APPLY

• TIME QUALIFIER

  If you meet the marathon qualifying standards outlined below, you can guarantee your spot in the 2027 Bank of America Chicago Marathon as a time qualifier.

  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 and over	4:50:00	5:20:00	5:20:00

  Registration requirements

  • Applicants must submit results records for a marathon completed during the qualifying window (January 1, 2025, to October 29, 2026). The results documentation must include a finish time completed within the qualifying time standards and application division (men, women or non-binary).
  • Documentation submitted outside of the qualifying standards will not be considered.
  • Documentation submitted outside of the division (men, women or non-binary) for which you are applying will not be considered.
  • Finish times at race distances other than a marathon, such as a half marathon or 50K, will not be considered.
  • A verifiable time is one run on a certified course, those certified by USA Track & Field (USATF), World Athletics or a similar governing association; considerations will not be made for non-certified races, weather or course conditions.
  • The qualifying times above are based upon each athlete’s age on the date of the 2027 Bank of America Chicago Marathon (October 10, 2027).
  • The standards introduced for non-binary applicants are inclusive of the qualifying times for the two previously existing divisions. Applicants can expect standards to adjust in the coming years as data becomes available to help inform future qualifying times. Discussions with non-binary athletes are ongoing, with the goal of creating more inclusive event experiences.

• LEGACY FINISHER

  If you have finished the Bank of America Chicago Marathon five or more times within the last 10 years you can guarantee your spot in the 2027 Bank of America Chicago Marathon as a legacy finisher.

  • Chicago Marathon finishes prior to 2016 will not be considered.
  • 2020 Bank of America Chicago Marathon registered participants will be considered a 2020 finisher for this legacy application path.
  • 2020 Bank of America Chicago Marathon Virtual Experience finishes will not be considered.
  • Years (2016-2019 and 2021 – 2026) in which someone signed up for, but did not finish, the Chicago Marathon will not be considered.
  • Finishes at marathons other than the Chicago Marathon will not be considered.
  • Individuals who will qualify as legacy finishers after completing the 2026 Chicago Marathon should submit their 2027 application after finishing the 2026 event.

• CHARITY

  Individuals who are interested in running and fundraising on behalf of an official event charity can guarantee their spot in the 2027 Bank of America Chicago Marathon. Charity program entries are available on a first-come first-served basis until Friday, September 10, 2027, or when the charity has reached its capacity, whichever comes first.

  Each charity manages its own unique charity team, participant benefits and fundraising requirements. While fundraising requirements may vary from charity to charity, participants are required to raise no less than $2,500 (USD). The entry fee for Charity Program is $325 for U.S. residents and $335 for Non-U.S. residents.

  Only charities that are part of the official Bank of America Chicago Marathon Charity Program have access to guaranteed entries.

  If you are interested in running for charity you should contact the charity of your choice via the 2027 Charity Index.

• TOUR OPERATORS

  If you are interested in traveling and running with a tour operator, you can guarantee your spot in the 2027 Bank of America Chicago Marathon.

  • Each tour operator manages its own unique tour.
  • Tour operators typically offer participants a package that includes cost of entry, air travel, hotel, etc. and vary between tour operators.
  • Only tour operators that are part of the official Chicago Marathon Tour Operator Program have access to guaranteed entries.
  • Not all countries have approved Chicago Marathon tour operators.
  • If you are interested in joining a tour, you should contact the tour operator of your choice.

  More information on this application will be available on Tuesday, December 8.

  Please note, this application will remain open through Tuesday, August 10, 2027.

• BANK OF AMERICA CHICAGO DISTANCE SERIES

  If you completed all three 2026 Bank of America Chicago Distance Series events (Shamrock Shuffle 8K Run, Chicago 13.1 and Chicago Marathon), you can guarantee your spot in the 2027 Bank of America Chicago Marathon.

  Eligible individuals will receive an email with instructions on how to access their entry on Tuesday, October 13. If you’re eligible for this entry path and didn’t receive an email, please contact the event by emailing office@chicagomarathon.com.

