With the US Supreme Court’s 2021 Alston decision, college student athletes are now free to manage their name, image and likeness for commercial purposes. This decision does not impact non-student athletes, who have always been free to manage their name, image and likeness, including in a commercial manner.
For guidance on student athletes and NIL, please see UW’s policy on NIL.
For non-student athletes, please review this list of FAQs.
Frequently asked questions
Can a non-student athlete enter paid partnerships with external, non-university entities?
Yes.
Will the university review any arrangements between a non-student athlete and an external, non-university entity?
No. The university strongly recommends that non-student athletes have any contractual arrangements reviewed by their attorney prior to executing the agreement.
Can a non-student athlete use university trademarks in a paid partnership with an external entity?
No. For more information, please see UW’s policy on Use of Institutional Names, Logos, Symbols and Other Trademarks.
What are the university’s trademarks?
The University asserts ownership and all rights, title, and interest in and to its indicia, which includes trademarks, service marks, mascots, slogans and any other indicia that is associated with or refers to the University. A basic, non exhaustive, list can be found here, but if you have questions, please contact the Office of Trademark Licensing.
Can a non-student athlete or an external entity take photos or videos on the UW-Madison campus and use them in a paid partnership?
No. Please see the university’s policy governing film, television and commercial production on campus.
Can a non-student athlete reserve space on campus for an external entity as part of a paid partnership?
No. Please see the university’s policy on Use of Facilities and Land.