BSA
ADVANCEMENT
ADVANCEMENT
Scouting provides a series of surmountable obstacles and steps in overcoming them through the advancement method. Scouts plan their own advancement and progress at their own pace as they meet each challenge. Scouts are recognized and rewarded for each achievement, which helps them gain self-confidence. The steps in the advancement system help a Scout grow in self-reliance and in the ability to help others.
Scroll down to learn more or visit the BSA Advancement and Awards site.
RANKS
Scout
The first rank is Scout. To earn this rank, a new Scout must agree to live by the Scout Oath and Law, learn to tie a square knot, and complete several other assignments.
Tenderfoot
The second rank is Tenderfoot. The requirements for this rank offer a taste of the great adventures awaiting you in Scouting and can give you the basic skills you’ll need to begin taking part in those adventures.
Second Class
The third rank is Second Class, when Scouts learn how to use a map and compass, how and when to build a campfire, and to safely use pocketknives and wood tools.
First Class
The fourth rank is First Class. The founder of Scouting, Lord Baden-Powell, said that all young people should earn First Class. These Scouts have been tested even more with greater adventures and responsibilities, and have practiced their Scout skills many times. More is expected of these Scouts, and they are beginning to expect more from themselves as they prepare to be more of a leader in the Troop and their community.
Star
The fifth rank is Star. Scouts who achieved Star rank have more freedom to choose and pursue their own interests in Scouting. The focus for these Scouts has shifted from basic Scout skills to leadership and service. They are required to serve in a position of leadership in the Troop for at least four months and take part in at least one service project.
Life
The sixth rank is Life. This rank is much more challenging and requires a Scout to serve in a leadership role in the troop for at least six months, earn at least 11 Merit Badges (including seven Eagle-required Merit Badges) and to take part in at least one service project. The shape of the Life rank insignia symbolizes life and growth. Life Scouts must continue to grow while sharing their knowledge and skills with others.
Eagle
The seventh and highest rank in Scouting is the Eagle. The title of Eagle is held for life, giving rise to the phrase: “Once an Eagle, Always an Eagle.”
Requirements include earning at least 21 Merit Badges and demonstrating Scout Spirit through Scout Oath and Law, service and leadership. This includes an extensive service project that the Scout plans, organizes, leads and manages. Eagle Scouts are presented with a medal and badge that visibly recognize their accomplishments at a special ceremony.
Eagle palms
Eagle Scouts can also receive additional recognition with Eagle Palms, which are awarded for remaining active and continuing to play a leadership role in the Troop after achieving their Eagle Rank, and earning additional Merit Badges. You may wear only the proper combination of Palms for the number of merit badges you earned beyond the rank of Eagle. The Bronze Palm represents five merit badges, the Gold Palm 10, and the Silver Palm 15.
THE O.A.
For over 100 years, the Order of the Arrow (OA) has recognized Scouts and Scouters who best exemplify the Scout Oath and Law in their daily lives. This recognition provides encouragement for others to live these ideals as well. Arrowmen are known for maintaining camping traditions and spirit, promoting year-round and long term resident camping, and providing cheerful service to others. OA service, activities, adventures, and training for youth and adults are models of quality leadership development and programming that enrich and help to extend Scouting to America’s youth.
MERIT BADGES
A Scout can learn about sports, crafts, science, trades, business, and future careers as you earn merit badges. There are more than 135 merit badges to choose from.
Talk to your unit leader about your interests. Read the requirements of the merit badges you think might interest you and pick one to earn. Your leader will give you the name of a person from a list of counselors. You may not start a merit badge until you have approval from a Scoutmaster/Assistant Scoutmaster and then the Merit Badge Counselor.
ADDITIONAL INFORMATION