What is Advancement?

Advancement is the process by which youth members of the Boy Scouts of America progress from rank to rank in the Scouting program. Advancement is simply a means to an end, not an end in itself. Everything done to advance and earn these ranks, from joining until leaving the program, should be designed to help the young person have an exciting and meaningful experience.

Education and fun are functions of the Scouting movement, providing the basis of the advancement program. Advancement in the Boy Scouts of America emphasizes the growth a young person experiences as a result of participation in unit programs.

What resources are available?

Most Cub Scout advancement questions are answered in the Wolf, Bear, and Webelos handbooks or the Cub Scout Leader Book. The Advancement Committee Policies and Procedures booklet aimed at council, district, and unit advancement committees may also be helpful.

Most Boy Scout advancement questions are answered in the Boy Scout Handbook or the Scoutmaster Handbook. Rank and merit badge requirements are listed in the latest edition of the Boy Scout Requirements book. You can also check the Advancement committee Policies and Procedures aimed at council, district, and unit advancement committees.

Most Venturing advancement questions are answered in the Venturer Handbook.

There are many Scouting resources related to youth with disabilities. Scouting for Youth with Physical Disabilities, Scouting for Youth with Learning Disabilities, Scouting for the Blind and Visually Impaired, A Guide to Working with Boy Scouts with Disabilities to name a few.

Resources may be purchased at the Puget Sound Scout Shops

Who can I speak with?

 In your unit, den leaders, Cubmasters, Scoutmasters, and Venturing crew advisors are likely to have information on advancement. Unit, or district advancement chairs, unit commissioners, or district Eagle Scout coordinators are also able and happy to assist you with any questions. Their contact information should be available on your district web page.
 

Cub Scout Advancement
Boy Scout Advancement
Eagle Scout Advancement
Venturing Advancement