9-3-25
The college volleyball recruiting process has fundamentally changed for the Class of 2026. Three landmark shifts, roster caps replacing scholarship limits, the elimination of the National Letter of Intent, and expanded NIL opportunities, have created the most significant transformation in college athletics since the modern era began. These changes particularly impact New Jersey recruits navigating an increasingly complex but potentially more rewarding landscape.
The New Reality: From Scholarship Limits to Roster Caps
Beginning July 1, 2025, NCAA Division I eliminated sport-specific scholarship limits under the House v. NCAA settlement. This represents a fundamental shift in how college volleyball programs operate.
Division I: The Transformation Zone
What Changed:
- Women’s volleyball roster caps are now set at 18 players, with all rostered athletes eligible for full or partial scholarships
- Previously, Division I volleyball was limited to 12 scholarships; now programs can offer up to 18
- All sports are now classified as “equivalency sports,” allowing coaches to split scholarships among multiple athletes
The Double-Edged Reality: While more scholarship money is available, roster limits mean fewer walk-on opportunities and increased selectivity in recruiting. Programs that previously carried 20+ players must now cut rosters to 18, making every spot precious.
Division II: Stability Amid Change
Division II programs continue operating under the traditional equivalency model with established scholarship limits:
- Men’s volleyball: 4.5 full scholarship equivalents
- Women’s volleyball: 8.0 full scholarship equivalents
- National Letter of Intent: Still in use for D-II programs
Division III: Business as usual
Division III maintains its academic-focused approach with:
- No athletic scholarships permitted
- No binding commitments through NLI
- Flexible recruiting calendar allowing contact at any time
The End of an Era: National Letter of Intent Eliminated
On October 9, 2024, the NCAA Division I Council eliminated the 60-year-old National Letter of Intent program, effective immediately. Instead of NLIs, recruits now sign financial aid agreements that serve the same binding function.
What This Means for Class of 2026:
- Increased flexibility: Athletes can negotiate terms more freely without the rigid structure of NLIs
- Continued protection: Core benefits remain—schools are still legally bound to provide aid, and other programs cannot contact signed athletes
- Celebration continues: National Signing Day will proceed as planned, with athletes signing financial aid agreements instead of NLIs
NIL: From Prohibited to Prominent
The legal landscape has opened NIL discussions in recruiting. Under the House settlement, schools can now share up to $20.5 million annually with student-athletes, beginning July 1, 2025. For volleyball recruits, this means:
- Direct compensation possibilities for top-tier athletes
- More transparent discussions about value and marketability
- Enhanced leverage in recruitment negotiations
Strategic Implications for New Jersey Recruits
Exhibit A: Division Comparison for Class of 2026
Exhibit B: Recruiting Timeline Remains Consistent
Division I Contact Rules:
- First Contact: June 15 after sophomore year
- Official Visits: August 1 before junior year
- Key Calendar Periods: Dead periods from January 16–July 31, 2026
Exhibit C: Risk-Opportunity Matrix
Increased Risks:
- Fewer roster spots available (18-player caps)
- More intense competition for limited positions
- Uncertainty in new financial aid agreements
New Opportunities:
- Enhanced scholarship potential (up to 18 full scholarships)
- Greater negotiation flexibility without NLI constraints
- Possible direct compensation through revenue sharing
Actionable Strategy for Class of 2026
1. Diversify Your Target List
With tighter roster limits, cast a wider net across all three divisions. Don’t rely solely on Division I opportunities.
2. Understand the Opt-In Landscape
Not all Division I schools have opted into the new settlement system. Always ask coaches: “Has your school opted into the House settlement?” This determines which system they’re operating under.
3. Master the New Commitment Process
- Thoroughly review financial aid agreements before signing
- Understand that verbal commitments remain non-binding
- Prepare for NIL discussions, especially if you’re a high-profile recruit
4. Leverage Academic Excellence
With increased opportunities comes greater emphasis on academic eligibility. Strong grades provide flexibility across all divisions.
The Bottom Line
The Class of 2026 enters college volleyball during the most transformative period in NCAA history. These changes create both unprecedented opportunities through increased scholarships and new challenges through roster limitations.
Success requires adaptability, thorough research, and strategic thinking. The traditional recruiting playbook has been rewritten. Those who understand and navigate these changes will find themselves best positioned for college volleyball success.
For New Jersey recruits: Start early, stay informed about the evolving NCAA landscape, and remember that while the process has changed, the goal remains the same finding the right academic and athletic fit for your collegiate journey.