A Guide to Qualifying Times
What are Qualifying Times?
Qualifying times are minimum performance standards that swimmers must meet to enter certain competitions. They ensure that races are competitive and that swimmers are matched with others of similar ability.
When you enter a gala, you'll do it via our Club Organiser. Only those races you are eligible to take part in will be visible to you. So you never need to worry that you'll get it wrong.
Where will I see Qualifying Times?
Qualifying times are used in lots of different types of gala, for example,
County Championships (like N&D)
Regional Championships (e.g., North East Regionals NERs)
National Meets (e.g., British Nationals, English Nationals)
International Events (e.g., Olympics, World Championships)
Each level has its own set of times, often getting faster as the competition level increases.
What are Qualifying Times based on?
Age groups (e.g., 11–12, 13–14, 15+)
Gender
Stroke and distance (e.g., 50m freestyle vs. 200m butterfly)
Course type:
Long course = 50m poo
Short course = 25m pool
Some meets accept converted times between long and short course formats. You can convert your times here PULL BUOY
Types of Entry Standards
|
Type |
Description |
|
Qualifying Time (QT) |
Minimum time required to enter an event |
|
Consideration Time (CT) |
Slightly slower time; entry may be accepted if space allows
|
|
Upper Cut-Off Time (UCT) |
Maximum time allowed—used to exclude swimmers who are too fast for development meets |
Why do some galas have an upper cut-off time?
Keep the meet developmental: Some competitions are designed for swimmers who are still improving and haven’t yet reached elite levels.
Avoid domination by top swimmers: If national-level athletes enter beginner or intermediate meets, it can discourage younger or less experienced swimmers.
Create fair competition: It ensures swimmers are racing others of similar ability, which makes the meet more enjoyable and meaningful.
How can I qualify for an event?
Swim the required time at a licensed meet (Level 1 or 2 for national events)
Times must be recorded in official rankings, like Swim England's database
Only times achieved within a specific qualifying window count (e.g., from September to January for winter meets)
Why are qualifying times important?
Helps swimmers set goals and track progress
Encourages fair competition
Motivates swimmers to train harder and improve technique