Time Standards
USA Swimming competitions are organized by age group, gender, and ability to ensure fair competition and support athlete development. Some meets use time standards set by USA Swimming, meaning only swimmers who meet or exceed the required qualifying times can participate.
A swimmer’s age group is determined by their age on the first day of the meet. For example, if a swimmer turns 15 on January 25, but the meet begins on January 24, they will compete in the 13-14 age group for that meet.
USA Swimming 2024-2028 Motivational Standards
USA Swimming's Time Standards Page
