The FA Player Dispensation Process

Latest information on Player Dispensation & how to apply

What is the dispensation application policy?

The Policy enables children with a disability, Significant Physical Development Delay (SPDD),Mental Health, Chronic illness, Issues with availability, special individual circumstances or who are schooled no more than one year behind the age group prescribed by their date of birth (their “prescribed age group”) to play football outside of their prescribed age group.

Why is this policy needed? 

The FA’s Rules prescribe age groups for children to play in which are designed to ensure that they compete with peers of similar size and development. For some children however, playing in the prescribed age group would put them at a substantial disadvantage to their teammates, discouraging them from being involved or making it impossible for them to access football.

To apply for dispensation for your child to play outside of their prescribed age group, please fill out our dispensation application form along with supporting evidence to support the rationale for your application.

Who is covered by the policy?

Any child who:

• Has a disability
• Has significant physical development delay ( SPDD)
• Has mental health or Chronic illness
• Is schooled no more then one year behind their prescribed age group and would be be at a disadvantage if required to play to in their prescribed age group
• Availability of Opportunity; Those who have no available opportunity within their permitted age group and chosen pathway (male, female, mixed, disability). You can find out more information around this new category along with further examples of who is eligible under availability of opportunity
• Talent Development; Those who have individual and specific needs, to play outside of their permitted age group provides them with the best opportunity to develop as a player that is within the talent system (girls) or has been recently released (boys). You can find out more information around the new individual needs category along with who is eligible – Click here