Intellectual Impairments in Paralympic Sport
Learn more about classification within the intellectual impairment landscape, the Paralympic sports available to athletes with intellectual impairments, and how to get connected to the appropriate pathways and resources.
About Intellectual Impairment Classification
Intellectual Impairment classification in Paralympic sport is the system used to determine whether an athlete with an intellectual impairment is eligible to compete.
Virtus, the International Sports Federation for athletes with an intellectual impairment, is responsible for managing and overseeing the eligibility process for those looking to compete in Virtus and other Para sport competitions within the intellectual impairment classification group.
Eligibility Information
The USOPC has partnered with Athletes Without Limits for all intellectual impairment classifications. Athletes Without Limits determines whether U.S. athletes with intellectual and developmental disabilities are eligible for Paralympic competitions. The three main criteria to be eligible for the II-1 sport class of Paralympic competition are:
- IQ of 75 or below (Must be WISC, WAIS, Stanford-Binet or Raven)
- Significant limitations in Adaptive Behavior (Vineland, ABAS, or Other.)
- Onset before age 18
Swimming
Athletes compete in classes such as S14, which is specifically for athletes with intellectual impairments.
Table Tennis
Class 11 represents the sport class for athletes with intellectual impairments.
Track and Field
T20 for track and F20 for field events, designed for athletes with intellectual impairments.
Get Connected
Start Your Journey Today, opens in a new tabComplete our Para Athlete Questionnaire to get connected with the Paralympic sport you are most interested in. Once submitted, the Paralympic Pathways team will review your responses and connect you with the appropriate Paralympic sport program.
Athletes Without Limits
Begin Eligibility, opens in a new tabReview the Athletes Without Limits webpage on Paralympic classification and begin working on compiling your documents. Once ready, submit them online to officially begin the classification process for athletes with intellectual impairments.
Questions?
Connect With Us Today, opens in a new tabReach out to the Paralympic Pathways team with any questions or for additional information about Paralympic sports and the intellecutal impairment landscape. The team can guide you on classification, sport eligibility, and connecting with the right programs.