Why Should College Athletes Be Paid for 2026?

The Interests of College Athletics

Academic, Sports, and Recreation

Athletics and academics have a unique relationship, particularly in the United States. College sports contribute much to American higher education’s global dominance and the appeal of college has long included sports competitions. Team sports have a significant positive impact on alumni ties, local and regional identities, recruitment and admissions, as well as fundraising.

Experts say physically active people are not only healthier but also perform better on tests of cerebral or intellectual ability, according to studies (Hernandez-Mendo et al., 2019). While some college athletes struggle to balance their athletic and academic commitments, many students find that the high level of organization required to accomplish both can push them to be highly successful in both areas. Grades and GPA averages are not always the only indicators of academic success. Many college athletes work hard to strike a balance between their obligations.

Yukhymenko-Lescroart (2021) provided more details about this relationship in her study “The role of passion for sport in college student-athletes’ motivation and effort in academics and athletics" published in the International Journal of Educational Research Open. The study analyzed the motivational factors that influence student-athlete perceptions of their efforts within and between the academic and athletic domains. According to her study, “athletic effort was regulated through interest in sport; whereas academic effort was regulated through academic identity and the perceived value of classes. Across-domain relationships emerged between athletic identity and academic effort and between perceived academic value and sport effort. Results revealed a salient role of harmonious passion for sport in psychological needs and autonomous motivation, both within- and across-domains. Obsessive passion for sport was advantageous to athletic identity and perceived sport value, but detrimental to perceived choice of major. Taken together, findings highlight the importance of considering cross-domain spillover effects in student-athletes’ motivation and effort."

Despite evidence of the benefits of athletic participation, major college sports have largely been ignored as a serious academic subject within higher education. This could be because scholars believe the subject is not important enough to study.

Nevertheless, athletic programs help participants develop fitness, competitiveness, drive, and discipline. They carry what they learn about teamwork, individual responsibility, perseverance, and goal-oriented tasks with them as they grow into competent professionals. Additionally, the bonds that form between teammates often transcend the playing field. All of that camaraderie benefits the university in the long run when alumni gather and donate to their alma mater.

The College Sports Industry

Athletics programs bring in a lot of money for some colleges. Universities generate billions of dollars in revenue from media rights, ticket sales, branding, and direct program donations. In 2019, the athletic departments of NCAA member colleges generated $18.9 billion in revenue.

While athletes may choose a college based on its athletic program, the reputation a school gains through sports can also attract non-athletes. Team spirit and its derivative fan loyalty can infect a campus and a community. Some colleges have sports cultures that engulf surrounding towns and permeate their states. Branding generates revenue on its own, but it also attracts additional contributions from alumni and fans.

How can financial literacy empower college athletes?

Comprehensive financial education equips college athletes with the tools needed to navigate both short-term budgeting and long-term career planning. Tailored financial literacy programs can foster informed decision-making related to investments, savings, and managing earnings from opportunities such as NIL deals. By integrating specialized learning resources into their curriculum, athletes can enhance their understanding of financial markets and alternative career pathways. This approach not only prepares them for the unpredictable nature of sports careers but also enables them to pursue diverse income-generating opportunities, including exploring fields outside athletics, such as enrolling in a 4 week online course for medical coding and billing cost.

How Can Enhanced Academic Programs Secure Long-Term Success for College Athletes?

A structured academic framework tailored for college athletes can serve as a strategic alternative to direct monetary compensation. Institutions may partner with specialized educational providers to design flexible learning options that accommodate unpredictable athletic schedules and rigorous training demands. For instance, integrating programs offered by online colleges with open enrollment can allow athletes to advance their studies without compromising practice or competition commitments. Such initiatives emphasize career-oriented curricula, practical skill development, and personalized academic advising, thereby reinforcing athletes' long-term professional trajectories and financial stability.

What alternative compensation models are viable for college athletes?

Alternative compensation models propose a shift away from the traditional scholarship-only system by incorporating revenue sharing, performance incentives, and long-term academic investments. Some models suggest establishing revenue pools that distribute a portion of sports-generated income directly to athletes, while others advocate for enhanced scholarship packages tied to educational and career outcomes. These approaches aim to balance fairness with institutional sustainability and protect the academic mission without compromising athletic excellence. Additionally, integrating flexible financial and educational programs—such as those that explore more affordable academic pathways, as seen when is online college cheaper—can offer student-athletes both monetary and career development benefits, ensuring a more comprehensive support system.

Are there benefits from not paying college athletes?

Intercollegiate sports have always been described by their amateurism, the classical ideal of disinterested athleticism untainted by money (Lewis, 2006). Because of this, college athletes have not been paid since the first organized sports competitions between colleges and universities in the late 1800s. By the early 20th century, collegiate sports, particularly gridiron football, were popularly participated in by professional athletes that bring raucousness and violence to the games, something that is not aligned with aristocratic amateurism portrayed by the collegiate competition.

