Meet the Boston Athletic Association’s official qualifying standard for your age and gender
Run a certified marathon course that is eligible for Boston qualifying times
Achieve your qualifying time within the designated qualifying window for the race year you want to enter
Submit a valid Boston Marathon application during the registration period
Be selected if entries exceed the number of available spots, since meeting the standard does not guarantee entry
Ensure your qualifying race results are official and verifiable
Follow all Boston Marathon registration rules and deadlines
Use a qualifying time that is at least as fast as the standard for your age group, with a buffer if possible because cutoff times can apply