make NIL offers available to college student-athletes through NBC Sports Athlete Direct. College student-athletes have the option to participate in the NIL offer. Those who opt-in to participate and complete the advertiser’s campaign requirements will receive payment based on a predetermined rate.
How do athletes sign up for the NIL Platform?
Student-athletes can sign up here. We will notify you when NIL opportunities are available.
Who can sign up for NIL opportunities available through NBC Sports Athlete Direct?
Student-athletes at NCAA member schools can sign up for NIL opportunities through NBC Sports Athlete Direct.
If I’m under 18 and a student-athlete, can I sign up for NIL opportunities through NBC Sports Athlete Direct?
No. Unfortunately, you are not eligible at this time.
If I’m an international student and a student-athlete, can I sign up for NIL opportunities through NBC Sports Athlete Direct?
No. Unfortunately, you are not eligible at this time.
When did NBC Sports Athlete Direct launch?
NBC Sports Athlete Direct launched in May 2022. Student-athletes at Notre Dame, Temple and Vanderbilt participated in a pilot program.
How much money can I make participating in NBC Sports Athlete Direct campaigns?
It will vary by advertiser campaign.
If I participate in NIL offers from NBC Sports Athlete Direct, can I still do other NIL deals that are not related to NBC Sports Athlete Direct?
Yes. Absolutely! You can still do other NIL deals that are not related to NBC Sports Athlete Direct. This program is non-exclusive.
What should I know about NBC Sports?
NBC Sports is a media company that presents premier content across linear and digital platforms that include: NBC, USA Network, Golf Channel, CNBC, NBC Sports Regional Networks and Peacock. NBC Sports is home to the most watched events in America, and possesses an unparalleled collection of media rights agreements, with some of the most prestigious sports properties in the world including the Olympics, NFL, NBA, MLB, NHL, NASCAR, INDYCAR, PGA TOUR, Notre Dame, Premier League and French Open.
NBC Sports also consists of NBC Sports Next, a subdivision of NBC Sports, and home to all NBCUniversal digital applications in sports and technology. NBC Sports is part of NBCUniversal which owns and operates a valuable portfolio of news and entertainment television networks, a premier motion picture company, significant television production operations, a leading television stations group, world-renowned theme parks, and a premium ad-supported streaming service. NBCUniversal is a subsidiary of Comcast Corporation.