Title IX FAQs

Here are some frequently asked questions on Title IX of the Education Amendments of 1972:

What is Title IX?

Title IX of the Education Amendments of 1972 prohibits gender discrimination by schools and others that receive federal education funds. Title IX has been used to assure adequate opportunities for female student athletes and to protect students from sexual harassment.

Who is protected under Title IX?

Title IX helps everyone -- men and women, boys and girls, and students and staff -- in any school or college that gets federal funding. The law prohibits discrimination against anyone on the basis of gender.

Why is it important to enforce Title IX in all physical education and athletic programs?

Athletic programs are considered educational programs under the law. Female students access to educational sports programs is a critical women's health issue.

Who is responsible for enforcing Title IX?

The U.S. Department of Education’s Office for Civil Rights enforces Title IX.

Does Title IX require that equal funds be spent on men and women’s sports?

No. Male and female student-athletes must receive equitable "treatment" and "benefits." The Javitrs Amendment says that legitimate and justifiable non-gender-related differences in sports can be taken into account such as the differing costs of equipment, as long as the quality is the same for both genders.

Are single-sex classes or schools allowed under Title IX?

Title IX does not cover admissions policies in traditionally single-sex public or private colleges and universities or elementary and secondary schools.

How does a school comply with Title IX?

Title IX does not have a rigid quota or participation standard. Schools can show that the proportion of women in athletics is the same as the proportion of women in the general student body; OR can show that they have fully accommodated the interests and abilities of the underrepresented sex OR can show consistent expansion of athletic opportunities for the underrepresented sex over time.

Does Title IX hurt men's programs?

No. Between 1989 and 1993, the participation slots for women increased by 10,000. Participation slots for men increased by 10,000 in the same time period.

Sources: NEA, Women’s Sports Foundation, NCAA, Department of Education