How can someone move to a new division inside the NCAA?

• A. By changing their mascot
• B. By paying a fee to switch
• C. Through a 5-year reclassification process
• D. By winning a national championship

Answer: (C)

Moving to a different division within the NCAA happens through a formal reclassification process, not by changing symbols, paying a fee, or simply winning titles. A school seeking to move submits an application to the division it wants to join and must demonstrate it meets that division’s standards for membership—things like the level of athletic scholarships (where applicable), number of sports sponsored, facilities, budgets, and a solid compliance and governance framework. The NCAA reviews the plan and the school goes through a staged transition that typically spans about five years. During this period the school proves its ongoing readiness and adherence to the new division’s requirements, and only after successfully completing the transition does it become a full member with eligibility for championships in that division.