NCAA Divisional Reclassification

Facing a perfect storm of rising costs and enrollment challenges, some college and university leaders are turning toward athletics to boost brand recognition, drive applications, and generate more revenue. In extreme cases, leaders are reviewing whether to reclassify to a higher NCAA division for a chance at the big payouts that, according to headlines, seem promised at those levels. Since 2021, nine colleges and universities have completed the move into a higher NCAA division. But the pace is picking up. As of December 2024, an additional 24 institutions were actively reclassifying and many more were considering it.

Despite the costs associated with reclassification, some institutions still feel compelled to move forward. In some cases, they face external pressures, such as conference realignment limiting their competition opportunities. Others are betting on their own “Flutie Effect,” a phenomenon where unexpected, sudden athletic success boosts revenue through things like merchandise sales, increased brand recognition and applications, and yield.

Regardless of the circumstances, institutional leaders considering a move to a higher division must reflect on the complete implications before doing so. When institutions don’t appreciate or plan for the challenges ahead, reclassification is unlikely to support their strategic goals.

This report will help executive cabinet leaders assess whether changing NCAA divisions is a strategic move and, if so, how prepared they are. Download the full report, or read on to learn more about two assumptions that drive reclassification:

1. Historical success in our current division means we’re ready to (and should) move up
2. Participating in a higher division promises higher revenue

Once you’ve explored the assumptions and realities, use our NCAA Divisional Reclassification Readiness Assessment to evaluate whether changing divisions is the right move for your institution.