Houghton College student-athletes (SA's) must comply with all NCAA, Empire 8 and Houghton eligibility rules and regulations pertaining to meeting and maintaining athletic eligibility. Any current and incoming student-athlete must complete necessary NCAA compliance and medical paperwork before being cleared to participate in their first practice.

Much of this paperwork must be completed prior to each season of competition and the process is different for first-year student-athletes and those returning for subsequent years.