AIFF Media Team

NEW DELHI: The All India Football Federation (AIFF), on Thursday, September 11, 2025, announced the results of its annual Academy Accreditation Programme, which continues to play a crucial role in strengthening player development and professionalising the football academy ecosystem in India.

A total of 142 academies applied for accreditation this year, out of which seven academies achieved five and four-star ratings.

This year’s accreditation process introduced a number of progressive measures to make the system more inclusive and performance-oriented. For the first time, academies fielding girls’ teams in youth categories were recognised within the accreditation framework, marking a historic step towards gender inclusivity. Every female employee working within the academy ecosystem was also acknowledged with additional points, reinforcing AIFF’s commitment to creating equal opportunities in football.

Performance was another key factor, with academies rewarded for their teams’ results in previous Youth League campaigns. The evaluation further encouraged local player development by awarding points to academies that consistently fielded players developed within their own systems.

In addition, academies that contributed players to the National Teams and the FIFA Talent Development Scheme (TDS) Academy were recognised with bonus points. Grassroots development itself received fresh impetus, as the Blue Cubs League was extended to a 14-week format. Special incentives were also introduced for academies encouraging participation of girl players in grassroots programmes.

Alongside the accreditation results, a new competition structure for the AIFF Youth Leagues was also unveiled to ensure greater inclusivity and a stronger competitive pathway. Under the new system, ISL clubs, I-League clubs, state-nominated academies, and five and four-star accredited academies will receive direct entry into the group stage, and all other academies will compete in the qualifying rounds.

A total of 80 teams will participate in the group stages, which will be divided into 10 geographical groups of eight teams each. Each team will play a minimum of 14 matches in this phase, ensuring consistent game time and development opportunities. The remaining slots in the group stage will be filled by academies progressing from the qualifiers.

Here is the list of accredited academies for the 2025-26 season.