As a result, the NCAA was established, which prohibited professionalism in collegiate athletics and put restrictions on how much money college athletes could be paid. The rules are intended to preserve the amateurism of student participants. According to the NCAA, fans would lose interest in the games if the players were professional athletes. To ensure that college athletes remain a part of the college community, the rules also limit the athletes’ compensation to capped scholarships.

Consequently, in the 1950s, the term “student-athlete" was coined by the NCAA to help the organization fight workers’ compensation claimed by injured college athletes (Solomon, 2018). Later, the NCAA used the phrase in court for decades to contest compensation claims involving athletes who died or were seriously injured while performing athletic services for universities. According to the latest available data, on average, the estimated injury rate per 1,000 athlete exposures is 6% (CDC, 2015).

NCAA officials maintain that economic constraints on college athletes are vital for their well-being and academic success (Branch, 2015). However, economists argue that major college sports are a perfect illustration of collusion to rig the labor market against the athletes’ interests.

Hence, efforts have been made to prevent the term from being used to refer to students participating in college sports. Branch (2014) said the term student-athlete was “intentionally ambiguous because college players were not students at play, nor were they just athletes in college." Being students at play understates their athletic obligations, while referring to them as athletes in college may imply, they were professionals. As a result, the term is always used to refer to a student rather than a worker.

The National Labor Relations Board (NLRB) argued that college athletes should be regarded as university employees in this case (Abruzzo, 2021). The term has been used to discredit college athletes who are organizing for employment rights. Therefore, college athletes are employees under the Act, and misclassifying them as “student-athletes" and leading them to believe they are not protected by the Act has a chilling effect, according to the NLRB.

Some athletes receive full tuition, scholarship coverage, and housing, which onlookers may interpret as payment for playing. Others even claim that money given as compensation would put the athlete further in debt. However, being an athlete can be viewed as a full-time occupation, and students spend so much time missing class, at practice, or at games that they have no time to earn extra money for other personal needs.

Can Accelerated Academic Programs Reduce Financial Strain for Student-Athletes?

Accelerated academic programs offer an underexplored pathway that addresses both educational advancement and financial relief for student-athletes. By compressing degree timelines and reducing overall tuition expenses, these programs can help athletes manage their rigorous practice schedules without prolonging their time in college. Integrating condensed learning models into athletic programs enables students to maintain academic progress while staying competitive on the field. Moreover, tailored pathways—such as pursuing a 6 month associate degree—provide a swift entry into the workforce or a smoother transition to further education, thereby mitigating long-term debt and financial uncertainty.

What Are the Tax and Financial Planning Considerations for Paid College Athletes?

Compensating college athletes introduces new tax liabilities and financial responsibilities that demand careful planning and management. Direct payments, along with earnings from name, image, and likeness deals, constitute taxable income under federal and state law. Student-athletes must navigate complex tax regulations, including quarterly estimated tax payments and potential self-employment obligations when dealing with endorsement income.

A robust financial strategy that incorporates budgeting, tax planning, and long-term investment is essential to mitigate unforeseen tax burdens. Financial advisors with specialized expertise in sports compensation and collegiate finances can offer guidance tailored to these challenges. Additionally, integrating comprehensive financial education into athletic programs can support athletes in managing their earnings effectively. Exploring programs, such as easy degrees to get online that pay well, provides a pathway to enhance financial literacy, ensuring that athletic compensation contributes to long-term economic stability.

How Does Social Media Influence College Athlete Compensation Opportunities?

Digital platforms are increasingly shaping the landscape of college sports by allowing athletes to build and manage influential personal brands. A strong social media presence not only increases visibility but also creates additional avenues for income through targeted endorsements and NIL deals. By strategically curating content and engaging with followers, athletes can attract sponsorship opportunities and demonstrate a marketable persona to both traditional sports stakeholders and digital advertisers. In parallel, leveraging digital branding strategies can complement academic pursuits and career planning, with programs like 1 year online master's programs offering critical business and management skills to navigate a digitally integrated sports economy.

What Paying Athletes Could Mean for College Sports

Despite the high earnings generated by college sports, college athletes have been barred from participating in this profitable industry, leaving them unable to leverage their talent. However, changes in governing body rulings provide opportunities for college athletes to receive compensation for their name, image, and likeness (NIL). For instance, naming a business ideas could now include a popular athlete’s name and photos.

