Swimmers take part in the annual swim test back in 2012. (Photo courtesy of MIT Student Life)

By Abby Brady

It’s no secret that MIT undergraduates must complete a swim test before graduating—or take a swim class to fulfill both the requirement and earn Physical Education credit. What exactly is the test, why does MIT require it, and what are the benefits of passing early?

What Is the MIT Swim Test?

MIT requires all undergraduates to swim 100 yards or four lengths of the pool to pass the swim test. Students may use any stroke they like (freestyle, doggy paddle, breaststroke, etc.), but they must swim the first three lengths on their front. They may switch to their back for the final length if they choose.

After passing the swim test, students have the option to take the “boat test,” which includes a 5-minute tread. Passing the boat test allows students to enroll in additional Physical Education courses such as Sailing/Kayaking/SCUBA.

These swimmers hold their completion cards after finishing both the swim and boat tests back in 2012. (Photo courtesy of MIT Student Life)

Why Does MIT Require It?

The swim test dates back to the 1940s, when drowning-related deaths during WWII raised concern about basic water safety and survival skills. MIT’s philosophy has remained straightforward: swimming is a life skill everyone should have.

There’s also a practical local reason. The Charles River runs directly along campus and is roughly 200 yards wide in this area. If someone were ever to fall in, they should have the ability to swim to either shore.

MIT is not the only school to require a swim like test; some notable schools that still require a swim test including Cornell, Dartmouth, and Columbia to name just a few. 

When and How to Take It

Most students complete the swim test soon after arriving on campus, but there’s no need to panic—you have all four undergraduate years to complete the requirement, or instead take a swim class. However, sooner is better than later, as the Aquatics program offers weekly drop-in testing during the academic year.

Why Take It Early?

Checking the swim or boat test off your to-do list early lets you focus on other PE requirements—and maybe even pursue some of MIT’s more whimsical achievements, like the Pirate Certificate or Wellness Wizard Certificate.

Yes, you read that right…MIT actually awards Pirate Certificates. Complete classes in Archery, Fencing, Pistol (Air Pistol or Rifle), and Sailing, and you can become a certified MIT pirate (Purely for fun, of course. MIT Recreation is strictly against actual piracy). If that’s not motivation to finish your swim requirements early, what is?

So take a deep breath, jump in, and get the swim test done. Future you will thank you.