How to Enter the Chicago Marathon 2027?
Registration is now open for the 49th edition of the Bank of America Chicago Marathon, which will take place on Sunday, October 10, 2027. The application form for runners seeking guaranteed and non-guaranteed entry is now available and will remain open until Thursday, October 29, at 2:00 p.m. CST. Chicago once again offers several entry pathways, including the drawing, time qualifiers, the charity program, and tour operators.
Drawing – Applying for Non-Guaranteed Entry
Runners who do not meet the time qualification standards can enter the drawing for a non-guaranteed spot. Once the application window closes, the organizers will select participants from the pool of applicants. Submitting multiple applications does not increase your chances of being selected, as duplicate entries will be removed before the drawing. Results will be sent by email on December 8. Selected runners must pay the entry fee by December 15; otherwise, their spot will be forfeited.
Runners who are not selected can still secure a place in the race through official charity organizations or tour operators.
Guaranteed Entry – Available Options
The Chicago Marathon offers several ways to secure guaranteed entry. All applications are reviewed by the organizers, and applicants receive an approval decision by email within approximately 10 business days. Once approved, the entry fee must be paid by November 10.
1. Time Qualifier
To qualify through a time standard, runners must provide proof of a completed marathon run between January 1, 2025, and October 29, 2026. The result must meet the qualifying time for the relevant category (men, women, or non-binary). Only races held on certified courses recognized by USATF or World Athletics are accepted. Half-marathon results, 50K races, and other distances are not eligible.
| Age Group | Men | Women | Non-Binary |
|---|---|---|---|
| 16–34 | 2:50:00 | 3:20:00 | 3:20:00 |
| 35–39 | 2:55:00 | 3:25:00 | 3:25:00 |
| 40–44 | 3:00:00 | 3:30:00 | 3:30:00 |
| 45–49 | 3:10:00 | 3:40:00 | 3:40:00 |
| 50–54 | 3:15:00 | 3:50:00 | 3:50:00 |
| 55–59 | 3:25:00 | 3:55:00 | 3:55:00 |
| 60–64 | 3:40:00 | 4:15:00 | 4:15:00 |
| 65–69 | 3:55:00 | 4:30:00 | 4:30:00 |
| 70–74 | 4:15:00 | 4:45:00 | 4:45:00 |
| 75–79 | 4:30:00 | 5:00:00 | 5:00:00 |
| 80+ | 4:50:00 | 5:20:00 | 5:20:00 |
2. Legacy Finisher – 5 Completed Chicago Marathons
Runners who have completed the Chicago Marathon at least five times in the past 10 years may secure a guaranteed spot through the Legacy Finisher program. Only completed races dating back to 2016 count toward eligibility. The 2020 race is recognized, but the virtual edition does not count.
3. Charity Program
Runners can also secure guaranteed entry by running on behalf of an official charity organization. The minimum fundraising commitment is $2,500. The entry fee is $325 for U.S. residents and $335 for runners from outside the United States. Charity program spots are available until September 10, 2027, or until all places have been filled.
4. Tour Operators
Official tour operators offer packages that may include race entry, flights, hotel accommodation, and additional services. Only operators approved by the Chicago Marathon have access to guaranteed entry places. Not every country has a licensed tour operator.
5. Chicago Distance Series
Participants who completed all three events in the 2026 Chicago Distance Series (Shamrock Shuffle 8K, Chicago 13.1, and the Chicago Marathon) receive guaranteed entry to the 2027 edition.
6. Deferral From 2026 to 2027
Runners who officially deferred their 2026 entry to 2027 in accordance with the race rules must submit a new application. The entry fee must be paid again, except for participants covered by the pregnancy and postpartum policy.
7. High Performance Program
The program for elite-level runners offers 300 spots. The qualifying time requirements are:
| Category | Qualifying Time |
|---|---|
| Men | Sub-2:25:00 |
| Women | Sub-2:45:00 |
| Non-Binary | Sub-2:45:00 |
| Masters – Men | Sub-2:35:00 |
| Masters – Women | Sub-2:50:00 |
| Masters – Non-Binary | Sub-2:50:00 |
Chicago Marathon 2027 Entry Fees
| Category | Entry Fee |
|---|---|
| U.S. Residents – Standard Entry | $250 |
| Runners Outside the U.S. – Standard Entry | $260 |
| U.S. Residents – Charity Entry | $325 |
| Runners Outside the U.S. – Charity Entry | $335 |
Analysis, results, news, and comprehensive coverage of the Chicago Marathon on WorldMarathoner.com
Source: Chicago Marathon
