How does the UIL 'No Pass, No Play' rule work?
A student who fails a class (a grade below 70) at the end of a grading period becomes ineligible for extracurricular competition for at least three school weeks. Eligibility can be regained at the next three-week check if all grades are passing. Certain advanced/honors courses are exempt.
"No Pass, No Play" comes from Texas law (Texas Education Code §33.081), and UIL enforces it for interscholastic activities. If a student earns a grade lower than 70 in any class at the end of a grading period, the student is suspended from participation in games, contests, and performances.
The three-week cycle
- The suspension lasts at least three school weeks and begins seven calendar days after the grading period ends.
- Eligibility is checked again at the end of each three-week period. A student who is passing all classes at a check regains eligibility.
- Students may keep practicing during the suspension — they just cannot compete or perform.
Exempt courses
Grades in certain state-approved advanced, honors, dual-credit, and AP/IB courses are exempt from the rule, so a grade below 70 in an exempt course does not trigger ineligibility. Districts publish the list of exempt courses; UIL maintains guidance on which courses qualify.
No Pass, No Play applies to all UIL activities — athletics, marching band, cheer, one-act play, academic contests, and more.
Official sources
Related questions
How long does No Pass No Play ineligibility last?
At least three school weeks. It starts seven calendar days after the grading period ends, and the student can regain eligibility at a three-week check if passing all classes.
Can a failing student still practice?
Yes. Students who are academically ineligible may continue to practice and rehearse; they simply cannot compete in games or perform in contests until eligibility is regained.
Does No Pass No Play apply to band and academics?
Yes. It applies to every UIL extracurricular activity, including marching band, cheer, one-act play, and academic contests — not just athletics.
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