NDSU

When will NDSU begin playing in the Mountain West Conference?

Membership becomes effective July 1, 2026. The Bison will begin FBS play in fall 2026 with an eight-game Mountain West schedule and four non-conference games. The schedule will be announced at a later date.
 

Who is in the Mountain West Conference?

There will be 10 football teams in the Mountain West for the 2026 season: Air Force, Hawaii, Nevada, New Mexico, North Dakota State, Northern Illinois, San Jose State, UNLV, UTEP and Wyoming.
 

When is NDSU eligible for bowl games?

There is a two-year transition period. The Bison will not be eligible for the MW Football Championship Game, College Football Playoff or bowl games until 2028. However, NDSU could be selected for a bowl game if there are not enough bowl-eligible teams nationally.
 

Does the Mountain West have access to the College Football Playoff?

Yes. The highest-ranked team from the Group of 6 conferences, which includes the Mountain West Conference, will get an automatic bid to the 12-team College Football Playoff in 2026.
 

Are season ticket prices going up?

There are no changes to season ticket prices for the 2026 season. Season ticket renewals and new season ticket deposits are currently open on GoBison.com/tickets. Deposits made by April 30 will be eligible for the seat selection process in May. Any remaining season tickets will go on sale June 15.
 

Will students still get free tickets?

There are no immediate changes planned for student tickets or seating areas at NDSU football games. NDSU students may claim one free ticket to all home regular-season games (while supplies last).
 

What are the facility requirements for FBS football?

There are no capacity or attendance requirements for FBS football, so the Fargodome can host FBS football games immediately.
 

Will NDSU add additional football scholarships?

Yes, with additional fundraising we plan to add 22 scholarships for football.
 

How can fans support the FBS move?

Giving to our new Climb The Mountain campaign will directly support a successful transition to the Mountain West by providing funding for scholarships, facilities, football operations and NIL.
 

Does this affect my Team Makers giving level and priority points?

Donations to the Climb The Mountain campaign count toward your Team Makers giving level and earn 1 priority point per $50 donation.
 

How are other NDSU sports affected by this move?

The NDSU wrestling team competes in the Big 12 Conference and all other teams compete in The Summit League. Football reclassification does not affect those memberships.