Scout Rank for Scouts BSA for 2025

The Scout rank is the first step in the Scouts BSA program. It is designed for boys and girls who are joining a troop for the first time. This rank helps new Scouts learn the basic information they need to participate fully in their troop. By working on the Scout rank, Scouts start to understand the values of Scouting, including the Scout Oath, Scout Law, Scout motto, and Scout slogan. They also learn important skills that will help them in their Scouting journey and beyond.

Working towards the Scout rank teaches Scouts about responsibility and teamwork. Scouts learn to work together with their troop members and participate in troop activities. This includes understanding the patrol method, which is how troops are organized into smaller groups. This rank helps Scouts begin to see themselves as part of a team and understand how each member contributes to the troop’s success.

Achieving the Scout rank also focuses on personal growth. Scouts are encouraged to think about what the words of the Scout Oath and Scout Law mean in their lives. They discuss these meanings with their leaders and peers, which helps them develop a personal understanding of these important principles. This reflection helps Scouts grow in character and moral strength.

Overall, the Scout rank sets the foundation for a Scout’s journey in the Scouts BSA program. It builds essential skills, teaches important values, and helps Scouts understand their role in their troop and community. By completing this rank, Scouts are better prepared to take on more challenges and work towards higher ranks in Scouts BSA.

Notes: The requirements for Scout, Tenderfoot, Second Class, and First Class ranks may be worked on simultaneously;
however, these ranks must be earned in sequence. Alternative requirements for the Scout rank are available for Scouts with physical or mental disabilities if they meet the criteria listed in the Scouts BSA Requirements book.

1. 1. Repeat from memory the Scout Oath, Scout Law, Scout motto, and Scout slogan. In your own words, explain their meaning.
   2. Explain what Scout spirit is. Describe some ways you have shown Scout spiritby practicing the Scout Oath, Scout Law, Scout motto, and Scout slogan.
   3. Demonstrate the Scout sign, salute, and handshake. Explain when they should be used.
   4. Describe the First Class Scout badge and tell what each part stands for. Explain the significance of the First Class Scout badge.
   5. Repeat from memory the Outdoor Code. List the seven principles of Leave No Trace. Explain the difference between the two.
   6. Repeat from memory the Pledge of Allegiance. In your own words, explain its meaning.
2. After attending at least one Scout troop meeting, do the following:
   1. Describe how the Scouts in the troop provide its leadership.
   2. Describe the four steps of Scout advancement.
   3. Describe what the Scouts BSA ranks are and how they are earned.
   4. Describe what merit badges are and how they are earned.
3. 1. Explain the patrol method. Describe the types of patrols that are used in your troop.
   2. Become familiar with your patrol name, emblem, flag, and yell. Explain how these items create patrol spirit.
4. 1. Show how to tie a square knot, two half-hitches, and a taut-line hitch. Explain how each knot is used.
   2. Show the proper care of a rope by learning how to whip and fuse the ends of different kinds of rope.
5. Tell what you need to know about using a pocketknife safely and responsibly.
6. With your parent or guardian, complete the exercises in the pamphlet How to Protect Your Children From Child Abuse: A Parent’s Guide and earn the Cyber Chip Award for your grade or view the Personal Safety Awareness videos (with your parent or guardian’s permission).
7. Since joining the troop and while working on the Scout rank, participate in a Scoutmaster conference.

Print the Scout Rank Requirements

Scout Rank Workbook / Worksheet

Scout Rank Check Off Sheet

Download How to Protect Your Children from Child Abuse: A Parent’s Guide for Scout Rank Requirement 6

Safety Videos for Scout Rank Requirement 6 can be found on the Scouting America website.

Parent Involvement

If you are a parent and are new to Scouts BSA, you will find it helpful to familiarize yourself with the program so you can support your son or daughter. It is important to understand the role of the parent in this program. It is very different than the role of the parent in Cub Scouts.

• Beginning Boy Scouts – Although this book was written before Boy Scouts became Scouts BSA and has the older terminology, it is still a great resource if you are new to the program. The information still applies.
• Where Do Scouts BSA Learn Skills?
• Encouraging a New Scout

Help with Answers for Scout Rank Requirements

Find specific helps for some of the Scout rank requirements listed below. Some of these resources will just give the answers. Others will provide engaging ways for older Scouts to introduce these concepts to new Scouts.

Learning the Basics of Scouting

For the Scout rank, one of the first requirements is to learn and repeat the Scout Oath, Scout Law, Scout motto, and Scout slogan from memory. This requirement is important because it helps Scouts understand the core values and principles that guide all activities in Scouting.