• 2026 CANCELLED ENTRY

  If you successfully completed the process to cancel your 2026 Bank of America Chicago Marathon entry to 2027 through our standard event policy, you must submit a 2027 application to guarantee your spot in the 2027 Bank of America Chicago Marathon. Participants will be required to pay the entry fee again.

  Eligible individuals will receive an email with instructions on how to access their entry on Thursday, October 8. If you’re eligible for this entry path and didn’t receive an email, please contact the event by emailing office@chicagomarathon.com.

  Learn more about the Bank of America Chicago Marathon’s Cancellation Policy for registered participants.

• PREGNANCY AND POSTPARTUM POLICY

  If you successfully completed the process to cancel your 2026 Bank of America Chicago Marathon entry through the event’s Pregnancy and Postpartum Policy, you must submit a 2027 application to guarantee your spot in the 2027 Bank of America Chicago Marathon. Participants will not be required to pay the entry fee again.

  Eligible individuals will receive an email with instructions on how to access their entry on Thursday, October 8. If you’re eligible for this entry path and didn’t receive an email, please contact the event by emailing office@chicagomarathon.com.

  Learn more about the Bank of America Chicago Marathon’s Pregnancy and Postpartum Policy.

• HIGH PERFORMANCE PROGRAM

  If you meet the qualifying standards outlined below you can guarantee your spot in the 2027 Bank of America Chicago Marathon through the High Performance Program.

  Qualifying standards	Marathon
  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

   

  Registration requirements

  • Applicants must submit results for a marathon completed on or after January 1, 2025. The results documentation must include a finish time completed within the qualifying time standards and division (men, women or non-binary).
  • Finish times at race distances other than a marathon will not be considered.
  • A verifiable time is one run on a course certified by USA Track & Field (USATF), World Athletics or a similar governing association; considerations will not be made for non-certified races, weather or course conditions.
  • Masters athletes are age 40 and over.
  • Masters athletes must have achieved the standard as a masters athlete
  • The standards introduced for non-binary applicants are inclusive of the qualifying times for the two previously existing divisions. Applicants can expect standards to adjust in the coming years as data becomes available to help inform future qualifying times. Discussions with non-binary athletes are ongoing, with the goal of creating more inclusive event experiences.
  • The program has a capacity of 300 participants.
  • Registration for the High Performance Program will close on September 1, 2027, or when the program reaches a capacity of 300 participants, whichever comes first.
  • Participants will pay a reduced registration fee.

2027 APPLICATION FAQs

• 2027 EVENT FAQs

  When is the 2027 Bank of America Chicago Marathon?

  The 49th running of the Bank of America Chicago Marathon will take place on Sunday, October 10, 2027.

  What are my options if I sign up and can’t participate?

  Registered participants will have the opportunity to cancel their entry and access a guaranteed entry for the 2028 Bank of America Chicago Marathon. All event fees (entry, ancillary products, etc.) are non-refundable and will not be applied to future participation. Participants who select this option must complete the 2028 application process and pay the 2028 entry fee to redeem their guaranteed entry. Please note, this opportunity will not be available to participants who received a guaranteed entry through charity or tour group applications, nor will it be available to those who cancelled their 2026 registration to 2027.

  Individuals will also have the option to purchase refundable booking during the application process.

  Learn more about the options available to registered participants if they choose not to participate.

  Are participants required to pick up their race materials in person?

  Yes. All participants are required to pick up their own participant packet (bib number and timing device) at the Abbott Health & Fitness Expo during the scheduled hours of operation. All participants are required to show a government-issued photo ID that reflects the name they used to register upon picking up their own participant packet.

  Does the Bank of America Chicago Marathon have a recommended training plan?

  Yes. The Bank of America Chicago Marathon offers an official 18-week training program developed by Nike coaches. The program is made to be adaptive and customized to fit in with your daily schedule and needs. View training plan information.

  Does the Bank of America Chicago Marathon offer race day hospitality?

  The event offers a variety of race day hospitality options, including the Skyline Hospitality Tent, Pre-Race Participant Fast Track and Finish Line Viewing. Hospitality products will be available for purchase in advance of the event.

  When will future runnings of the Bank of America Chicago Marathon take place?

