A Student-Athlete’s Guide: How to File a Title IX Complaint in College Sports

Filing a Title IX complaint is one of the main ways athletes can protect their rights. Complaints can be about unequal athletic opportunities, scholarship distribution, facilities, publicity, or sexual harassment or assault. While schools are required to have a Title IX coordinator, athletes can also go directly to the federal Office for Civil Rights (OCR). Knowing the process helps you make informed choices and protects you from retaliation.

How do I file a Title IX complaint?

Start by contacting your school’s Title IX coordinator, who is required by law to be accessible and publicly listed. You’ll need to provide details about the inequity, misconduct, or violation you are reporting. If you don’t want to go through the school, you can also file a complaint with the U.S. Department of Education’s OCR online.

Filing a complaint externally may trigger a federal investigation, but schools are expected to resolve issues internally first. Document everything so you have a clear record of your concerns.

How long do I have to report a Title IX issue?

Schools generally accept complaints at any time while a student is still being affected. However, OCR requires complaints to be filed within 180 days of the alleged violation. Extensions may be granted for good cause, but it’s always best to act promptly to preserve your rights.

What evidence do I need to prove a Title IX violation?

Evidence could include documents, schedules, statistics, statements, or promotional materials demonstrating unequal treatment. For example, comparing practice facilities, travel budgets, or scholarship data across men’s and women’s teams can be persuasive documentation. Witnesses and personal experiences can also support a claim.

The strength of a complaint often depends not just on one small inequity, but on the overall pattern of disparities you can demonstrate.

What happens after I file a Title IX complaint?

The school must quickly investigate, interview witnesses, review evidence, and seek a resolution. They are required to provide supportive measures like no-contact orders or academic accommodations if necessary. If you file with OCR, the federal government may conduct its own investigation and issue compliance orders.

The process can feel slow, but schools are bound to timelines and must update you about the progress of your complaint.

Can I file anonymously?

Yes, but anonymity may limit the school’s ability to fully investigate. OCR also accepts confidential complaints, which allow the government to investigate systemic issues without attaching your name publicly. Consult your Title IX Coordinator or legal counsel to determine if anonymous or confidential reporting is the best option.

Will filing a complaint affect my playing time or scholarship?

No. Retaliation for filing, participating in, or supporting a Title IX complaint is prohibited. Schools cannot punish you through reduced playing time, loss of scholarship, or other retaliation because you asserted your legal rights. If retaliation occurs, that itself is another Title IX violation.