Scout Oath: The Scout Oath is a promise to do your best to fulfill your duties to God, country, other people, and yourself. Memorizing this helps Scouts commit to being responsible and thoughtful in their actions. Read more about the Scout Oath here.

Scout Law: The Scout Law lists twelve qualities that Scouts strive to live by, including being trustworthy, loyal, helpful, and brave. Knowing the Scout Law teaches Scouts what behaviors are expected of them and what kind of person they should strive to be. Read more about the Scout Law here.

Scout Motto: The Scout Motto is “Be Prepared.” This motto reminds Scouts to always be ready to act responsibly in any situation they face, whether it’s a daily challenge or an unexpected emergency.

Scout Slogan: The Scout Slogan, “Do a Good Turn Daily,” encourages Scouts to do helpful things without expecting anything in return. It promotes kindness and service to others.

By learning these key elements, Scouts not only prepare to meet the requirements of the Scout rank but also lay a strong foundation for their future in Scouting and life. Understanding and explaining these in their own words helps Scouts connect personally with these principles, making them more meaningful and impactful.

Understanding and Showing Scout Spirit

For the Scout rank, requirement 1b focuses on understanding and demonstrating “Scout spirit.” Scout spirit is about living according to the Scout Oath and Scout Law in your daily life, not just at Scout meetings or events. It means showing qualities like honesty, kindness, and respect for others, which are core values in the Scout Law.

To meet this requirement, Scouts need to explain what Scout spirit means to them and describe specific ways they have shown it. This could be helping a neighbor, standing up for a friend, doing well in school while being fair to others, or participating actively in community service projects.

Showing Scout spirit is about making a positive impact in the lives of others and improving yourself based on the principles of Scouting. It’s important for Scouts to reflect on their actions and consider how they can continue to embody these ideals in everyday situations.

For more details and ideas on how to explain and demonstrate Scout spirit, you can visit this resource: What is Scout Spirit?. This provides additional insights and examples that can help Scouts better understand and fulfill this requirement of the Scout rank.

Sign, Salute, and Handshake

For the Scout rank, requirement 1c involves learning and demonstrating the Scout sign, salute, and handshake. These are fundamental symbols of Scouting used to express respect and camaraderie among Scouts and leaders.

Scout Sign: The Scout sign is made with your right hand by covering the nail of your little finger with your right thumb, then raise your right arm bent in a 90 degree angle, and hold the three middle fingers upright. These three fingers represent the three parts of the Scout Oath.

Scout Salute: The Scout salute is similar to the Scout sign but is used to show respect, especially when in uniform during flag ceremonies and whenever the national anthem is played. To give the Scout salute, raise your right hand in the same way as the Scout sign but with your forefinger touching the corner of your right eyebrow.

Scout Handshake: The Scout handshake is done with the left hand, the one closest to the heart, which symbolizes trust and friendship. Scouts use this handshake when greeting each other or leaders.

Understanding and using these symbols correctly is an important part of being a Scout. They help maintain a respectful and unified environment within the troop and the wider Scouting community. By practicing these symbols, Scouts reinforce their commitment to the values they learn in Scouting and demonstrate their readiness to be active and respectful members of their troop.

The Outdoor Code and Leave No Trace

For the Scout rank, requirement 1e focuses on understanding and committing to outdoor ethics by learning the Outdoor Code and the Leave No Trace Seven Principles. This requirement helps Scouts develop respect for nature and teaches them how to behave responsibly in the outdoors.

The Outdoor Code: Scouts are required to memorize the Outdoor Code, which is a pledge to be considerate in the outdoors and conserve wildlife and natural resources. The Outdoor Code serves as a general guideline for all activities in nature, emphasizing the need to be mindful and respectful of the environment. For more detailed information on the Outdoor Code and how to practice it, you can visit this resource: The Outdoor Code.

Leave No Trace Seven Principles: These principles provide more detailed guidance on how to minimize impacts while outdoors. They include:

1. Plan Ahead and Prepare
2. Travel and Camp on Durable Surfaces
3. Dispose of Waste Properly
4. Leave What You Find
5. Minimize Campfire Impacts
6. Respect Wildlife
7. Be Considerate of Other Visitors

Differences Between the Two: While the Outdoor Code provides a broad framework for behavior in natural settings, the Leave No Trace Seven Principles offer specific actions that can be taken to protect and preserve the environment. The Outdoor Code is more of a commitment to general values, while the Leave No Trace principles are actionable guidelines that help Scouts implement those values in concrete ways during outdoor activities.

Understanding both the Outdoor Code and the Leave No Trace principles is crucial for Scouts to act responsibly in nature. By adopting these guidelines, Scouts contribute to conservation and ensure that the outdoors remain beautiful and accessible for future generations.

