Demand for a bib on Hopkinton’s starting line continues to surge. The Boston Athletic Association (B.A.A.) has announced that 33,656 qualified athletes applied for the 131st Boston Marathon presented by Bank of America during registration week, held September 14–18.
The total marks an increase over last year’s 33,267 qualified applicants for the 2026 race. Runners from all 50 U.S. states and 129 countries submitted applications to secure a spot for the historic race on Patriots’ Day, April 19, 2027.
The Waiting Game Begins
Because field size limitations cap the total number of qualified runners, achieving an official Boston Qualifying (BQ) time does not automatically guarantee entry.
Over the next few weeks, B.A.A. officials will audit and verify all submitted times. Official notices of acceptance or non-acceptance will be sent via email by early October.
B.A.A. President and CEO Jack Fleming expressed gratitude for the global response:
“All around the world, athletes have circled Patriots’ Day and the 131st Boston Marathon presented by Bank of America on their running calendars, hoping to participate in the world’s oldest annual marathon. We’re excited to welcome future Boston Marathoners into the race soon.”
Key Takeaways for Applicants
- No Speculative Cut-Offs: The B.A.A. does not predict the time buffer needed under the official standard to earn a bib.
- New “Boston Qualifier Selection”: For 2027, athletes who miss the traditional buffer cut-off are automatically entered into a new, secondary selection draw. Approximately 1,000 qualifiers will be selected through this pathway, giving more athletes a chance to participate.
- Payment Authorization: Credit cards provided during registration have been pre-authorized but will only be charged if an application is formally accepted after verification.
- Registration Remains Closed: Registration for the 2027 race will not re-open. Applicants are asked to refrain from contacting Athlete Services to check on entry status unless prompted.
Looking Ahead to 2028
For runners already turning their focus to the 132nd Boston Marathon on April 17, 2028, the qualifying window opened on September 19, 2026.
The qualifying standards for 2028 match those used for 2027. However, the B.A.A. notes that time indexes for downhill courses—those with a net-elevation drop of 1,500 feet (457.2 meters) or more—remain subject to adjustment ahead of the 2028 registration window.
