Scouting America Swim Test Requirements

The Scouting America swim test represents the minimum level of ability for safe swimming in water that’s over your head. It is required for you to be allowed to participate fully in most Scouting America swimming and boating activities.

The swim test is given one-on-one under the guidance of qualified supervision. Each part of the test is important, and it must be completed without lifejackets, wetsuits, fins or other aids. Swim goggles may be used to avoid eye irritation.

Swim tests must be renewed annually, usually at the beginning of the summer.

SWIMMER’S TEST REQUIREMENTS:

1. Jump feet first into water over your head in depth and begin swimming without any aids. The test must be given under the guidance of qualified supervision.

2. Swim 75 yards in a strong manner using the sidestroke, breast stroke, trudgen or front crawl.

3. Swim 25 yards using an easy resting backstroke.

The 100 yards must be completed in one swim without stops and must include at least one sharp turn and without assistance from the side or bottom.

4. When you’re done, rest by floating, not treading water or swimming in place.

BEGINNER’S SWIM TEST

Taking part in most Scouting aquatics activities requires passing the Scouting America swimmer test. But if you’re just learning to swim, you’ll want to start with the beginner test.

Requirements: Jump feet first into water that’s over your head in depth, level off, and swim 25 feet on the surface. Stop, turn sharply, resume swimming, and return to the starting place.

Anyone who has not completed the beginner or swimmer tests is classified as a nonswimmer.

You can find more information in the Guide to Safe Scouting and in Scouting America’s Aquatics Resources.