Depending on the scout's swimming ability, the scout is classified as either a Swimmer, Beginner, or Non-Swimmer. Swim tests are given at the beginning of all camps, regardless of the scout's age, rank or if they have completed the Swimming merit badge and/or Mile swim. Throughout a scouts advancement, they will have performed dozens of swim tests because the only way to be certain of a persons swimming ability is for the lifeguard present to witness them swim. At scouting camps, the swim areas are divided into the three classifications - so that non-swimmers are in a sectioned off area different from Swimmers, etc.

Swimmer

• Jump feet first into water over the head, level off, and begin swimming.
• Swim 75 yards in a strong manner using one or more of the following strokes: side, breast, trudgen, or crawl. Swim 25 yards using an easy, resting backstroke.
• The 100 yards must be completed without stops and must include at least one sharp turn.
• Rest by floating…Long enough to demonstrate ability to rest when exhausted.
  

Beginner

• Jump feet first into water over the head, level off, and begin swimming.
• Swim 25 feet on the surface.
• Stop, turn, and resume swimming back to the starting place.
  

Non-Swimmer

• Did not complete either of the swimming tests.