Registration Now Open for the 2026 Boston Marathon
The prestigious Boston Marathon, presented by Bank of America, officially opened registration today, September 8, 2023. This event marks the 130th running of the world’s oldest annual marathon, scheduled for April 20, 2026—coinciding with Patriots’ Day in Massachusetts.
Qualifying Runners Invited to Apply
From today until 5:00 p.m. ET on September 12, qualified runners have the opportunity to submit their applications for the marathon. Unlike in previous years, registration is not on a first-come, first-served basis. All applications received during this five-day window will be reviewed after registration closes.
Eligibility Criteria for Participation
To qualify, runners must have attained a qualifying time from September 1, 2024, until the registration window closes. Entry is limited to those who meet the Boston Marathon qualifying standards based on their age and gender. It is important to note that while qualifying does enhance the likelihood of acceptance, it does not guarantee entry.
Selection Process for Runners
The Boston Athletic Association (B.A.A.) anticipates a field of approximately 30,000 runners. Final selections will depend on each athlete’s performance in relation to the qualifying time. Historical data show that the cutoff standard has fluctuated significantly; for example, in 2019, applicants needed to surpass their qualifying times by 4 minutes and 52 seconds, while in 2021, the cutoff surged to 7 minutes and 47 seconds due to pandemic-related limits on participant numbers.
How to Apply
Interested runners can apply via the B.A.A.’s online platform, Athletes’ Village. The registration fee for U.S. athletes is set at $260 and will only be charged upon official acceptance into the race. Participants also have the option to purchase registration insurance during the application process.
Upcoming Changes and Future Qualifying Events
This registration period also signifies the closure of the qualifying window for the 2026 marathon, but runners looking ahead won’t have to wait long. The B.A.A. has announced that the qualifying period for the 131st Boston Marathon will commence on September 13, 2026, with the same age and gender-specific qualifying standards remaining in effect.
A notable update this year concerns qualification from downhill courses: results from races featuring a net downhill exceeding 1,500 feet (457.2 meters) will no longer qualify for Boston entry. This policy aims to create a level playing field by mitigating the time advantage often gained on downhill courses.
The Boston Marathon: A Coveted Event
As part of the esteemed Abbott World Marathon Majors, alongside world-renowned marathons held in Tokyo, London, Berlin, Sydney, Chicago, and New York City, the Boston Marathon continues to hold a reputation for its prestige, difficulty, and rich history. The event generated an economic impact of over $500 million in the Boston area in 2024, underlining its significance within the local community.
For many runners, this week marks a pivotal moment—while some have already secured their Boston Qualifier (BQ), others are poised to chase their dreams as the new qualifying period begins on Saturday.
Get Involved
For complete details on the registration process and to submit your application, visit baa.org. Whether you are a seasoned marathoner looking to add to your accomplishments or a newcomer determined to make your mark, the Boston Marathon is an iconic race worth pursuing.
