The All India Football Federation (AIFF) has received a total of 109 applications from various clubs and academies across the country, at the closure of the application window for AIFF Academy Accreditation for 2018/19. The Academy Accreditation application window was open from January 19, 2018 to April 16, 2018 and as compared to last season, the process saw an increase of 55% in applications inclusive of a total of 55 applications from new entities.

The Academy Accreditation process is into its fourth year and now forms an an eligibility criteria for participation of clubs and academies in the AIFF Youth Leagues. The applications received consist of clubs and academies under twenty State Associations

The applications received will be assessed based on the requirements and eligibility criteria which will involve a physical inspection process by designated AIFF Officials after which each entity will receive a star rating upon passing. Academies having already undergone an inspection process of the the facilities last season might be exempted from the same.

An academy can receive upto 5 stars upon assessment of all criteria that defines its structure and Modus Operandi. Upon passing the accreditation process, an academy becomes eligible to participate in the Youth Leagues as per their star rating. It should also be noted that passing the Academy Accreditation process does not guarantee a club or academy to play in the AIFF Youth Leagues.

(AIFF Media)