What Is a Board of Review?

The board of review can feel like a big step for many Scouts. It sits near the end of the work they complete for each rank. It gives the troop committee a chance to talk with the Scout and learn how things are going. Many Scouts feel nervous about it, but it should be a calm and friendly conversation. It helps the troop understand how to support each Scout better.

A board of review also helps the Scout look back at recent adventures. It offers space to think about what they learned and what they enjoyed. Many Scouts discover that they have grown in ways they did not notice before. This makes the board of review an important moment of reflection. It helps the Scout move forward with confidence.

Parents sometimes worry when the board of review comes up. They might think it will feel like a strict test. It should not feel that way. The goal is to guide and encourage the Scout. The Scout should feel heard and respected. When the board is calm and supportive, everyone benefits.

The board of review also helps the troop stay healthy. Committee members learn how well the unit is serving its youth. They hear what Scouts enjoy and what challenges they feel. These conversations help leaders shape a stronger program. They also help build trust between Scouts and adults.

A board of review has a simple purpose. It confirms that the Scout completed all requirements. It also looks at the Scout’s growth. It gives adults a chance to see how the program is working. This helps the troop stay on track. It also helps adults understand the needs of the Scouts they serve. The board should feel safe and welcoming for the Scout.

A board of review is made up of troop committee members. They gather to talk with the Scout. They listen closely and ask open questions. They do not test skills. They simply want to learn more about the Scout’s experience. This helps them understand how the Scout is doing in the troop and how the troop can support them.

The board looks at the Scout’s progress in character and leadership. They talk about how the Scout is living the Scout Oath and Scout Law. This shows how the program is shaping the Scout. It also helps the Scout think about personal growth. These reflections help the Scout become more thoughtful and aware of their actions.

The tone matters. The Scout should feel welcome and calm. The adults should smile and speak kindly. This makes the conversation easier. When the Scout feels relaxed, they share more freely. This helps the board learn more about the troop and the Scout’s journey. Everyone gains something from this simple, honest talk.

Most boards of review are held when the Scout completes all requirements for a rank. This includes Tenderfoot through Life. Each of these ranks uses a board of review with three to six committee members. The Scout meets with them after finishing the Scoutmaster conference. This keeps the process simple and clear. It also keeps the Scout’s progress steady.

The Eagle Scout board of review is different. It follows local council rules. It may include district members, council members, or a mix of these with troop committee members. The setting is still friendly and calm. The Scout should feel supported. The goal stays the same. The board listens, asks questions, and encourages the Scout.

Sometimes a troop holds a board of review even when a Scout is not advancing. This can happen when a Scout feels stuck. It can also happen when there are concerns. The board listens to the Scout. They try to understand what is happening. This helps the troop support the Scout better. It keeps the lines of communication open.

These conversations help the troop grow stronger. They show Scouts that adults care. They keep the Scout connected to the troop. They give the committee insight into the health of the unit. All of this makes the board of review a valuable tool. It helps everyone move forward with clarity and care.

Many Scouts fear the board of review because they think it is a test. It is not. The board does not check knots. The board does not ask the Scout to build a tower. The board does not ask for a recitation of rules or facts. They may ask questions about activities, but only to learn how the requirement was met. The conversation should feel simple and open.

A normal board of review lasts about fifteen minutes. It should not feel rushed. The adults should meet in a quiet place without interruptions. This helps the Scout feel calm. A calm setting leads to better conversation. It helps the Scout think and speak clearly. It also shows respect for the Scout’s effort and time.

Open questions help the Scout talk freely. Questions like “Tell me about a campout you enjoyed” give the Scout space to share. Questions that need only yes or no answers do not help much. Open questions help everyone learn more. They help the Scout reflect on what they have done. They help the board understand how the Scout is growing.

The board should show patience. Some Scouts talk a lot. Some Scouts speak very little. Both are fine. The adults should listen well. They should wait for the Scout to finish. They should speak kindly. A board of review done well builds confidence. It helps the Scout feel respected. It supports the troop’s mission to guide youth.

One part of the board of review focuses on the Scout Oath and Scout Law. The board invites the Scout to share how they try to live these ideals. They might ask for examples. The Scout may talk about home, school, or troop activities. This helps the Scout think about character. It helps the board understand how the Scout applies the values they promise.

This part of the conversation is not about perfection. It is about honesty and effort. The Scout may share both successes and struggles. Both are important. The board listens with care. They give praise when the Scout shares a good example. Praise helps the Scout feel valued. It helps the Scout see the good things they are doing.

The board may also guide the Scout toward future goals. They might ask what the Scout hopes to do next. They might ask about positions of responsibility. They might help the Scout think about needed skills. These questions help the Scout plan. They build a sense of direction. They keep the Scout moving forward.

Interests and merit badges often come up. A Scout might mention a hobby or a goal. The board can suggest related badges. This opens new doors. It also keeps the program exciting. When Scouts discover new interests, they stay active and engaged. These short conversations can spark new adventures and growth.

After the conversation, the Scout leaves the room. The board then talks about what they heard. They consider the Scout’s growth and effort. They look at the requirements. They review the Scout’s answers. The discussion should be short and calm. The goal is to decide if the Scout completed the rank. Most of the time, the decision is yes.

