Trump signs executive order setting five-year college sports window, one transfer

President Donald Trump signed an executive order on Friday that would reshape college sports eligibility and transfer rules.

The White House said the order would limit athletes to a five-year participation window and allow one transfer with immediate eligibility during that period. Athletes who earn a four-year degree would be allowed one additional immediate-eligibility transfer.

The order also directs federal agencies to examine compliance issues tied to eligibility limits, transfers, revenue-sharing and improper financial activity. According to AP, schools that do not comply could face federal funding consequences.

NCAA president Charlie Baker called the move a significant step forward but said a permanent bipartisan federal legislative solution is still needed. The White House said the order is set to take effect Aug. 1, 2026.

The action escalates the federal government’s effort to impose structure on college athletics, where transfer activity and athlete compensation have become major policy battlegrounds. It also sets up possible legal and political fights over how far Washington can go in regulating the sport.