It is the policy of the English Cross Country Association, backed by England Athletics, to send teams to International Cross Country events to help athletes to develop and gain experience of travelling and competing against good quality athletes from other Countries.

England teams are selected for the Senior age group and the IAAF Under 20 age groups for both men and women. No athlete who is under the age of 16 on the day of competition will be selected and if under 18 will be required to complete a parental consent form.