Free tool
The Recruiting Clock
Every track & field recruiting date that matters for your athlete, from first coach contact to signing day. Girls and boys are on different clocks, so this one knows the difference.
Pick all three to see your timeline.
The rules behind the clock
| NCAA D1 | NCAA D2 | NCAA D3 | NAIA | |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Coaches can call, text, DM | June 15 after sophomore year | Any time | Earlier than D1; the loosest NCAA rules | Fewer restrictions than the NCAA |
| Official visits | Aug 1 before junior year | June 15 before junior year | Jan 1 of junior year | Set by each school |
| Athletic scholarships | Yes. Roster caps at opted-in schools | Yes, usually partial | None. Academic and need-based aid only | Yes, usually partial |
| How you commit | Written offer of athletics aid (Nov / April) | Written offer of athletics aid (Nov / April) | Admission + financial aid; nothing binding | School’s own agreement |
| Eligibility registration | NCAA Eligibility Center | NCAA Eligibility Center | Not required | NAIA Eligibility Center |
Track & field and cross country rules, checked October 2026 against NCAA recruiting guides and calendars. Rules change every year; confirm with each school's compliance office.