The Pledge of Allegiance

For the Scout rank, requirement 1f is about learning and understanding the Pledge of Allegiance. This requirement encourages Scouts to reflect on their relationship with their country and the meaning of citizenship.

• I pledge allegiance: This means “I promise to be loyal.”
• to the flag: The flag here is the symbol of the United States of America.
• of the United States of America: This specifies the country to which the pledge is being made.
• and to the Republic: A republic is a type of government where people choose leaders to make decisions for them.
• for which it stands: This means the flag represents the United States and its values.
• one nation: This emphasizes that, despite being made up of many states, the USA is a single country.
• under God: These words were added to the pledge in 1954 and mean that the nation is guided by religious faith. This part can be interpreted in many ways, depending on personal beliefs.
• indivisible: This means the country cannot be divided or split apart.
• with liberty: Liberty means freedom.
• and justice: Justice means fairness in the way people are treated.
• for all.: This means that freedom and fairness should be for every person in the country.

Understanding the Pledge of Allegiance is a crucial step in a Scout’s development, emphasizing the values of citizenship and national unity. This reflection is part of their growth as members of their community and their nation.

Here are a few more resources which might help you with Scout Rank requirement 1:

Scouts BSA Basics Crossword Puzzle: Introduce these fundamental concepts with a crossword puzzle.

Scouts BSA Bingo: These bingo cards for Scouts BSA help familiarize Scouts with the Scout Law, Eagle required merit badges, some of the fun adventures they can look forward to, ranks, and more.

Trustworthy Tommy Song: This song will help you memorize the 12 points of the Scout Law

Scout Law Game: This game provides another way to learn the Scout Law.

Scout Law Word Search Puzzle: Yet another fun way to learn the Scout Law.

Scouts BSA Trivia Quiz: Test your knowledge with an online quiz.

Leadership Roles Within the Troop

For the Scout rank, requirement 2a focuses on understanding how leadership works within a Scout troop. This helps new Scouts see how they can contribute to their troop’s success and what roles they might aspire to in the future.

Scout troops are led by the Scouts themselves, with adult guidance. This system helps Scouts learn responsibility, teamwork, and leadership skills. Here are some key leadership roles typically found in a Scout troop:

• Senior Patrol Leader (SPL): This Scout is elected by all the troop members and leads meetings and activities. They help plan and carry out the troop’s program.
• Assistant Senior Patrol Leader (ASPL): This role supports the Senior Patrol leader, helping to keep the troop organized.
• Patrol Leader: Each patrol within the troop has a leader, elected by their patrol members. They represent their patrol at planning meetings and lead their members during activities.
• Assistant Patrol Leader: This role supports the Patrol Leader, helping to organize the patrol and step in when the Patrol Leader is unavailable.
• Quartermaster: Responsible for troop gear and equipment, ensuring everything is in good condition for activities.
• Scribe: Keeps track of troop records and meeting minutes.
• Librarian: Manages troop literature, like merit badge pamphlets and other resources.

For more details on these and other roles and how they contribute to the troop’s leadership and success, you can visit this resource: Scouts BSA Youth Leadership Positions. This link provides a deeper look into each position and its importance within the troop.

The Four Steps of Scout Advancement

Advancing through ranks in Scouts BSA is an exciting part of a Scout’s journey. For the Scout rank, requirement 2b helps Scouts understand how they progress from one rank to the next. Here are the four steps of Scout advancement:

1. Learn: Scouts are expected to learn new skills and knowledge for each rank requirement. These skills can be learned during troop meetings, outings, or through individual study and practice.
2. Test: After learning the skills, Scouts demonstrate what they have learned. This testing is usually done by a Scout leader or a more experienced Scout. The goal is to ensure that the Scout truly understands and can apply what they have learned.
3. Review: Once a Scout has completed all the requirements for a rank, they participate in a Scoutmaster Conference. This is a discussion with the Scoutmaster where they review what the Scout has learned and discuss their experiences in the troop and how they have applied Scouting values in their life.
4. Recognition: After the Scoutmaster Conference, the Scout goes before a Board of Review. This is a group of troop committee members who talk with the Scout about their growth and achievements. Once the Board of Review approves, the Scout is officially recognized with their new rank at a troop ceremony.

These steps are designed to teach Scouts not only specific skills but also to encourage growth in character and responsibility. Each step builds on the last, helping Scouts achieve their full potential in the program and develop a deep understanding and commitment to the Scouting principles.

Scouts BSA Ranks

For the Scout rank, requirement 2c is about understanding the different ranks within Scouts BSA and how each is earned. This knowledge helps Scouts set goals and understand the path they will follow in their Scouting journey.