The NIL Rights

Beginning July 1, 2021, NCAA college athletes can earn money from their name, image, and likeness after the governing bodies adopted a uniform interim policy suspending NCAA NIL rules for all incoming and current student-athletes in all sports (NCAA, 2021). The interim policy directed all concerned to the following:

• Individuals can engage in NIL activities that are consistent with the law of the state where the school is located. Colleges and universities may be a resource for state law questions.
• College athletes who attend a school in a state without a NIL law can engage in this type of activity without violating NCAA rules related to name, image, and likeness.
• Individuals can use a professional services provider for NIL activities.
• Student-athletes should report NIL activities consistent with state law or school and conference requirements to their school. (Brutlag Hosick, 2021)

However, the policy in all three divisions maintains the commitment to avoid pay-for-play and improper inducements linked to attending a specific school.

Consequently, a growing number of states have passed legislation allowing athletes to be compensated for their names, images, or likenesses (Smalley, 2022). These laws allowed student-athletes to be paid for endorsements, advertisements, and activities like signing autographs. As of February 18, 2022, 28 states had passed legislation allowing college athletes to earn compensation (Smalley, 2022). Legislation has been passed in 27 states, and one governor has signed executive orders. Some states, however, are debating amending or repealing their NIL laws over concerns that they may be more onerous for athletes than NCAA regulations. The first state to repeal its NIL law was Alabama on February 3.

Legal Issues and Their Implications for College Athletics

In late 2019, California passed the Fair Pay to Play Act, and 40 other states introduced legislation along the same lines. In 2021, the number of bills enacted related to student-athlete compensation increased, with 21 states passing legislation. Some states have cited the need to remain relevant for recruiting as a reason for the quick passage of their bills. At least five other states are currently considering legislation regarding student-athlete compensation.

The specific provisions of such legislation vary by state, but enacted bills generally include language barring the NCAA, conferences, and schools from prohibiting student-athletes from receiving compensation for their names, images, or likenesses. Additionally, a lot of states permit athletes to work with agents and demand that schools be informed of any endorsement and advertising agreements.

On June 21, the Supreme Court issued a unanimous decision rejecting the NCAA’s ban on education-related benefits for student-athletes. Even though the case did not specifically address payment for the use of a student’s name, image, or likeness, many legal analysts believe the outcome opens the door to more extensive challenges of the NCAA’s claim that collegiate athletes must remain unpaid to maintain a model of amateurism.

The NCAA’s interim NIL decision allows college athletes to earn money through activities such as sponsorship and public appearances, which were previously prohibited on the dubious grounds that they would jeopardize amateur sports’ integrity.

The NIL rule also applies to teams. Additionally, schools are still generally prohibited from paying student-athletes directly for their efforts. Furthermore, the new NIL policy primarily benefits the more well-known athletes.

The limitations of the interim policy will become apparent over the coming years as it is perfected, but it is a step in the right direction. Thus, it should be refined rather than discarded. College sports, amateur or not, are big business. Beyond scholarships, college athletes receive almost none of the revenue they generate. That is not a problem for the few college athletes who go on to have professional playing careers, but it is unfair to the majority of athletes whose athletic careers end when they graduate from college. They deserve to benefit financially from their playing years, just like professional athletes do.

The consequences of court decisions and state laws that allow college athletes to sign non-disclosure agreements are being felt on campuses across the country, although schools and athletes have received little guidance on how to manage the process. While being recruited by various schools, top high school athletes in football, basketball, and other revenue-generating college sports will consider their potential for endorsement earnings.

What role does mental health play in the discussion on paying college athletes?

The debate on paying college athletes often overlooks the impact of financial stress and high athletic expectations on their mental health. As student-athletes balance rigorous academic and sports commitments, the lack of compensation can exacerbate mental health challenges, adding pressure to already demanding schedules.

• Increased Stress and Anxiety Due to Financial Pressures:
  • Many student-athletes struggle with financial concerns, as scholarships may not fully cover personal expenses, travel, or living costs. The inability to work a traditional job due to sports commitments adds further stress.
  • Financial pressures can lead to heightened anxiety and reduced mental well-being, as athletes may worry about their financial stability and the impact of these challenges on their future.
• Burnout and Performance Pressure:
  • College athletes often face intense pressure to perform at a high level, which can result in burnout. Compounding this is the knowledge that they generate significant revenue without fair compensation, leading to feelings of exploitation.
  • Mental health experts have noted that performance pressure is particularly high in revenue-generating sports, such as football and basketball, increasing burnout risks among athletes in these fields.
• Limited Access to Mental Health Resources:
  • Although some colleges offer mental health services, access varies widely, and student-athletes may not receive adequate support for issues related to financial stress and athletic demands.
  • Paid compensation could help alleviate some of these mental health stressors by providing financial relief, enabling student-athletes to seek additional resources for their mental well-being.

