What does "provisional" NCAA membership status signify?

"Provisional" NCAA membership status indicates that an institution is in a transitional phase toward full membership in the NCAA. This status is temporary and comes with specific requirements and guidelines that the institution must follow during this period. These requirements often include adhering to NCAA rules and regulations and demonstrating the ability to meet the criteria for full membership.

This provisional phase is essential for the NCAA to ensure that the institution is prepared for the responsibilities and standards of full membership, which includes aspects like academic performance, compliance with NCAA regulations, and competitive viability. In essence, provisional status serves as an opportunity for institutions to align themselves with NCAA expectations before being granted full membership, thereby allowing a structured approach to integration into NCAA athletics.