Transfers

The Transfer Portal

How the transfer portal works in track and field and why it matters to recruits. Rules checked Oct 27, 2026. Rules change, so confirm details on the linked sources and with each school's compliance office. This is general guidance, not legal or eligibility advice.

2026-27 D1 windows (cross country and track and field)

  • Nov. 23 - Dec. 7, 2026 and June 14-23, 2027.
  • Other schools can contact an athlete once they're in the portal.

What it means for high school recruits

  • Some D1 staffs hold spots for transfers. Keep communicating with coaches through the spring, and keep D2, D3, NAIA and JUCO options alive.
  • Ask directly: "How many high school athletes do you expect to sign in my events, and how many transfers?"

D2, D3 and NAIA transfers (four-year to four-year)

  • D2: no transfer windows. An athlete can give their school written notice of transfer at any time; after an NCAA transfer education module, the school has 7 days to enter them in the Transfer Portal. A four-year transfer can compete right away if they would have been eligible at the old school, had they stayed; otherwise after one full-time term (Bylaw 14.3.5).
  • D3: no transfer windows. Since Aug. 1, 2026, an athlete can start the notification of transfer process at any time, or sign a self-release form that lets other D3 schools talk with them for 30 days. Eligibility rules are in Bylaw 14.5.5.1.
  • NAIA: transfers don't sit out a residency period, though some conferences have their own rules. A coach contacted by an athlete at another NAIA school must notify that school in writing within 10 days, unless the athlete has a release from their athletic director.

Sources (checked Oct 27, 2026)

← All track & field recruiting guides