  To create consistency and predictability for community members impacted by the Bank of America Chicago Marathon, the Chicago Marathon takes place on the second Sunday of October. View anticipated dates for future runnings of the Chicago Marathon. Please note that these dates are subject to change.

• GENERAL APPLICATION FAQs

  What is the difference between a guaranteed entry and a non-guaranteed entry?

  A guaranteed entry ensures you a spot in the field for the 2027 Bank of America Chicago Marathon, provided that you agree to the terms of that entry (Charity Program, Tour Operators) or that you qualify for that entry (Chicago Marathon Legacy Finisher, Time Qualifier, Bank of America Chicago Distance Series Finisher, 2026 Cancelled entry, High Performance Program or Para Athletics Program).

  A non-guaranteed entry is subject to selection through a drawing.

  What are the application deadlines?

  • Thursday, October 8 at 8 a.m. (U.S. Central Time): Applications for the guaranteed and non-guaranteed entry paths open.
  • Thursday, October 29 at 2 p.m. (U.S. Central Time): Guaranteed and non-guaranteed entry applications close.
  • Tuesday, December 8: Non-guaranteed entry applicants notified via email of their entry status throughout the day.

  Learn more about the different application paths.

  What is the entry fee for the 2027 race?

  The entry fee reflects the cost and the resources required to stage a world-class marathon. Every dollar that is collected through registration is invested back into the event to help cover these expenses and to enhance the overall participant experience.

  • U.S. residents (those who live in one of the 50 states, the District of Columbia, Puerto Rico or other U.S. territories): $250 (USD)
  • Non-U.S. residents: $260 (USD)
  • U.S. residents (those who live in one of the 50 states, the District of Columbia, Puerto Rico or other U.S. territories), charity: $325 (USD)
  • Non-U.S. residents, charity: $335 (USD)

  The additional cost incorporated into the entry fee for charity entries will directly support the Charity Program.

  A processing fee is applied to all entry fees.

  If my application is approved, when do I pay my entry fee?

  The entry fee is collected after application approval. Approved applicants must complete the payment process in order to register for the 2027 Bank of America Chicago Marathon. Approved applicants who do not complete the payment process by the deadline will not be registered for the event and will not be assigned a bib.

  Why does the registration form ask me if I would like to submit a qualifying time for a start corral?

  The event provides participants with the opportunity to submit a start corral qualifying time at the point of application to ensure appropriate corral placement should the application be approved or selected for the 2027 Bank of America Chicago Marathon. Participants who do not submit a time during the application process will receive a preliminary start corral assignment at the event’s discretion.

  Why is a processing fee applied to the entry fee at the point of registration?

  The processing fee included at the point of registration is charged by the registration service for providing its software and services. This processing fee is non-refundable in all circumstances.

  I identify as non-binary. Will I be able to select non-binary as a gender option when registering?

  Yes. The Bank of America Chicago Marathon introduced the opportunity for applicants to register as a non-binary participant during the 2022 application process. Discussions are ongoing with non-binary athletes to ensure we’re creating an inclusive event experience. We invite you to share your feedback with our team at office@chicagomarathon.com.

  I’m hesitant to sign up a year before the 2027 Bank of America Chicago Marathon. Will there be opportunities to sign up closer to the event date?

  Individuals who are interested in signing up closer to the event may do so by running and fundraising on behalf of a charity. Each charity manages its own unique charity team, participant benefits and fundraising requirements. While fundraising requirements may vary from charity to charity, participants are required to raise no less than $2,500 (USD). Charity program entries are available on a first-come first-served basis until Tuesday, September 10, 2027, or when the charity has reached its capacity, whichever comes first. Individuals can also take part by joining a tour operator group that is part of the official Bank of America Chicago Marathon Tour Operator program.

  What happens if my friend or family member gets selected and I don’t?

  The person who did not receive an entry through the drawing has the opportunity to access a guaranteed entry by registering with the event’s official Charity or Tour Operator Programs.

• CHARITY AND TOUR OPERATOR PROGRAM APPLICATION FAQs

  What are the requirements of running for charity at the 2027 Bank of America Chicago Marathon?

