An NCAA dead period is a stretch of the calendar when college coaches can't have in-person contact with recruits or their families — no campus visits, no off-campus meetings, no face-to-face conversations. What it does not stop is communication: coaches can generally still call, email, and message during a dead period.
Dead periods exist to keep the recruiting calendar fair and to spare recruits constant in-person pressure. The practical takeaway for families: check the current dates before you plan an official or unofficial visit, so a trip isn't wasted.
Frequently asked
Can coaches text or call during a dead period?
Generally yes. A dead period restricts in-person contact, not phone, email, or messaging. Only face-to-face contact is off-limits — confirm the current rules for your division and sport.