Qualifying Standards

Qualifying - Who Sets the Standards?

Sometimes, there is an air of confusion as to when and where an individual can qualify for the national championships and/or international competition. The below information may help.

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How does the JAAA achieve its mandate?

The JAAA is committed to promoting and encouraging the advancement of athletics. Through these policies, we can achieve our mission and support measures that are beneficial and advantageous to athletics, culture, and good citizenship in Jamaica.

Qualifying – Who Sets the Standards?

The JAAA sets the pre-qualification standards for the National Championships. The JAAA does not set standards for athletes to qualify for international competition. The standards are set by the various Organizing Committees.


IOC – International Olympic Committee

The IOC, the International Olympic Committee sets the qualifying standards for the Olympic Games, Commonwealth Games and competitions within their purview.

WA – World Athletics

World Athletics sets the qualifying standards for all World Championships in Athletics, including Indoor, Outdoor, U20, Cross Country and Marathon events.

Other OCs

The various Organizing Committees around the world set the standards for athletes to qualify for their championships.