If you're trying to play D3 sports in college, it is important to understand the NCAA D3 Recruiting Calendar.

However, unlike Divisions I and II, which have detailed recruiting calendars, the NCAA does not publish a specific recruiting calendar for D3 sports.

As a result, D3 operates with more flexible recruiting guidelines.

This D3 recruiting calendar guidance will tell you:

• ✅ When coaches can reach out & respond
• ✅ When you should start contacting coaches & visiting schools
• ✅ What to do this Summer
• ✅ And when it’s too early for anything

Let’s break it down.

D3 = No Contact Rules? Not Quite.

Unlike D1 and D2, D3 has fewer restrictions, but that doesn't mean there are no rules.

Here's what matters most:

Key Dates to Know

Coach Contact:

• Coaches can respond to your emails, take calls, and meet in person any time after your sophomore year.
• There are no recruiting “dead periods” like D1, so D3 recruiting is always live.

D3 Official & Unofficial Visits:

• You can take unofficial visits at any time.
• Official visits can happen after January 1st of a recruit’s junior year of high school.

Application Season:

• Most D3 recruiting picks up Fall of senior year, but juniors should be emailing coaches now — especially for high-academic schools - to let them know where they’ll be playing this Summer.
• Coaches can’t recruit you if they never see you play or watch your film.
• If you’re a Sophomore or younger - it’s ok to start thinking about college but we encourage recruits to slow down.
• Work on your game, focus on your grades, enjoy high school and being a kid. There will come a time for recruitment, but for now, there are other priorities.

For comprehensive information on D3 recruiting rules and guidelines, here are two resources we’ve found:

The NCAA's official D3 Compliance page:

👉 NCAA Division III Compliance

This resource provides valuable insights into the recruiting process, eligibility requirements, and other compliance-related matters pertinent to prospective Division III student-athletes.

This helpful brochure from the CCIW (A D3 Conference):

👉 D3 Athletics Recruiting Quick Reference Guide

If you have further questions or need assistance with specific aspects of the recruiting process, feel free to ask!