As a key component of the strategy to provide competition for all, the ASA has implemented a licensing system for competitions of different levels. Text taken from the “Competition for All” guidelines document on the ASA website.
Level 1
Intended for National Qualification. (Times also accepted for Regional Qualification) These meets are intended to be the ‘Premier’ Meets within the calendar and are expected to provide ‘Swim Down’ Facilities and results sheets should show splits.
Level 2
Intended for Regional Qualification (Times swum can be used for entry into National Competitions). These meets must have an advertised upper and lower qualifying time for each event. These times will also be influenced by many of the factors above.
Level 3
These meets must have an advertised upper and lower qualifying time and are intended for those swimmers wishing to achieve a county qualifying time, and not catered for at Levels One & Two. Times achieved at these meets will be accepted for Regional Qualification.
Level 4
Intended for club swimmers and those beginning to enter individual open competition. Electronic timing is not compulsory. Times achieved at these meets may be used for entry into meets at level’s two and three and into County Championships.