1. Scout Rank: The starting point for new Scouts where they learn the basics of the Scouting program including the Scout Oath, Law, motto, and slogan.
2. Tenderfoot: Focuses on basic camping and outdoor skills, physical fitness, and learning about citizenship and personal safety.
3. Second Class: Builds on the skills learned as a Tenderfoot with a focus on more advanced outdoor skills, fitness, and preparation for emergencies.
4. First Class: Completes the introduction to basic Scout skills. Scouts work on cooking, navigation, and first aid, becoming proficient in skills that support outdoor adventures.
5. Star Rank: Transition from learning skills to leading others. Service and leadership are key components, along with earning merit badges.
6. Life Rank: Prepares Scouts for the highest rank—Eagle Scout. Focus is on leadership, service projects, and merit badges that build personal growth and skills.
7. Eagle Scout: The highest rank. Requires completion of an extensive service project that the Scout plans, organizes, leads, and manages.

Earning each rank involves a progression of learning skills, demonstrating those skills, taking on leadership roles, performing service projects, and passing board reviews. As Scouts advance, they take on more responsibility and develop a deeper understanding of what it means to be a Scout.

Learn more about the Scouts BSA ranks here.

The journey through these ranks is designed to help Scouts grow in character, fitness, citizenship, and leadership. Each rank challenges Scouts in different ways, preparing them for their future roles within and outside of Scouting.

Exploring Interests with Merit Badges

For the Scout rank, requirement 2d helps Scouts understand what merit badges are and how they are earned. Merit badges are awards earned by Scouts through the completion of specific requirements in various areas of interest.

What Are Merit Badges?

Merit badges are a key component of the advancement system in Scouts BSA. Each badge covers a different topic, ranging from outdoor activities like camping and hiking to skills such as cooking and personal management, and even career-oriented subjects like architecture and medicine. There are over 135 merit badges, allowing Scouts to explore interests and learn new skills.

How Are Merit Badges Earned?

Earning a merit badge involves several steps:

1. Choose a Badge: Scouts pick a merit badge they are interested in and discuss their choice with their Scout leader to get a signed blue card, which is used to track their progress.
2. Find a Counselor: Each merit badge has a counselor, an adult who has expertise in the subject. The counselor guides the Scout through the badge requirements.
3. Complete Requirements: Scouts work with their counselor to complete the specific requirements of the merit badge. This often involves learning new skills, creating projects, or performing tasks.
4. Demonstrate Mastery: After completing the requirements, Scouts show their knowledge and skills to the counselor to prove they have learned what is necessary.
5. Get Approval: Once the counselor is satisfied, they sign off on the blue card. The Scout then presents this to their troop leaders to receive the badge.

Merit badges encourage Scouts to learn about different fields, develop new hobbies, and gain skills that can be useful throughout their lives. They are also a great way for Scouts to take responsibility for their own learning and growth.

For more detailed information on merit badges and tips on how to earn them, you can visit this resource: Scouts BSA Merit Badges. This link provides a list of merit badges available and how Scouts can successfully earn them.

Knot Tying

For the Scout rank, requirement 4a teaches Scouts essential knot-tying skills. This skill set is vital for various Scouting activities, especially camping and hiking.

• Square Knot: This knot is used to join two ends of a rope of similar thickness. It’s useful for tying bandages or securing items together quickly. The square knot is easy to tie and untie.
• Two Half-Hitches: This knot is used for securing a rope to a pole or another object. It’s effective for setting up a tent or hanging items from a branch. Two half-hitches are simple and reliable for load-bearing tasks.
• Tautline Hitch: This adjustable knot is perfect when you need to tighten or loosen a line without retying it. It’s ideal for securing tent guy lines because it allows for adjustment as the line stretches or as weather conditions change.

These skills are fundamental for all Scouts as they ensure safety and efficiency in many outdoor activities. Learning and practicing these knots and rope care techniques not only help Scouts meet their rank requirements but also equip them with valuable life skills for outdoor adventures.

Rope Care

For the Scout rank, requirement 4b teaches Scouts how to take care of ropes. This knowledge ensures that ropes stay intact and can be used for their intended purposes.

• Whipping: This technique involves wrapping the end of a rope with a small string or twine to prevent it from fraying. Whipping is essential for maintaining the integrity and longevity of ropes used in Scouting.
• Fusing: Applied to synthetic ropes, fusing involves melting the ends with a small flame to seal them. This prevents the rope from unraveling and ensures it remains strong and usable.

By mastering these rope care techniques, Scouts become more prepared and confident in handling various tasks during their Scouting adventures and daily life.