  Each charity manages its own unique charity team, participant benefits and fundraising requirements. While fundraising requirements may vary from charity to charity, participants are required to raise no less than $2,500 (USD). Charity program entries are available on a first-come first-served basis until Friday, September 10, 2027, or when the charity has reached its capacity, whichever comes first. Those interested in participating for charity should directly contact the charity of their choice with any questions.

  Note: Only charities that are part of the official Bank of America Chicago Marathon Charity Program have access to guaranteed entries. Visit the Charity Index for a complete list of official 2027 charity partners.

  What are the requirements of joining a tour group at the 2027 Bank of America Chicago Marathon?

  Each tour operator manages its own unique tour and requirements, such as cost of entry, air travel, hotel, etc. Please note, only tour operators that are part of the official Bank of America Chicago Marathon Tour Operator program have access to guaranteed entries. Not all countries have approved Chicago Marathon tour partners. Those interested in joining a tour group should directly contact the tour partner of their choice with any questions. More information on this application will be available soon. Please note, this application will remain open through Tuesday, August 10, 2027.

  I completed the charity or tour operator program application/registration and no longer want to run with a charity or tour group. What do I do?

  Please contact your charity team coordinator or tour operator directly for additional information.

  I want to run for a charity, but I don’t see them listed on the website?

  Only charities that are a part of our official Charity Program have access to guaranteed entries. Visit the 2027 Charity Index for a complete list of official charity partners. Individuals selected through the drawing or those utilizing a guaranteed entry are welcome to run on behalf of any organization or cause.

  I would like my charity or tour group to be a part of one of the event’s official programs. How can I get more information?

  For more information on the official Charity Program and Tour Operator Program, email eventpartnerrelations@cemevent.com.

  How do I know if a charity or tour operator has access to Bank of America Chicago Marathon entries?

  Only charities listed in the Charity Index and tour groups listed in the Tour Operator Program Index have access to Bank of America Chicago Marathon entries. The event strongly discourages individuals from working with organizations that claim to have event entries but are not listed on the event website as an official partner. If you are unsure if an organization is affiliated with the event, please email the event at office@chicagomarathon.com.

• LEGACY AND TIME QUALIFIER APPLICATION FAQs

  How were the Time Qualifier standards determined?

  Time Qualifier standards are based, in part, on the number of participants who have historically met the qualifying standards for the Bank of America Chicago Marathon’s fastest start corrals, as well as the need to arrive at a number of likely registrants that can be managed for the 2027 Chicago Marathon.

  The standards introduced for non-binary applicants are inclusive of the qualifying times for the two previously existing divisions. Applicants can expect standards to adjust in the coming years as data becomes available to help inform future qualifying times. Discussions with non-binary athletes are ongoing, with the goal of creating more inclusive event experiences.

  What documentation is needed to prove qualification for this entry path?

  Applicants must submit results records for a marathon completed during the qualifying window (January 1, 2025 to October 29, 2026). The results documentation must include a finish time completed within the qualifying time standards and division (men, women or non-binary). Finish times at race distances other than a marathon will not be considered. A verifiable time is one run on a course certified by USA Track & Field (USATF), World Athletics or a similar governing association; considerations will not be made for non-certified races, weather or course conditions.

  Can those who narrowly missed the qualifying time, or who ran a comparable time at a different distance (e.g. half marathon, 50K, etc.), or who ran a qualifying time prior to January 1, 2025, be considered for guaranteed entry as a Time Qualifier?

  No. Exceptions to qualifying times, distances and dates will not be made.

  Can those who run a qualifying time after the application window register as a Time Qualifier?

  No. All time qualifiers must register during the application window.

  What constitutes a verifiable time for guaranteed entry as a Time Qualifier?

  A marathon time run on a course certified by USA Track & Field (USATF), World Athletics or similar governing association on or after January 1, 2025. Proof must be submitted in the form of an official finisher certificate or official results page. Exceptions/considerations will not be made for non-certified events, weather or course conditions, or for any race distance other than a full marathon.

  I participated in the 2020 Bank of America Chicago Marathon Virtual Experience. Will my participation count towards the legacy or time qualifier entry application?

  No. The Virtual Experience results listing will not be incorporated into the official Bank of America Chicago Marathon results and cannot be used as a qualifying time for other events.

