KIRKLAND, Wash. — Northwest University student-athletes could have an additional season to represent the Eagles following the NAIA membership's approval of a fifth year of athletic eligibility. The change takes effect in fall 2027.

Approved Nov. 4, the legislation increases the NAIA's participation limit from four seasons to five. Student-athletes must continue to meet academic progress requirements, including the required credit hours, along with all other eligibility standards.

The policy provides flexibility for students whose college experience includes time away from school or part-time enrollment. The five seasons do not have to be completed in consecutive years, although limits on terms of attendance still apply.

The additional season will be available to qualifying student-athletes who entered the 2026-27 academic year with eligibility remaining and have sufficient terms of attendance available. Students who exhausted their four seasons before the start of 2026-27 will not have eligibility restored.

The change also creates potential opportunities for NCAA transfers. Reaching the end of the NCAA's five-year eligibility clock will not automatically prevent a student-athlete from competing in the NAIA. Remaining eligibility will depend on the individual's enrollment history, previous participation and compliance with NAIA requirements.

The NAIA Council of Presidents introduced the proposal in September 2026 to give student-athletes greater flexibility as they work toward their academic and athletic goals.

For more information, visit https://www.naia.org/membership/path-forward-task-force/.