No "walkins"—Swim tests are by appointment only

Click here to view the 2026 Swim Test Schedule (PDF)

In order to join the MDSA you must pass a swim test administered by MDSA, fill out an application, and sign a release of liability for NY State Park and MDSA. You must be at least 18 years old, or 16 or 17 if your parent or guardian is an MDSA member and accompanies you to the MDSA beach. Members must adhere to MDSA rules (see MDSA Beach & Rules section) and pay annual dues of $25. The dues pay our insurance policy and other administrative costs — MDSA leaders are all volunteers. Please direct questions about joining to info@minnewaskaswimmers.org.

Apply online in advance and BRING A PRINTOUT of your completed online application to the test.

TO JOIN MDSA
Follow these Instructions to Apply and Schedule a Test Online:

  • Apply online (button below)
    • Fill out the online application
    • Click BEFORE CONTINUING, Print Your Application and NYS Risk Release Form
      We need hard copies of both, and your NYS Risk Release form must be signed
    • Click APPLY FOR MEMBERSHIP
  • Stop here if you do not want to schedule a test
  • Schedule your swim test
    • Select your swim test date and time
    • Click Schedule Swim Test
    • You'll receive your confirmation email with test day instructions (also available online, once logged in)
    • Click Continue to Payment
    You may also complete this step, reschedule, or cancel later.
    Note that changes must be made at least 6 days in advance of your scheduled time.
  • Pay the fee within 15 minutes
    The fee is NON-REFUNDABLE unless you take the test but do not pass.
    If you don't pay in time, you will have to schedule again.
    • Click Pay Now
    • Complete the payment process
      You do not need a PayPal account; scroll down in the window to pay with credit card.
    • WAIT to be redirected back to our site
      Otherwise, our system may not automatically register your payment.
      Should that happen, email us at info@minnewaskaswimmers.org.
    • You will receive your payment confirmation email
  • A few days before your test, you will also receive test day instructions
  • Take your swim test!
    Be sure to bring with you TWO headshot photos (1X1-1/4" cut to size), your signed Release of Liability form, a printout of your online application and your scheduling confirmation email.

APPLY ONLINE NOW

THE SWIM TEST

The test requires 500 yards continuous swimming: 25 yards crawl, 25 yards free style back stroke, 25 yards breast stroke, 25 yards side stroke and 400 yards additional swimming any stroke plus 3 minutes of treading water. (This translates into 20 lengths (10 round trips) of the pool — 1 crawl, 1 backstroke, 1 breaststroke, 1 side stroke, and 16 lengths any style — plus 3 minutes treading water.) THERE IS NO TIME LIMIT. Most people complete the test in under 30 minutes, but you can take as long as you need.