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In the world of college football, referees play a crucial role in ensuring that the game is played fairly and according to the rules. But how much do these officials make for their efforts on the field? Let's delve into the financial aspects of being a college football referee.

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Payment Structure

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Unlike their counterparts in the NFL, college football referees are typically not full-time employees of the NCAA or any specific conference. Instead, they are paid on a per-game basis. This means that their earnings can vary depending on the number of games they officiate each season and the level of competition they are overseeing.

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Earnings Breakdown

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The pay for college football referees can vary significantly based on the division and conference they officiate in. Here is a general breakdown:

Division I (FBS): Referees in the Football Bowl Subdivision (FBS), which includes the major conferences like the SEC, Big Ten, and ACC, can earn between $2,000 and $3,000 per game. For a full season, which typically includes around 12 games, a referee can earn between $24,000 and $36,000.

Division I (FCS): Referees in the Football Championship Subdivision (FCS) tend to make slightly less, with per-game earnings ranging from $1,000 to $2,000. Over a full season, this translates to earnings of $12,000 to $24,000.

Division II and Division III: Referees in these divisions typically make less than their Division I counterparts. Per-game earnings can range from $300 to $800 in Division II and $200 to $400 in Division III.

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Additional Considerations

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In addition to their per-game pay, college football referees may also receive compensation for travel expenses, meals, and lodging when they are officiating games away from home. However, they are generally responsible for their own uniforms and equipment.
It's also worth noting that many college football referees have full-time jobs outside of officiating, as the per-game pay and seasonal nature of the work do not typically provide enough income to support a full-time career.

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Conclusion

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Being a college football referee can be a rewarding side job or passion project, especially for those who love the sport. While the pay may not be as high as in professional leagues like the NFL, college football referees still earn a respectable income for their work on the field, with the added benefit of being part of the excitement and tradition of college football.

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