Knot Terminology: Before starting knot tying for the Scout rank requirements, it is helpful to know the terms commonly used.

Participating in a Scoutmaster Conference

For the Scout rank, requirement 7 involves participating in a Scoutmaster conference. This is an important step in the Scouting journey, providing a valuable opportunity for Scouts to reflect on their progress and set goals for future advancement.

A Scoutmaster conference is a one-on-one meeting between a Scout and their Scoutmaster. This meeting usually takes place after a Scout has completed the requirements for a rank but before they go before the Board of Review. The conference is not a test but a chance for the Scoutmaster to get to know the Scout better, discuss their experiences in the troop, and understand their goals in Scouting.

Purpose of the Scoutmaster Conference

• Review the Scout’s Progress: The Scoutmaster discusses what the Scout has learned while working towards their current rank, reviewing both successes and challenges.
• Set Goals: The Scoutmaster helps the Scout set personal and Scouting goals for the future.
• Encourage Personal Development: The conference is an opportunity to encourage continuous improvement and involvement in the troop.
• Strengthen Relationships: It strengthens the relationship between the Scout and the Scoutmaster, fostering a supportive environment.

Suggestions for a Successful Scoutmaster Conference

• Be Prepared: Scouts should come prepared to discuss what they’ve learned, ask questions, and share their thoughts on their Scouting journey.
• Be Honest: This is a chance for Scouts to speak openly about their experiences, what they enjoy, and what they find challenging.
• Listen Carefully: Pay attention to the feedback and advice from the Scoutmaster, as it is valuable for future growth.

Participating in a Scoutmaster conference is a key requirement for the Scout rank and an enriching experience that supports a Scout’s development. It helps ensure that Scouts are ready to advance and fully benefit from their Scouting activities.

For more information on what to expect and how to prepare for a Scoutmaster conference, you can visit this resource: What is a Scoutmaster Conference?. This provides detailed insights into the purpose and process of the conference, helping Scouts and their parents understand its importance.

What do I need to do to earn the Scout rank?

To earn the Scout rank, you must complete a series of requirements such as learning the Scout Oath, Law, motto, and slogan, demonstrating the Scout sign, salute, and handshake, and participating in a Scoutmaster conference.

How long does it usually take to complete the Scout rank?

The time it takes to complete the Scout rank can vary. Generally, if you attend meetings regularly and participate actively, it might take just a few weeks to fulfill all the requirements.

Should I start working on the Scout rank requirements right after I join?

Yes, you should start working on the Scout rank requirements as soon as you join a troop. It is actually the first rank you should work on when you become a Scouts BSA member.

Do I need a uniform to earn the Scout rank?

You don’t need a uniform to complete most of the Scout rank requirements. However, wearing a uniform is encouraged as it promotes equality and pride in being a Scout.

What should I do to prepare for the Scout rank?

Familiarize yourself with the Scout Oath, Law, motto, slogan, and other skills necessary for the Scout rank.

Who checks if I have completed my Scout rank requirements?

Your Scoutmaster or another designated troop leader will review your completed requirements. You must show them that you know and understand what is required for the Scout rank.

What is the purpose of the Scoutmaster conference for the Scout rank?

The Scoutmaster conference lets you discuss what you have learned, how you have participated in the troop, and what you have enjoyed about your Scouting experience so far. It’s also a chance to set goals for your next rank.

Can I complete the Scout rank requirements with my friends?

Some activities can be done with friends, like learning knots or discussing the Scout Oath and Law. However, some parts, like the Scoutmaster conference, must be done individually.

The Scout rank is the entry-level rank in the Scouts BSA program, designed to introduce new members to the fundamentals of Scouting. Upon joining a troop, Scouts begin working on this rank which sets the tone for their Scouting experience.

To earn the Scout rank, Scouts learn the Scout Oath, Law, motto, and slogan. These principles guide all activities and behaviors in Scouting, promoting moral choices and leadership. Scouts also demonstrate basic skills such as the Scout sign, salute, and handshake, which are used during meetings and ceremonies to show respect and unity.

Earning the Scout rank involves understanding the importance of active participation in troop activities. Scouts are encouraged to attend troop meetings and engage in discussions about troop leadership and the patrol method. This engagement helps Scouts grasp the structure and goals of their troop and prepares them for future ranks.

The Scoutmaster conference, an essential part of advancing from the Scout rank, provides a personal opportunity for Scouts to reflect on their growth, discuss their experiences, and set goals for their Scouting journey. This one-on-one conversation ensures that each Scout is ready to move forward with confidence and a deeper understanding of Scouting values.