The NYC Marathon lottery is the most popular way to enter the world’s largest marathon, with hundreds of thousands of applicants vying for a spot each year. Here’s your complete guide to every entry method — from the general drawing to qualifying times, charity bibs, and guaranteed entry routes.
The window to enter the 2026 TCS New York City Marathon opens in just a few months, and with demand higher than ever, understanding the different entry paths, requirements, and key dates is essential.
Whether you’re a first-timer hoping to get lucky in the drawing, an NYRR member chasing guaranteed entry, or an international runner eyeing a charity or tour package, here’s everything you need to know about how to secure your spot on the Verrazzano Bridge next November.
Non-Guaranteed General Entry Drawing (Lottery)
The most common path into the NYC Marathon is the general entry drawing, open February 4–25, 2026, with results announced on March 4, 2026. Applicants are split into three groups: local runners (within about 60 miles of NYC), U.S. residents outside the metro area, and international applicants.
If you’re selected in the drawing, your credit or debit card will be automatically charged the full entry fee—there’s no opt-out once chosen. Historically, only a small percentage of applicants are selected each year, making this route highly competitive.
For NYRR members, applying for the drawing also provides automatic entry into the Member-Only Second-Chance Drawing, which takes place on the same day.
Guaranteed Entry Methods
Runners who meet certain performance, participation, or membership criteria can bypass the drawing and secure guaranteed entry. All guaranteed runners must claim their entry during the official claim period, February 4–25, 2026.
9+1 Program (NYRR Members)
NYRR members can earn guaranteed entry by completing nine qualifying races and volunteering at one NYRR event during 2025. To be eligible, you must have an active membership by December 31, 2025. Once you’ve completed the 9+1 requirements, you’ll claim your 2026 entry during the February window.
Time-Qualifying Standards
Runners who meet specific time standards in 2025—either at eligible NYRR events or other certified full marathons—can apply for guaranteed entry. For non-NYRR races, the application period is February 4–11, 2026, and entries are limited. Meeting the qualifying time does not automatically guarantee a spot, as demand can exceed availability.
Cancellations from 2025
If you properly cancelled your 2025 NYC Marathon entry following NYRR’s official cancellation policy, you’re eligible for guaranteed entry in 2026. You must claim your spot during the February 4–25 claim period.
15-Plus Finishers
Runners who have completed 15 or more New York City Marathons earn lifetime guaranteed entry for future years, provided they submit their claim during the February 4–25 window.
Philanthropic Memberships
NYRR offers 5K and 10K Philanthropic Memberships that include guaranteed marathon entry, plus hospitality perks and entry to other NYRR events like the NYC Half and Brooklyn Half. These memberships support NYRR’s community programs and are available year-round.
Charity and International Options
Official Charity Partners
Another popular route is through one of NYRR’s Official Charity Partners, which allow runners to earn guaranteed entry by fundraising for an approved organization. The charity list for 2026 will be announced in spring 2026.
The NYRR Team for Kids program, which opened registration on October 26, 2025, requires a fundraising minimum of $3,000 USD plus standard registration fees. In return, runners receive training support, a singlet, and VIP perks on race day.
International Tour Operators
Non-U.S. residents can secure guaranteed entry through Official International Tour Operators, which bundle race entry with travel or accommodation packages. Details for 2026 will be released in early 2026, and availability varies by country.
Virtual Guaranteed Entry
Runners who were selected for and completed the 2025 Virtual TCS New York City Marathon – Guaranteed Entry Tier will automatically earn non-complimentary guaranteed entry for the 2026 in-person race, provided they claim their entry during the February 4–25 window.
Entry Fees and Financial Details
While 2026 fees haven’t been finalized, 2025 rates can serve as a guide:
- NYRR members: $255 USD
- Non-members (U.S.): $315 USD
- International runners: typically around $350 USD
All entry fees are non-refundable and non-transferable. If you apply for the lottery and are selected, your card will be charged automatically. For charity entries, expect to cover both the race registration fee and the required fundraising minimum (usually between $2,500 and $3,000 USD, depending on the charity).
Key Dates for 2026 NYC Marathon Entry
| Date | Entry Event |
|---|---|
| October 26, 2025 | NYRR Team for Kids charity registration opens |
| November 10, 2025 | Deadline for NYRR’s Race Free program applications |
| February 4–25, 2026 | General entry drawing window and guaranteed entry claim period (9+1, time-qualifiers, cancellations, 15-plus finishers) |
| February 4–11, 2026 | Non-NYRR time-qualifier application period |
| March 4, 2026 | Drawing and second-chance drawing results announced |
| Spring 2026 | Charity partner list and International Tour Operator packages announced |
Planning Ahead
The NYC Marathon is one of the most sought-after races on the planet, and with more than 50,000 runners each year, competition for entry is fierce. The key to success is timing—decide early which route fits your situation, mark the relevant deadlines, and prepare any qualifying races or volunteer credits during 2025.
If you’re based outside the U.S., look for international tour packages or charity entries when they open in spring 2026. For U.S. runners, consider joining NYRR early to take advantage of the 9+1 or time-qualifier options.
The 2026 NYC Marathon will take place on Sunday, November 1, 2026. Start planning now, because by the time the entry window opens in February, the clock will already be ticking toward the world’s most iconic marathon start line on the Verrazzano Bridge.