The Scout is not kept waiting long. The board invites the Scout back in. They usually offer congratulations. They explain why the Scout is ready for the rank. This moment should feel warm and encouraging. The Scout worked hard. This recognition helps the Scout feel proud. It also strengthens trust between the Scout and the troop.

Sometimes the board finds that requirements are not complete. This is rare. When it happens, the board speaks kindly. They explain exactly what still needs to be done. They offer clear guidance. They show support. The Scout should leave knowing they can finish the work. Encouragement matters. It helps the Scout return ready to try again.

The decision process should always be fair and respectful. The Scout should feel heard. The Scout should feel valued. The board should act with care. The troop committee plays an important role in supporting youth. A kind and clear decision helps the Scout grow. It also keeps the troop strong and healthy.

Board of Review Questions

You may be wondering about the questions to ask during a Scout’s Board of Review. It’s essential to understand that the review is a conversation, not an interrogation.

Start with easy questions to put the Scout at ease, such as their rank and patrol details. Ask open-ended questions about their Scouting experiences and future goals within the troop. You can also inquire about their thoughts on the troop’s program and encourage their involvement in planning activities. Tailor the questions based on the individual Scout’s experiences and achievements, and if you need more ideas, there are lists of sample questions available for each rank, from Tenderfoot to Eagle Scout.

What Is Scout Spirit?

Scout spirit is an important aspect of Scouts BSA ranks, and it involves living the Scout Oath and Scout Law in everyday life. It goes beyond just attending meetings and outings; it’s about incorporating the ideals of Scouting into various aspects of a Scout’s life, such as at home, school, and in the community.

Evaluating Scout spirit requires getting to know the Scout and asking thoughtful questions to understand how they have demonstrated these values. Scouts can provide specific examples of their actions, like being kind to classmates or trustworthy while babysitting siblings. They can also discuss times when they found it challenging and reflect on how they can improve in the future. Demonstrating Scout spirit is about personal growth and living the principles of Scouting beyond the Scout uniform.

Board of Review Training

This BSA training module will help you understand the dos and don’ts of a BOR. It will will train troop committee members and others in the purposes of the Board of Review, offering suggestions for the types of questions that can or should be asked.

What is the purpose of a Board of Review?

A Board of Review is a meeting held after a scout completes the requirements for a rank (except Scout rank). Its purpose is to determine the quality of the scout’s experience and verify if the rank requirements have been fulfilled. If successful, the board approves the scout’s advancement and encourages them to pursue the next rank.

Can a Scout be denied a Board of Review?

No, a Scout cannot be denied the opportunity for a Board of Review. If the Scout believes they have completed all the requirements for a rank, including a Scoutmaster conference, the board must be granted.

Who should not be part of a Board of Review?

Parents, guardians, or relatives should not serve on a board for their own child. Also, unit leaders and assistants should not be part of a board of review for a Scout in their unit. The candidate or their parent/guardian/relative should not have a role in selecting any board of review members.

Is wearing the uniform necessary for a Board of Review?

While it is preferred that a Scout be in full field uniform for the review, they should be clean and neat in appearance if wearing the uniform is not possible.

What should be discussed during the Board of Review?

Board members may ask the Scout about where they learned their skills, who their teachers were, and what they gained from fulfilling certain requirements. The discussion should include how the Scout has lived the Scout Oath and Scout Law in different aspects of their life. It’s important to note that perfection is not expected, but a positive attitude, acceptance of Scouting’s ideals, and good standards in daily life are valued.

What happens after the Board of Review?

If the board members agree unanimously that the Scout is ready to advance, they will call the Scout in and congratulate them. The board of review date becomes the effective date of the rank advancement. If the board does not approve, the Scout will be informed and provided with feedback on what can be improved. They may have the opportunity for a follow-up board of review if it is believed they can benefit from it.

Can videoconferencing be used for Boards of Review?

In exceptional cases, such as communicable diseases or Scouts in remote locations, videoconferencing may be used for Boards of Review. Specific requirements must be followed, and approval from the local council is required for Eagle Scout boards of review conducted via videoconferencing.

The board of review brings the Scout to the end of one step and the start of another. It gives the Scout a chance to share what they learned. It helps them see their own progress. It also reminds them that adults in the troop care about their growth. This simple meeting shows the Scout that their voice matters and that their work is noticed.

A good board of review builds confidence. The Scout leaves knowing they were heard. They understand what they did well. They also see what they can work on next. This keeps the path forward clear. When adults listen with patience, the Scout feels supported. This helps them stay active in the program and look forward to new adventures.

The troop also benefits from each board of review. Leaders learn how the troop is doing. They learn which activities work well. They hear where Scouts struggle. These insights help them shape a better program. They also help build a strong bond between Scouts and adults. A simple conversation can strengthen the whole unit.

The board of review may seem small, but it leaves a deep impact. It guides the Scout. It helps the troop grow. It keeps the focus on learning, service, and leadership. Each board shows that Scouting is built on steady steps and shared support. When done with care, it helps every Scout take the next step with confidence and pride.