What is the UIL age limit for high school sports?
A student is not eligible for UIL varsity athletics if they turn 19 on or before September 1 of the current school year. There is a narrow disability exception that a student can apply for through the UIL waiver process.
UIL sets an age ceiling for varsity athletic eligibility. A student who is 19 years of age or older on or before September 1 preceding the contest is not eligible to compete at the varsity level for that school year.
Why the rule exists
The age rule keeps competition fair and safe by preventing older students from competing against significantly younger ones. It is applied strictly, so verify a student's birth date against the September 1 cutoff before the season.
The disability exception
A student who is over the age limit because of a disability may apply for a waiver. The waiver is granted only under specific conditions and must be requested through UIL's Waiver process before participation. Approval is not automatic.
Confirm each student's eligibility with your compliance officer and the current Constitution & Contest Rules, because age eligibility is one of the most common sources of forfeits.
Official sources
Related questions
What is the age cutoff date for UIL eligibility?
September 1. A student who is 19 or older on or before September 1 of the school year is ineligible for varsity athletics that year.
Is there any exception to the UIL age limit?
Yes, a narrow disability exception. A student over the age limit due to a disability may apply for a UIL waiver, which is granted only under specific conditions.
Does the age rule apply to junior high athletics?
Junior high has its own separate age and grade eligibility standards in the UIL rules for elementary and junior high participation.
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