What's this about a swim test at Columbia?

I heard something about a required swim test at Columbia University. Can someone explain what this is all about? Is it mandatory and what happens if you can't pass it?

Yes, it's true. Columbia University does have a physical education requirement which includes a mandatory swim test. The requirement exists as a part of the belief in the importance of a sound body for a sound mind.

The swim test is simple: you have to swim 75 yards continuously. That's three lengths of the 25-yard pool in Columbia's University Fitness Center. It's not timed, and it doesn't matter what stroke you use, as long as you swim the entire distance.

This is something you would typically complete during the first semester of your first year, although you can do it at any point during your four years. The test is often administered during a Physical Education class, or you can make arrangements to take it outside class hours.

Now, what happens if you don't pass this test? Don't worry – you're not going to be thrown out of the university! If you don't pass the swim test, you will need to take beginner's swimming as your Physical Education class until you pass the test. You don't graduate from Columbia until you've passed this test, but fear not! You will get plenty of chances to pass the test throughout your time at Columbia and many resources are available if swimming is not one of your strengths.

Additionally, you can receive a medical waiver if you are unable to complete the swim test due to a condition. The deadline to request a waiver is typically in February, so if you end up going to Columbia and are seeking a waiver, just make sure you don't put off your request until the very last minute in your senior year!

Finally, on a separate note, if you end up applying to Columbia and want tips on how to maximize your chances of admission, I'd check out this blog post from CollegeVine, which breaks down how to tackle their school-specific supplemental essays: https://blog.collegevine.com/how-to-write-the-columbia-university-essays/. The essays are a great place to showcase your broader fit for an institution, beyond academics - you could even mention the swim test!

On the whole, the swimming requirement is seen as a quirky tradition rather than a barrier to graduation. Hope this information helps you with your college decision-making process!