Rank Advancement

There are seven Boy Scout ranks: Scout, Tenderfoot, Second Class, First Class, Star, Life, and Eagle. In the BSA handbook, there are requirements that, when fulfilled, help you advance to the next rank.

It is MOST IMPORTANT that Scouts keep (i.e. don't lose) their BSA Handbook and Merit Badge blue cards. This is their record of accomplishment which is crucial for the Eagle Trail.

Please complete forms below (when required) for rank advancement. Scouts should send these to the T109 Scoutmaster at least one week in advance of the Boards of Review (to determine eligibility).

T109 Leadership Form -- the scout should list his achievements/accomplishments in the leadership position, what he learned from the role, and how the position can be improved for the next scout.

T109 Service Tracking Form -- the scout should list his pre-approved service activities. A signature is not required for Troop 109, but this form can also be used to receive credit outside of Troop 109 (e.g. school) and a signature may be required by them.

WANT TO BECOME AN EAGLE SCOUT?

Troop 109: The Eagle Trail -- This overview explains what it takes to get there

Eagle Scout Leadership Service Project Workbook -- Start with this as you begin your Eagle Project.

How to Progress to the Next Rank

Scout Rank
Requirements

Tenderfoot Rank
Requirements

Second Class Rank
Requirements

First Class Rank
Requirements

Star Rank
Requirements

Life Rank
Requirements

The BSA Handbook lists the requirements for advancement through the ranks. The purpose of advancement is to have Scouts progress through a series of attainable challenges while learning skills and leadership. Through this process, the Boy Scout learns, is tested, is reviewed, and is recognized.

STEP-BY-STEP PROCESS:

Read the BSA Handbook and review requirements for next rank.
By joining activities with his Patrol and Troop, a Scout can accomplish these requirements.
As EACH requirement is completed, an Adult Scout Leader must "sign off" completion at the back of the BSA Handbook. This should be done as soon as possible after the Adult Leader witnesses completion (and in no circumstances should exceed one month later).
When ALL requirements for rank advancement have been completed, the Scout must contact the Scoutmaster for a Scoutmaster Conference (must be done at least one week prir to a Board of Review). This represents a one-on-one meeting to review all rank requirements, confirm the Scout has learned them well, and ensure the Scout is ready for his Board of Review. It is also an opportunity for the Scout to become familiar with the Scoutmaster, for the Scoutmaster to assess the goals of the Scout, and for the Scoutmaster to support the Scout on further advancement. (Note that BSA Youth Protection guidelines are always followed.)
A Scout progresses to the next rank after successful completion of a Board of Review (BOR). The BOR is comprised of three adult members of the T109 Troop Committee (the Scoutmaster and Assistant Scoutmasters may not participate in the BOR process). Dressed in his Class A Scout uniform, the Scout participates in the BOR to confirm that he has completed requirements for the rank, to assess his experience with the troop, and to encourage him to progress further. For Troop 109, BORs occur at least twice a year (e.g. in May and December).
After a Scout has advanced to the next rank, he will be awarded a new rank badge at the next T109 awards ceremony. He can then wear the badge proudly as a sign of his accomplishment!

Please note that a Scout may work on the requirements for Tenderfoot, Second Class, and First Class simultaneously. Then, Advancement through Star, Life, and Eagle Ranks must occur sequentially.

Use these requirement links to make sure you meet the requirements for rank advancement.