MINOT, N.D. — Minot State University says the NCAA has approved its plans to become a member.

The school says it will be a candidate for NCAA Division II, making the switch from the NAIA.

Athletic director Rick Hedberg says Minot State will have three years to make the transition before becoming a full-fledged NCAA member.

The Beavers currently are members of the Dakota Athletic Conference. They hope to join the Northern Sun Conference in NCAA Division II.