Student-Athlete NIL Checklist
Frequently Asked Questions
NIL is an activity that involves the use of a student-athlete's Name, Image, and Likeness for commercial or promotional purposes. As long as "quid pro quo'' is executed, student-athletes may be compensated for use of their NIL. The following are examples of NIL activities that are permissible for students athletes:
• Providing private lessons/small group training
• Signing autographs
• Selling merchandise
• Partnering with companies and brands to endorse or promote products and services
• Participating in public appearances
• Licensing NIL for passive income
Student-athletes are not permitted to receive trade or financial compensation without providing a value in exchange. NIL opportunities may not be used as a recruiting inducement or as a substitute for pay-for-play.
Additionally, student-athletes may not enter an NIL contract to receive compensation for the advertisement, endorsement, or promotion of the following:
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Gambling
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Sports Betting
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Controlled Substances
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Tobacco
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Marijuana
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Any product, brand, or company that conflicts with the values & mission of the University or reflects adversely on the University or Athletics.
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Student-athletes may receive compensation in the form of money, stocks/equity, and free goods or services as long as it is in exchange for the use of their NIL.
USD Athletics owns the rights to our logos, marks, and intellectual property. Any use of our IP as part of an NIL deal without express written permission is prohibited.
Yes, you are welcome to work with an agent or other professional service provider (PSP). If you work with an agent, they must be approved by USD compliance in accordance with California state law. Please have them fill out the University of San Diego Athletics Department Athlete NIL Agent and Advisor Registration Form.
International student-athletes are highly encouraged to consider meeting with the Office of International Students and Scholars regarding their F-1 visa status prior to partaking in NIL activities.
NIL for Student-Athletes
Benefits of
NIL Participation
• Earn Income While Competing
• Build Your Personal Brand
• Gain Real-World Business Experience
• Create and Sell Custom Merchandise
• Support Causes You Care About
• Connect with Local and National Brands
• Boost Social Media Engagement
• Professional Legal & Contract Resources
• Flexible Compensation Options
• Position Yourself for Post-College Success
Did You Know?
Engaging social media content helps student-athletes attract brands and increase NIL opportunities.
Want to Learn More?
Through strategic partnerships, USD offers student-athletes a wide range of NIL programming designed to educate, empower, and elevate. From personal branding and social media strategy to financial literacy and deal-making, these resources help athletes build their brand and maximize NIL opportunities.
Past NIL Programming:
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The Athlete Brand Builder - Personal Branding
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Wasserman - Social Media Management
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Influencer - How to land an NIL deal
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Technology Credit Union - Financial Literacy
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Knauss School of Business Marketing Partnership - Individualized social media content plans and strategy
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Dealiyo and USD Legal Clinic - Legal Education
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