Join the NAIA
The NAIA is a governing body for collegiate athletic programs in North America. Nearly 300 colleges and universities in the United States and Canada have chosen to align their athletic programs with the NAIA. A leader in the development of student-athletes, the NAIA is a pioneer in implementing exceptional standards for academics, diversity and character.
| NAIA at a Glance |
| Nearly 300 member colleges and universities (view list) |
| 23 national championships |
| 650,000 students |
| First to include black colleges and students in championships |
| First to include women in national championships |
| First to develop system-wide character initiative with substantive programming |
Why choose the NAIA?
• Good financial decision
• Institutional flexibility & autonomy
• Simple approach to rules
• Serious about academic success
• Development of the "whole person"
Learn more by downloading the following documents or by contacting:
— John Leavens, Senior Vice President for Membership Services, (816) 595-8000
— Marcus Manning, Director of Membership Services, (816) 595-8000
Membership Process Timeline
90 days — Applications are due 90 days prior to the spring (April) or fall (September) meetings of the NAIA Council of Presidents (COP).
30 days — Membership Evaluation Team visits campus at least one month prior to the COP meeting.
Spring approvals — If approved during spring COP meeting, membership becomes effective July 1 the same year.
Fall approvals — If approved during the fall COP meeting, membership becomes effective immediately
Immediately after approval — Compliance documentation must be submitted as soon as possible using the NAIAHelp online reporting system.
New Member Resources
Check out a complete inventory and timeline for first-year membership requirements including compliance and eligibility reporting.
