The TCS New York City Marathon is one of the most difficult World Majors to get into. The application window is short (~3 weeks), and unlike some other races, there is no "second chance" draw later in the year.
Race day is the first Sunday of November. The lottery typically opens in early February and closes in late February, with results announced in early March. For the official application and all the details, head to the TCS New York City Marathon website.
Key Dates
- Race Day: Nov 1, 2026
- Lottery Window: Feb 2026
Don't risk missing the window. The dates shift slightly each year. Set up a BibsAlert to get an email the moment the application page goes live.
How to Enter the NYC Marathon
There are four main ways to secure a spot in the NYC Marathon: the general lottery, time qualification, charity entry, or the 9+1 Program.
1. The General Entry Drawing (The Lottery)
For most runners, this is the primary way in. The lottery itself is free to enter, but you'll need to authorize your credit card for the full race fee upfront. You only get charged if you're selected in the drawing. Make sure your card won't expire before results are announced, or the charge will fail and you will lose your spot.
Applicants are divided into three pools: NYC metro area residents (within 60 miles), national applicants (U.S. residents outside the metro area), and international applicants.
2. Time Qualification
If you're fast enough, you might not need luck. But the rules depend on where you ran your qualifying time.
If you hit the standard at an NYRR race (e.g., Fred Lebow Half, NYC Half, Brooklyn Half), you're guaranteed entry. Just claim it during the lottery window.
If you qualified at a different marathon (e.g., Chicago, Berlin, CIM), those spots aren't guaranteed. If more people apply than spots available, NYRR picks the fastest runners in each age and gender category relative to the qualifying standard.
3. Charity Entries
If you miss the lottery, charity spots are a reliable backup. Some charities like NYRR Team for Kids start taking registrations months before the lottery, while most partner charities open up after the results come out in March.
Fundraising minimums usually sit around $3,000 to $5,000, though popular charities or spots that open later in the season might ask for more.
4. The 9+1 Program
Local runners have another option: the 9+1 Program. Run 9 qualifying NYRR races and volunteer at 1 race during the previous year with an active NYRR membership, and you get guaranteed entry for the following year. Claim it during the lottery window.
Didn't Get In?
If you weren't selected in the NYC Marathon lottery, you still have options:
- Charity entries: Many official charity partners offer guaranteed places in exchange for fundraising commitments. Check the official website for partner organizations.
- 9+1 program: Run 9 qualifying NYRR races and volunteer at 1 in the year before, and you get guaranteed entry. This is the most reliable non-lottery path.
- Time qualifier: Runners who meet NYRR qualifying standards get guaranteed entry.
- Try a similar race: Check the related races below for marathons with similar entry types, dates, or locations.
- Apply again next year: Set up a BibsAlert so you don't miss the next entry window.
Frequently Asked Questions
When do I find out if I got in?
The drawing typically takes place in early March. You will likely see a charge on your credit card before you receive the acceptance email.
Can I transfer my entry?
No. The NYC Marathon does not allow transfers to other runners. You may be able to defer to the following year, but you will likely have to pay the entry fee again.
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Looking Ahead
If this year's lottery has closed, the next one typically opens in early February. The window is only about 3 weeks, and the dates shift slightly each year. Set up a BibsAlert to get notified when the next lottery opens.