Eligibility and classification

Sport for people with a disability is often divided into different groups so that athletes compete against people with similar disabilities.

This means that a person with a visual impairment competes against other people with a visual impairment, people who use wheelchairs to play sport compete against others people who use wheelchairs, and people with a learning disability compete against other people with similar learning disabilities.

This makes sure that competition is fair and equal. These different groups are called classifications.

In the UK, there are two levels of classification for athletes with a learning disability:

• UK (national) Classification which is managed by the UK Sports Association and enables athletes to take part in most of the competitions in the UK
• International (INAS) Classification and enables athletes to compete in European and World Championships

Mencap Sport has published a more detailed guide to classification in learning disability sport. We also have a detailed guide to the eligibility criteria in learning disability sport.

Classification Application Forms

Classification forms can befound on the UK Sports Association website.

Athletes are generally advised to apply for UK Classification before they consider International Classification.

UK Classification: Assessment Days (English athletes only)

Assessment Days are an opportunity for athletes to undertake the Short Form IQ test that is needed to support your application for UK Classification. Forthcoming dates are:

• 6 February 2010 - Southampton
• 25 April 2010 - Wakefield
• 15 May 2010 - Chelmsford  **FULL**
• 30 October 2010 - Southampton

Download the booking form for assessment days.