The Future of College Sports: Inclusivity and Accessibility

While the debate over compensation for college athletes continues, it's crucial to consider how accessibility and inclusivity shape the future of collegiate sports. Expanding educational opportunities for underrepresented groups, such as veterans and active military members, is one area where progress can be made. Programs designed to support these groups, like those offered by some of the military friendly online colleges, demonstrate how institutions can bridge gaps not only in education but also in athletics.

Integrating individuals from different backgrounds into college sports enriches the diversity and holistic growth of the athletes involved. For instance, military-affiliated students bring discipline, teamwork, and leadership skills acquired through service, which align seamlessly with the values of athletic programs. Similarly, providing flexible schedules and targeted support can enable more individuals to compete in college-level sports while pursuing their academic or personal commitments.

By fostering inclusivity and collaboration, universities can not only strengthen their athletic programs but also create a more equitable and supportive environment for all students. Addressing these challenges at the intersection of education, athletics, and accessibility ensures that the core values of collegiate sports adapt to meet modern societal needs.

How Can College Athletes Enhance Long-Term Career Prospects Through Academic Choices?

College athletes face unique challenges in transitioning from competitive sports to careers when professional athletic opportunities are limited. Integrating tailored academic planning and career guidance into collegiate athletic programs can play a pivotal role in this transition. Institutions that offer dedicated advising help athletes select degree programs aligned with future job markets and personal interests, ensuring that academic decisions enhance long-term financial and professional stability. For instance, exploring options provided by the easiest college majors can offer pathways that balance athletic commitments with realistic career planning. By emphasizing structured academic advising and customized curricula, colleges can empower student-athletes to capitalize on their educational opportunities and secure viable career trajectories beyond sports.

Balancing the Interests of College Athletics

Every year, the debate over whether student-athletes should be paid resurfaces, with the most common arguments pointing to the fact that college-level sport is supposed to be amateur enterprise. Being on a college sports team is seen here as an integral part of the education students are paying for rather than a job or a career. However, as the cost of getting a bachelor’s degree continue to rise, this point of view becomes problematic. Financial difficulties are common among student-athletes, especially those who do not have the opportunity to continue playing professionally after college, thus giving rise to modern arguments for why should student athletes be paid.

For years, the National Collegiate Athletic Association (NCAA) has been the subject of almost constant debate. While this debate frequently focuses on financial compensation for amateur athletes, many experts argue that one of the NCAA’s most important obligations to players, particularly those from underserved communities and low-income families, should be to prepare them for a future that may not include a lucrative professional sports career.

Miller (2022), in a paper published in the Journal of Intercollegiate Sport titled “The Centerpiece of College Athletics:" Prioritizing Education in the College Sports Reform Movement," proposed “concrete and specific reforms that would more sufficiently compensate the professional role revenue-generating college athletes perform, without sacrificing the educational connection that is vital to the core of college sports for all male and female athletes, regardless of revenue-generation. It argues that colleges involved in revenue-generating college sports should expect college athletes to be students first, encourage them to earn pay for their names, images, and likenesses (NILs), and strike a better balance between providing education to athletes and entertainment to the public. Specific reforms include raising eligibility requirements, giving athletes more time and financial assistance to finish their college degrees, and tying coaching pay to graduation rates, all of which would support the notion that universities treat athletes ethically."

Key Insights

• Revenue Generation and Amateurism Debate: The NCAA generated $18.9 billion in revenue in 2021, sparking debates over whether college athletes should be compensated beyond scholarships. Critics argue that the amateurism ideal is used to justify not sharing profits with athletes, despite the extensive time and effort athletes invest.
• Student-Athlete Definition and Compensation: A student-athlete must balance academic and athletic responsibilities, including 20 hours of practice per week and maintaining a minimum GPA. They receive various forms of support, such as scholarships covering tuition and other expenses, yet these often fall short of covering all costs and do not compensate for the revenue they generate.
• Pros of Paying College Athletes: Paying athletes could reduce financial stress, allow them to focus on studies and sports without needing additional jobs, and potentially encourage them to complete their education before going professional.
• Cons of Paying College Athletes: Opponents argue that athletes already receive compensation through scholarships and athletic development services. Paying athletes could lead to additional costs for colleges, especially for less profitable sports, and create legal complexities around employment contracts and Title IX compliance.
• Legal and Policy Changes: Recent legal changes, such as the NCAA's interim NIL policy, allow college athletes to earn money from their name, image, and likeness, signaling a shift towards compensating athletes for their contributions. However, the full implications of these changes are still unfolding.
• Impact on College Athletics: Paying college athletes could reshape the landscape of college sports, potentially leading to the elimination of less profitable sports and changing the recruitment and retention dynamics for athletes. The relationship between athletics and academics is also a critical factor in this debate.