17 Ways To Qualify For The New York City Marathon
Each November, runners from around the world run through the five boroughs of New York City in the New York City Marathon. It is one of the World Marathon Majors and often represents the pinnacle of achievement in the running world. Over 55,000 New York City Marathon runners started the race in 2024.
Similar to the various qualification methods for the Boston Marathon or the Tokyo Marathon qualifying methods, the New York City Marathon has multiple entry points.
We’ve compiled a comprehensive guide with every way you can qualify for the New York City Marathon including the New York Marathon qualifying times. So lace up your running shoes and read on!
Table of Contents
Who are the New York Road Runners?
The New York Road Runners (NYRR) is an organization that owns and operates many high-profile races in and around New York City, including the New York City Marathon. They are a membership community and offer membership perks, some of which can help you gain entry into the NYC Marathon.
The NYRR is often referred to as the “Road Runners Club”. If you see NYRR mentioned, we’re referring to the New York Road Runners.
When is the NYC Marathon?
November 1, 2026. Runners start in waves based on estimated finishing time.
The race officially begins at 8AM EST with the Professional Wheelchair Division.
NYC Marathon Cost to Enter
For NYRR members, it’s $255. Non-members pay $315.
Every Way to Qualify For the New York City Marathon
If you’re an aspiring runner with your sights set on conquering the NYC Marathon, you might be wondering just how you can earn your spot on that iconic starting line.
New York Marathon Qualifying Times
One of the most common ways to secure entry is by beating the New York Marathon qualifying times in a certified marathon race. The time standards vary depending on your age and gender but generally fall within a competitive range.
The NYC marathon qualifying times will need to have been attained during the previous year from January 1 to December 31 (If your result was attained in the 2024 calendar year, you qualify for the 2025 race).
NOTE – 2024 was the last year that certified half-marathon qualifying times will be accepted. Starting in 2025, only non-NYRR full marathon times will count toward qualifying.
Men Standards
| Age | Marathon | Half-Marathon |
|---|---|---|
| 18-34 | 2:53:00 | 1:21:00 |
| 35-39 | 2:55:00 | 1:23:00 |
| 40-44 | 2:58:00 | 1:25:00 |
| 45-49 | 3:05:00 | 1:28:00 |
| 50-54 | 3:14:00 | 1:32:00 |
| 55-59 | 3:23:00 | 1:36:00 |
| 60-64 | 3:34:00 | 1:41:00 |
| 65-69 | 3:45:00 | 1:46:00 |
| 70-74 | 4:10:00 | 1:57:00 |
| 75-79 | 4:30:00 | 2:07:00 |
| 80+ | 4:55:00 | 2:15:00 |
Women & Non-Binary Standards
| Age | Marathon | Half-Marathon |
|---|---|---|
| 18-34 | 3:13:00 | 1:32:00 |
| 35-39 | 3:15:00 | 1:34:00 |
| 40-44 | 3:26:00 | 1:37:00 |
| 45-49 | 3:38:00 | 1:42:00 |
| 50-54 | 3:51:00 |