Student-athletes in the state of Florida may earn compensation for use of their name, image or likeness (NIL) without affecting their athletics eligibility or grant-in-aid. Student-athletes earning NIL compensation must do so in accordance with the Florida NIL Law (Section 1006.74, Florida Statutes).
State law requires that NIL compensation must be commensurate with market value and cannot be provided in exchange for athletics performance or attendance at FSU.
NIL compensation may only be provided by a third party unaffiliated with FSU.
Employees of Florida State University and its direct support organizations (including coaches and athletics staff members) cannot compensate, assist, or arrange for compensation to be directed to a current or prospective student-athlete.
All NIL deals (including paid, unpaid or in-kind) must be reported to FSU through the INFLCR app. This disclosure is required under state law and is not intended to be an approval process. INFLCR Reporting Instructions
Use of FSU trademarks and logos (including all aspects of the uniform) for NIL activities can only occur after obtaining a written agreement from either Seminole Sports Properties, CLC, or the FSU Office of Trademark Licensing (authority dependent upon intended use). Approval process is outlined here.
Use of campus facilities or grounds for NIL activities requires written authorization from FSU. Commercial film or photography requires additional approval from the Office of University Communications. Authorized use may necessitate additional requirements, including certification of insurance, payment of applicable rental fees, etc.
State law prohibits student-athletes from entering into a contract for NIL compensation that conflicts with a term in an FSU team contract.
NIL compensation activities may not occur during department or team related activities.
Student-athletes should fully evaluate any potential consequences to their personal brand before engaging in NIL activities, in particular those involving gambling/sports wagering, alcohol, tobacco, marijuana/CBD, athletic performance-enhancing supplements, and adult entertainment.
Student-athletes may only use an athlete agent or attorney for the purposes of securing NIL compensation. Student-athletes cannot secure agents or attorneys for the purpose of future representation in professional sports without risking their athletics eligibility. Any agent used for NIL purposes must be licensed in the state of Florida, and any attorney used for NIL purposes must be a member in good standing of The Florida Bar. Additionally, all athlete agents and attorneys must register with the Florida State University Athletics Compliance Office.
In accordance with state law, the length of a contract for NIL compensation or representation may not extend beyond the student-athlete’s participation in intercollegiate athletics.
A student-athlete under the age of 18 must satisfy Florida statutes 743.08 and 743.09 when entering into a contract for NIL compensation.
All international student-athletes should consult with the FSU Center for Global Engagement or a personal attorney before entering into an NIL compensation agreement to protect against any potential immigration issues.
Eligibility for Pell Grant and all other forms of need-based financial aid could be impacted by receipt of NIL compensation. Questions should be directed to the FSU Office of Financial Aid.
Please be aware that your NIL activities may have personal tax implications. These obligations are dependent upon individual circumstances and may require consultation with a tax professional.