  Will past Bank of America Chicago Marathon finishers be given preference to register for the 2027 Chicago Marathon?

  Yes. Those who have completed five or more Bank of America Chicago Marathons within the last 10 years may register for the 2027 Chicago Marathon with a guaranteed entry. Beyond this consideration, past Chicago Marathon finishers have the same registration options as all other interested individuals.

• DRAWING APPLICATION FAQs

  Is it possible that the event might sell out through the issuance of guaranteed entries, thus negating the drawing?

  No. The guaranteed entry application paths are in place to supplement the non-guaranteed drawing, not replace it. The allotment of charity and tour operator entries is managed in a manner to maintain the diversity of the participant field and the equity of the entry process.

  Is there a fee to apply for the non-guaranteed entry drawing?

  There is no fee to apply for an entry.

  Is there a limit to the number of people that can apply for a non-guaranteed entry?

  No. The application will remain open for entry until the application deadline.

  How many entries will be available through the non-guaranteed entry drawing?

  We don’t know at this time, as that number will depend on the total number of people who register with a guaranteed entry by the application deadline.

  How many entries are allotted to charities and tour operators?

  There is not a specific allotment of entries for charities or tour operators. Rather, the registration process for these groups has been designed to help them achieve the same number of participants they have had in past years, and to allow for slight, incremental growth.

  Is there an advantage to applying for the drawing earlier versus later?

  No. The time at which someone applies for the drawing will have no bearing on their chances of selection.

  When/how will I know if I’ve been selected through the non-guaranteed entry drawing?

  Applicants will be notified via email of their entry status on Tuesday, December 8. If an applicant receives an entry through the drawing, they will be required to pay the entry fee to complete their registration. If a selected applicant does not pay their entry fee by 11:59 p.m. (U.S. Central Time) on Tuesday, December 15, they will not be registered for the event and will not be assigned a bib. Individuals who apply for, but do not receive an entry through the drawing, may still register by opting to run for select official charities or tour operators.

  Can someone apply for the non-guaranteed entry drawing multiple times to increase their chances of selection?

  No. Prior to selection, duplicate entries will be removed from the system and therefore will not increase one’s chances of selection.

  What happens if I enter the non-guaranteed entry drawing multiple times and get selected more than once?

  Duplicate entries will be removed from the system prior to the drawing.

  If I’m not selected to receive an entry, is there still a way I can participate in the 2027 Bank of America Chicago Marathon?

  Yes. Individuals who apply for, but do not receive an entry through the drawing may still register by opting to run for select official charities or tour operators.

• CANCELLATION (BY YOU OR BY US)

  What are my options if I sign up and can’t participate?

  Registered participants who are unable to participate in the 2027 Bank of America Chicago Marathon can cancel their entry through Wednesday, October 6, 2027. All event fees (entry, ancillary products, etc.) are non-refundable and will not be applied to future participation. Participants who select this option must complete the 2028 application process and pay the 2028 entry fee to redeem their guaranteed entry. It’s important to note that once an entry is cancelled, the process cannot be undone.

  This opportunity is not available to participants who received a guaranteed entry through charity or tour group applications, nor is it available to those who cancelled their 2026 entry to 2027.

  I am injured and/or cannot run the event (family commitment, work obligation, etc.). Can I get a refund, donate my entry or transfer my entry to someone else?

  No. Per our event rules: Sale and/or transfer of race entries/bib numbers is strictly prohibited and will result in the disqualification and/or banning of any individuals involved from future events. All entry fees are non-refundable.

  Are there cancellation options for participants who are or recently have been pregnant?

  We have put into place an exception to our standard event policies to permit deferral for participants who need to cancel their registration due to being pregnant, recently pregnant or postpartum. Click here for more information on the pregnancy and postpartum policy.

  Are there any exceptions at all? If I provide medical documentation for my surgery, injury, etc., can I receive a refund?

  There are no exceptions to the event rules.

  I cancelled my entry, but something changed and now I’m able to participate. Can I undo my decision to cancel my entry?

