How OAO Courses Help Student-Athletes Stay Eligible

If you’re the parent of a student-athlete with dreams of competing at the college level, you’ve likely come across the term “NCAA-approved courses.” You may have even seen that Optima Academy Online (OAO) is proud to offer NCAA-approved classes—but what exactly does that mean, and why should it matter to your family?

Let’s break it down.

What Is the NCAA, and Why Do They Approve Courses?

The NCAA (National Collegiate Athletic Association) governs college athletics for more than 1,000 colleges and universities in the U.S. To ensure student-athletes are prepared for the academic rigor of college, the NCAA requires them to complete a specific set of core high school courses—called “NCAA-approved courses”—before they can be eligible to play in college.

These courses must meet the NCAA’s standards for:

• Content quality

• Instructional time

• Student-teacher interaction

• College preparatory rigor

If a school’s courses don’t meet those standards, they won’t count toward a student-athlete’s eligibility.

Why Does It Matter That OAO’s Courses Are NCAA Approved?

When you choose Optima Academy Online, you’re choosing a curriculum that’s been vetted and accepted by the NCAA. That means:

• Student-athletes can stay on track for college sports eligibility while learning online.

• You don’t have to worry about retaking courses or meeting unexpected eligibility gaps.

• You get the flexibility of virtual school with the confidence of compliance.

This is a game-changer for families balancing rigorous sports schedules and academic performance.

What Types of OAO Courses Are NCAA Approved?

OAO offers a variety of NCAA-approved core courses across:

• English

• Math

• Natural/Physical Science

• Social Science

• Foreign Language

These courses align with both state and NCAA requirements and are taught by certified teachers in a fully accredited virtual environment.

Whether your student is taking one course to stay eligible or a full course load to graduate online, they can do so with peace of mind.

How Does This Help My Student-Athlete?

Your student-athlete already works hard on the field. At OAO, we help them thrive off the field too, by offering:

• 4-day school weeks

• No weekend homework

• Live and on-demand course options

• Virtual Reality-enhanced lessons that keep students engaged and focused

• The common courtesy of connection with social hours, school clubs and intentional time for interaction with peers.

This flexibility ensures that your athlete can train and compete without falling behind academically.

What Do I Need to Do as a Parent?

Here’s how to make the most of OAO’s NCAA-approved status:

1. Create an NCAA Eligibility Center Account:
   If your child plans to play Division I or II sports, they’ll need to register at eligibilitycenter.org.

2. Track Core Courses and GPA:
   Make sure your student is enrolled in the NCAA-approved courses and maintains a qualifying GPA.

3. Stay Connected with OAO Admissions and Counseling:
   Our team can help you choose the right mix of courses and ensure your student stays eligible and on track.

At Optima Academy Online, we believe your child shouldn’t have to choose between academic success and athletic dreams. With NCAA-approved courses, your student can pursue both—on their terms.

Have questions about NCAA eligibility or which courses are right for your athlete? Schedule a call with our admissions team today.