Advancement is the process through which Scouts develop skills, knowledge, and leadership abilities as they progress through the program’s ranks. The advancement system is designed to help Scouts grow in personal responsibility, self-reliance, and teamwork while gaining outdoor and life skills.
Scouts BSA Rank Requirements – 2024 Updates (Scouting America website)
Ranks
The advancement process includes the following ranks, each with its own set of requirements that encompass skill-building, service, leadership, and personal growth:
- Scout: Focuses on learning the basics of Scouting, such as the Scout Oath, Law, and basic outdoor skills.
- Tenderfoot: Introduces basic camping, physical fitness, and Scout spirit requirements.
- Second Class: Builds on outdoor skills, swimming, first aid, and citizenship.
- First Class: Focuses on being a well-rounded Scout proficient in outdoor skills and leadership.
- Star: Emphasizes leadership roles, merit badges, and service projects.
- Life: Builds on Star requirements with additional leadership, merit badges, and service.
- Eagle: The highest rank, requiring a significant service project and a deep demonstration of leadership and character.
In addition to ranks, Scouts may earn special Scouts BSA awards and religious award emblems.
Not sure where to put all the patches and badges on your uniform? Consult the Guide to Awards and Insignia (online version) and click “Scouts BSA Insignia”.
Merit Badges
Throughout advancement, Scouts earn merit badges to explore hobbies, skills, and potential careers. Some are required for Eagle rank (e.g., First Aid, Camping, Citizenship in the Nation), while others are elective.
You can download the Troop 54 Merit Badge Counselor Directory from the password-protected Rosters page.
Leadership and Service
As part of advancement, Scouts take on leadership roles in their troop and contribute through service projects to their communities.
Troop 54 uses Scoutbook.com to track everything from advancement and camping nights to Scout contact information.
- Technical Problem?: You should have received instructions for accessing Scoutbook when you joined the troop. Email the Troop 54 IT Help Desk for technical assistance.
- Advancement Question? Contact the Advancement Chair for assistance or to request an emailed advancement report.