Mile Swim Award
Swimmer test, then the discussion and the quarter-mile qualifier, then the mile, signed off by a council-approved counselor.
6 steps. · Version 1, published 9 October 2026 · About Mile Swim Award
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This is the whole plan: everything that could apply to anybody.
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The steps
Stage 1 of 6
1 step
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Find a council-approved counselor Milestone
Counselors must be approved by the council. Aquatics Instructors, Red Cross Water Safety Instructors and YMCA Swim Instructors are named as good candidates, and every counselor needs current Safe Swim Defense training.
Stage 2 of 6
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1. Pass the swimmer test Requirement
100 yards in one swim with a sharp turn: 75 in a strong stroke, then 25 of easy resting backstroke.
Usually comes after Find a council-approved counselor.
Stage 3 of 6
1 step,
all ticked
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2. Learn what makes a long swim work Requirement
Through discussion and practice: how skill, stamina, stroke choice and pace affect distance swimming.
Stage 4 of 6
1 step
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3. Qualify with a quarter mile Requirement
Swim a quarter mile without stopping, or otherwise satisfy your counselor that you are ready.
Stage 5 of 6
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4. Swim the mile Requirement
Under safe conditions, over a course your counselor approves.
Usually comes after 3. Qualify with a quarter mile.
Stage 6 of 6
1 step
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Counselor signs the application; buy the award Milestone
The counselor signs to confirm every requirement is complete. The emblem and pocket certificate are bought at a Scout shop.
Usually comes after 1. Pass the swimmer test, 3. Qualify with a quarter mile and 4. Swim the mile.
This plan is a planning aid: the current Boy Scouts of America publication is always the authority, and the sources used here are listed in full. Each step names its own.