Ranks and Advancement
Scouting’s Approach to 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. The steps in the advancement system help a Scout grow in self-reliance and in the ability to help others. They also allow the Scout to learn life skills that will last them a lifetime.
Here are some great resources on advancement:
How Long Should it Take?
Typically it takes around four years to fulfill all the requirements to climb the ranks of Scouting to Eagle. However, it is certainly possible, with prior planning and perseverance, to do it in less time. Here is some great advice on how to climb through the ranks as efficiently as possible while getting the most that you can out of your time in Scouting..
Guide to Scout Ranks
The path from Scout rank to Eagle is a long and winding one, and it can be easy to get a little overwhelmed at times. But like they say, the journey of a thousand miles begins with the first step. Below we’ve put together a collection of articles and videos that we think can help you along your journey of advancement, with tips and advice on how to master the challenges presented in achieving each rank.
Scout
The Scout rank is the first step in Scouts BSA for new members. It helps Scouts learn essential information, values like the Scout Oath and Law, and important skills for their Scouting journey. Working towards this rank fosters responsibility and teamwork, teaching you the importance of the patrol method that organizes troops. Scouts are asked to reflect on the meanings of the Scout Oath and Law, promoting personal growth and character development. Ultimately, the Scout rank lays the groundwork for future challenges and ranks in Scouting USA.
How To Get Scout Rank - First Rank In Scouts BSA (Part 1)
How To Tie The Required Scouting Knots (With Practical Uses)
The Scouts BSA Totin’ Chip: Your Ultimate Guide in 2025
The Scouts BSA Firem’n Chit: Your Ultimate Guide In 2025
Tenderfoot
While the Scout rank teaches you the basics of how to be a Scout, Tenderfoot is where you start learning the basic skills you’ll need to know in your Scouting career like camping, first aid, and teamwork. It builds a foundation for future skills while helping Scouts gain confidence and understand troop dynamics. Scouts learn practical skills such as tent setup, cooking, and first aid.
Additionally, Tenderfoot focuses on physical fitness, encouraging Scouts to track exercises, set goals, and improve strength and endurance. The lessons learned at this stage are invaluable for ongoing growth in Scouting and in life.
Earning Tenderfoot Rank⚜️: A Scout’s Ultimate Guide in 2025
How to Earn Tenderfoot Rank - Scouts BSA
Tenderfoot First Aid Requirements 4a Video
Second Class
The Second Class rank follows Tenderfoot in Scouts BSA progression. Scouts will learn new outdoor skills while reinforcing foundational principles. Requirements include hiking, cooking, navigation, first aid, safety, and participation in service projects. Earning this rank signifies a Scout's understanding of scouting principles and commitment to growth and service, paving the way for future ranks like First Class.
Earning Second Class Rank⚜️: A Scout’s Ultimate Guide In 2025
Second Class First Aid Requirements 6a Video
Second Class First Aid Requirements 6b Video
Second Class First Aid Requirements 6C Video
First Class
The First Class rank is a vital achievement for Scouts in the Scouts BSA program, helping middle and high school students develop practical skills and character. Scouts learn to operate in the outdoors responsibly, learning more advanced camping and navigational skills that give confidence in outdoor activities.
Earning this rank involves understanding how to minimize environmental impact while following the Outdoor Code and Leave No Trace principles, ensuring nature is preserved for future enjoyment. Cooking skills are emphasized, as Scouts plan nutritious meals for outdoor settings, learning about food safety, budgeting, and nutrition. Additionally, the First Class rank prepares Scouts to engage in service projects, enhancing leadership and citizenship skills and instilling a sense of accomplishment and pride in their contributions.
A Complete Guide to Earning First Class
Earning First Class Rank⚜️: A Scout’s Ultimate Guide In 2025
Star
The Star Rank is a key step in a Scout’s path to becoming an Eagle Scout. It shows a Scout’s growth in leadership, service, and commitment to Scouting. This rank brings new challenges and responsibilities compared to earlier ranks. It is the first rank where to advance, the Scout must take on leadership responsibilities within the Troop and prove their ability to lead and help others.
The Star Rank builds on earlier ranks, highlighting Scout Spirit, merit badges, service hours, leadership, and safety. Each requirement helps Scouts develop important skills, values, and traits that benefit them for life. By achieving the Star Rank, Scouts gain experience in planning activities, collaborating with others, and taking on troop leadership roles.
Life
The Life Rank in Scouts BSAthe penultimate step towards becoming an Eagle Scout. It shows a Scout’s dedication, commitment, and leadership in their troop. To earn it, Scouts must live by the Scout Oath and Law and engage in troop activities and service projects. Achieving the Life Rank demonstrates readiness for more responsibilities and community involvement.
Earning this rank also requires Scouts to work on a variety of merit badges, giving them the opportunity to explore different and exciting subjects while gaining valuable skills in essential areas such as first aid, effective communication, and environmental science. This important rank not only prepares them for future leadership opportunities but also equips them to mentor and inspire younger Scouts on their own journeys through Scouting.
Eagle Scout
Achieving the Eagle Scout rank is the pinnacle of Scouts BSA, not just another badge but the highest rank. Unlike Life Scouts, who say “I WAS a Life Scout,” Eagle Scouts proudly declare, “I AM an Eagle Scout” even after 18. The path to Eagle requires earning 21 merit badges, leading a service project, and demonstrating leadership skills, providing practical abilities and ethical foundations. Universities, employers, and military branches value Eagle Scouts, recognizing it as a testament to capabilities and character.
Scouting USA Eagle Scout Application
Scouting USA Eagle Scout Service Project Workbook
How To Prepare Your Eagle Binder (Tips From An Eagle Scout!)
Lead A Successful Eagle Scout Project: Tips And A Guide In 2025
99 Amazing And Creative Eagle Scout Project Ideas For 2025
How To Write An Eagle Scout Statement of Ambition & Life Purpose
How To Write An Eagle Scout Project Report (With Examples)
Preparing For An Eagle Board of Review: The 4 Keys to Success