Which events are in para swimming?
A · Advanced · Classes and events · 1 of 4World Para Swimming picks each competition's events from a list by class, such as 50 m freestyle S1 to 13 or 200 m medley SM5 to 14. Swimmers need a minimum qualifying standard, or a minimum entry time with another qualifying time, set at a recognised competition. Some events combine classes, with medals for each class or by points.
How it works
- Event list: fixed by class, chosen per competition.
- Medley: 200 m for SM5 to 14; 150 m for SM1 to 4.
- MQS: a time needed to enter.
- MET: a second standard, with a qualifying time elsewhere.
- Where: only at recognised competitions; splits do not count.
- Long course: entry times must come from a 50 m pool.
- Multiple class events: several classes, five formats.
- Technical documentation: sets details per competition.
The glossary has the individual events, the individual medley, the minimum qualifying standard, the minimum entry time, the multiple class event and the technical documentation.
Tricky cases
Can a split time from a 200 m swim count for 100 m entry?
No.
Can a short course time enter a long course meet?
No. It must come from a 50 m pool.
Is there a 400 m freestyle for S3?
No. It is for S6 to S14.
Can wild cards skip the standards?
Yes.
Why the rule exists
Qualifying times keep fields to swimmers at the right level. Combining classes keeps events running when a class has few swimmers.
Where it differs
| Where | What changes | Source |
|---|---|---|
| SM5 to 14 | 200 m medley | 10.4 |
| SM1 to 4 | 150 m medley | 10.4 |
| Short course | 100 m and 75 m medley too | 10.4 |
From the rule book
World Para Swimming, Rules and Regulations, February 2026, sections 10.3 to 10.6. Checked 14 October 2026. Official document: the World Para Swimming Rules and Regulations, February 2026.