  No. Once you cancel your 2027 Bank of America Chicago Marathon entry it cannot be undone. Registered participants have until Wednesday, October 6, 2027, to complete the individual cancellation process. We encourage you to complete the process when you are confident you can no longer participate in the 2027 event.

  What are my options if race organizers cancel the event?

  If it is determined, for reasons outside of the event’s control, that the 2027 Bank of America Chicago Marathon cannot take place, registered participants will have the option to receive a partial refund for their 2027 entry or the opportunity to defer their place to the 2028 event and receive a discount on their 2028 entry fee.

  Learn more about the options available to registered participants in the event of a race cancellation.

  Why does the event not allow participants to defer their place and entry fee?

  Our current policy in the event of a cancellation considers a participant’s financial commitment to the event, as well as the cost and the resources required to stage a world-class marathon. Every dollar that is collected through registration is invested back into the event to help cover these expenses and to enhance the overall experience for our participants. Planning and financial commitment for each year’s event begins well in advance of the application window for the next event.

  Learn more about the options available to registered participants in the event of a race cancellation.

• REFUNDABLE REGISTRATION FAQs

  What is refundable registration and who is it available to?

  Individuals who are concerned they may not be able to participate in the 2027 event can pay an additional service fee (approximately 10-15% of your total cart. The exact price will be shown before it is selected.) for a 100% refund of the entry fee and additional products paid by the participant during the registration process. Registered participants who purchased refundable registration and are unable to participate in the race (for one of the wide range of perils covered) must apply to receive a 100% refund of their entry fee and ancillary purchases.

  What scenarios are covered?

  Scenarios covered are available in the terms & conditions and conditions of coverage.

  Who is eligible to purchase refundable registration?

  Refundable registration is available to individuals who paid for their entry and/or additional products during the registration process. Please note, refundable registration is not available to individuals whose entry will be paid for by a charity, tour or sponsor partner.

  When can I purchase refundable registration?

  The option to purchase refundable registration is available during the application/registration process. If you did not purchase refund protection during registration, you will not have the opportunity to purchase refundable registration later.

  How do I initiate a refund request?

  Fill out this form to initiate a refund request.

  If event organizers cancel the event, would I receive a refund on my refundable registration purchase?

  No. In the event of a cancellation by the event, the additional service fee associated with refundable registration would not be refunded.

  What information will be needed in order to submit a refund request?

  All refund requests require proof of an event or booking purchase and supporting documentation for the refund reason that prevented the person from attending. Required documentation is determined by the reason you were unable to attend the event. For example, a physician’s statement would be required for a refund request relating to illness. If the request is submitted within the allotted time frame and contains the correct documentation, the refund request will be approved, and you will be reimbursed for the protection amount.

• BANK OF AMERICA CHICAGO DISTANCE SERIES FAQs

  What is the Bank of America Chicago Distance Series?

  The Bank of America Chicago Distance Series brings together Chicago’s three premier races: the Shamrock Shuffle 8K Run, Chicago 13.1 and Chicago Marathon. Participants who register for and finish all three events in 2027 receive an exclusive medal and a guaranteed entry to the 50th running of the Chicago Marathon in 2028.

  What do I need to do to participate?

  Registering for and finishing the Shamrock Shuffle 8K Run, Chicago 13.1 and Chicago Marathon in one calendar year makes you a Bank of America Chicago Distance Series finisher.

  Do I need to sign up for the Bank of America Chicago Distance Series separately?

  There is no additional registration required for the Bank of America Chicago Distance Series.

  How do I get my Bank of America Chicago Distance Series medal?

  You will receive your Bank of America Chicago Distance Series medal in the Runner Refresh area after crossing the finish line of the Chicago Marathon. More information will be shared in the weeks leading up to the 2027 event.

  How do I claim my guaranteed entry to the 2028 Bank of America Chicago Marathon?

  Information on the 2028 Bank of America Chicago Marathon process will be available in the fall of 2027. Sign up for the Mile by Mile newsletter to receive information as soon as it becomes available. Please note that you must register for and finish the Shamrock Shuffle 8K Run, Chicago 13.1 and Chicago Marathon in 2027 to be eligible for a Bank of America Chicago Distance Series guaranteed entry to the 2028 Chicago Marathon.