<p>Check out the swimming requirements for the Naval Academy, particularly the 10m tower jump and the fully clothed swims. Everything else pales in comparison. [United</a> States Naval Academy | Professional Education](<a href=“http://www.usna.edu/admissions/pephysical.htm]United”>http://www.usna.edu/admissions/pephysical.htm)</p>
<p>I had to take a swim test in college. It was in about 6 ft. of water. We had to do two laps, then stay in the water the rest of 15 min. without touching the side of the pool. The two swimmers who looked to be the most able (dove in, then did freestyle laps) didn’t pass; one tired out and stopped, while the other had to be rescued. The rest of us, including those who jumped in, dog paddled across the pool, then tread water and/or floated, passed. That’s when I learned that the result matters more than the method!</p>
<p>Those who didn’t pass or didn’t take the test were required to take swimming as a P.E. As I understand it, the swim test requirement has been eliminated.</p>