Cincinnati, OH -- (Sports Network) - University of Cincinnati quarterback Ben Mauk had his application for a sixth year of eligibility denied by the NCAA Thursday.

The NCAA staff denied Mauk's application for an extension of eligibility based on an NCAA bylaw that says a redshirt year is considered within the control of the student-athlete and/or institution and does not constitute a missed participation opportunity.

"Situations like this are hard when I know how dedicated Ben's life has been to football," Cincinnati coach Brian Kelly said. "It's unfortunate, but all things considered, he will handle this and continue his career in football whether it be playing or coaching. He will always be a member of the Bearcats."

In January of 2008, Mauk attempted to regain the year he lost in 2003 when he sat out the season at Wake Forest University. Although his redshirt season occurred four seasons ago, Mauk was not able to apply for the additional year until the completion of his normal eligibility.

Mauk spent four years at Wake Forest before graduating and transferring to Cincinnati for the 2007-08 academic year. He sat out the 2003 season as a redshirt and played in 18 games for the Demon Deacons from 2004-06. He broke his right arm and dislocated his shoulder in the first game of the 2006 season at Wake Forest, and missed the entire season.

Mauk played in 12 of 13 games with Cincinnati during the 2007 season, and set a program record with 31 passing touchdowns. He helped lead UC to 10-3 record including a victory in the Papajohns.com Bowl.

The graduate-transfer ended the year completing 235-of-386 passes for 3,121 yards.