National Letter of Intent
Early Signing Period

November is a busy and important month for hockey players who are dreaming of playing in the NCAA because National Letter of Intent early signing period for the 58 Division 1 men's teams and 33 Division 1 women's teams that can offer athletic scholarships.

The early signing period is November 12 to 19, 2014. By signing a National Letter of Intent the player is agreeing to attend the school on a full-time basis for one academic year. In return, the school agrees to provide athletics financial aid (scholarship) for the same period of time - 1 academic year. By signing the NLI, the athlete is putting an end to the recruiting process, but is not a necessity.

The regular signing period for the National Letter of intent is April 15, 2015 to August 1, 2015.

By signing the NLI, you are no longer able to receive recruiting contacts and phone calls from other teams. Also, you have committed to the school, not the coach. Therefore, the NLI program is focusing on the educational objective of the prospective student-athlete.

It is crucial to remember that all athletics scholarships are only guaranteed for 1 year. They are renewable and under most circumstances will be. However, it is usually the coach who decides who receives scholarship money, how much, and if it will be renewed. Schools must notify the athlete in writing prior to July 1 if the Athletics Scholarship will be reduced or taken away. There is usually an appeal process available to the student-athlete in that situation.

To make sure you are staying on track for your goal of playing hockey in the NCAA and hopefully receiving a scholarship, subscribe to YCH News for your Free Recruiting Checklist and monthly news, tips, and updates.

For further information, consult the NLI website .

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