The objective of Level 3 is to build on independent swimming skills by providing additional guided practice. Students work on alternating breathing, refining their freestyle and backstroke coordination and technique, treading water, beginning diving (in pools that are deep enough), and elements of new strokes (such as the butterfly and breaststroke) are introduced. Water safety is a focus at every Red Cross Level.

Students are tested during their first lesson and placed in the appropriate Level. At the completion of each Level the student receives a
Certificate of Achievement.