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Penn State University: Commonwealth Campus Athletics

FAQ – Campus Closure

(as of 7/17/2025)

 

General Closure & Timeline

  1. Will the athletic program continue operating fully until the campus officially closes?
    Yes, Intercollegiate Athletics will continue to operate on campuses through the 2026-2027 academic year, provided teams are able to sustain viable rosters and coaching staff. Every effort will be made to maintain competitive schedules and full seasons for teams during this time.
  2. What do campus closures mean for current student-athletes over the next two years?
    On campuses that are able to sustain viable rosters, student-athletes will have the opportunity to continue competing, training, and receiving support services as usual. Academically and athletically, the campus is committed to ensuring student-athletes have a great experience during this transition. 
  3. How do campus closures impact the Penn State University Athletic Conference (PSUAC)? The PSUAC and its members intend to operate through the 2026-2027 academic year, as we continue to provide support to our students, coaches and athletic administrators. During this transitional time, the PSUAC expects to offer its full complement of championships, awards and services to members. The PSUAC is reviewing opportunities to expand and stabilize the conference beyond 2027.
  4. What can a student-athlete do if their campus is unable to sponsor their sport program in 2025-2026 or 2026-2027?   The student-athlete should speak to their athletics contact on campus to discuss what options may be available for continued participation and degree completion.                                                                                                             

Eligibility & Competition

  1. Will student-athletes retain full eligibility while competing during the transition?
    Yes. Eligibility standards and participation rules remain in effect. Competing during the transition will not negatively impact your eligibility. Student-athletes affected by the closures may also qualify for relief from the United States Collegiate Athletic Association (USCAA) to continue to participate at their current location if their academics are impacted and they are unable to take a full course load at their respective campus.
  2. Will student-athletes still be able to compete in our regular conference and against our usual opponents?
    Yes, viable teams will remain part of their current conference and maintain regular competition schedules as long as the campus remains open and teams are viable.
  3. How will the athletic department handle postseason eligibility and championships during the transition period?
    Student-athletes and viable teams will remain eligible for postseason play as long as PSUAC and USCAA standards are met.
  4. Will student-athletes utilize seasons of eligibility while competing during the transition to closure? A season of eligibility is utilized when a student-athlete participates against outside competition; therefore, if a student-athlete participates, they will utilize a season of eligibility. Currently, student-athletes may utilize four seasons of eligibility.
  5. Can student-athletes redshirt during this period to preserve eligibility for transfer or future competition?
    A season of competition is used when a student-athlete participates in outside competition or practices with the team after the first contest date. Speak to your campus Athletic Director to more fully understand the eligibility rules.

Recruiting & Transfers

  1. Can a student-athlete enter the NCAA’s transfer portal while still competing here?
    No. The NCAA transfer portal is specifically for NCAA Division I, II, and III student-athletes and is designed to facilitate transfer of student-athletes between NCAA institutions. However, Penn State has developed the CWC Athletics Transition Portal—an internal tool designed to manage, simplify, and streamline the transfer process for student-athletes moving between Commonwealth Campuses. Your campus Athletic Director can enter your name and information into this portal, making it accessible to coaches at other Penn State campuses.
  2. If a student-athlete transfers, will they need to sit out a year or will they be immediately eligible?
    Transfer eligibility depends on your academic standing, sport, and division. Many student-athletes are immediately eligible under current rules, but we recommend speaking with compliance staff or athletic director to confirm.
  3. Will coaches support student-athletes who want to explore other opportunities?
    Absolutely. Coaches and administrators understand this is a unique situation and are committed to supporting the student-athlete’s goals, whether here or elsewhere.
  4. Can a student-athlete be recruited by other schools while still enrolled and competing at their current campus?
    While a student-athlete from a closing campus may continue to compete for up to two more years, they are also eligible to be recruited by other institutions. To initiate this process, the student-athlete must request permission from their campus’ Athletic Director, which allows other schools to communicate with them. Since PSUAC student-athletes do not have access to the NCAA Transfer Portal, they must utilize the Penn State CWC Athletics Transition Portal or reach out to other programs individually and directly.

Support Services

  1. Will athletic training, strength & conditioning, and academic support services remain in place during the transition?
    Yes. All core student-athlete support services will continue to be available to viable programs through the transition to ensure your health, academic success, and performance.

Facilities & Staffing

  1. Will athletic facilities continue to be maintained and available for use?
    Yes. Facilities will remain open and functional and will continue to be maintained for safe and effective use.
  2. Will coaching staffs remain in place through the transition?
    The intention is to retain coaching staff to ensure stability and continuity for student-athletes. Any changes will be communicated promptly.
  3. What happens if a coach leaves before the campus closes? Will they be replaced?
    In the event of a coaching departure, the athletics department will assess the situation and make staffing decisions with the student-athlete experience in mind.

Communication & Decision-Making

  1. How often will updates be provided to student-athletes about the closure and transition?
    Regular updates will be shared throughout the process, with opportunities for student-athletes to ask questions and voice concerns.
  2. Who can student-athletes talk to if there are specific concerns or they need individualized guidance?
    Student-athletes can reach out to coaches or campus athletic directors for personalized support.
  3. Is there a designated point person or liaison for athletics in the transition process?
    Yes. The campus athletic director is the individual appointed to ensure communication, support, and clarity throughout the transition period. Additional resources include your coach and the campus Director of Student Affairs.