What forms of financial aid are permissible for NCAA student-athletes?

• A. Loans from private lenders.
• B. Athletic scholarships conditioned on performance.
• C. Tuition waivers for non-athlete employees.
• D. Scholarships and aid based on need or merit that are not conditioned on athletic performance, plus cost-of-attendance stipends consistent with school policy.

Answer: (D)

The key idea is that NCAA aid for student-athletes must come from non-athletic sources and not be tied to how the athlete performs. Scholarships and other aid given for need or merit, as long as they aren’t conditioned on athletic performance, fit this rule, and cost-of-attendance stipends are allowed as long as the school follows its policy. This preserves amateurism and fairness, preventing “pay-for-play” scenarios. The other options involve benefits tied to athletic performance or non-applicable employee arrangements, which aren’t permitted as standard student-athlete aid.