The first step in qualifying for the Olympics is to meet the eligibility requirements. Athletes need to have achieved a certain time standard in their respective events. Swimmers must achieve the Olympic "A" Cut or the Olympic "B" Cut to participate in the games.
The Olympic "A" Cut is a faster qualifying time than the Olympic "B" Cut, and swimmers who achieve the "A" Cut are typically given priority in selection for their national team. Each country is allowed to send a limited number of swimmers to the Olympics, and swimmers need to also meet the specific qualifying standards set by their respective countries.
Swimmers must compete in a series of national and international events, including the Olympic Trials. The Olympic Trials are a series of events that are held in most countries to determine which swimmers will represent their nation in the Olympics. In the United States, for example, swimmers must place in the top two of their respective events to qualify for the Olympics.