Guide to Advancement 2025

BSA Mission Statement

The mission of Scouting America is to prepare young people to make ethical and moral choices over their lifetimes by instilling in them the values of the Scout Oath and Scout Law.

The Aims of Scouting

Every Scouting activity moves young people toward the basic aims of: character development, citizenship training, leadership, and mental and physical fitness.

Advancement is one of the eight methods used by Scout leaders to help youth fulfill the aims of Scouting America.

Policy on Unauthorized Changes to Advancement Program

No council, committee, district, unit, or individual has the authority to add to, or subtract from, advancement requirements, or deviate from policies in this publication. There are limited exceptions relating only to members with special needs. For details see Section 10, “Advancement for Members With Special Needs.”

Mandated Procedures and Recommended Practices

This publication clearly identifies mandated procedures with the word “must.” Where such language is used, no council, committee, district, unit, or individual has the authority to deviate from the procedures covered without the written permission of the National Program Committee or their designee. Highly recommended best practices are offered using words like “should,” while other options and guidelines are indicated with terms such as “may” or “can.” Refer questions on these to your local district or council advancement chairs or staff advisors. They, in turn, may request interpretations and assistance from the National Program Committee or their designee.

The Guide to Safe Scouting Applies

Policies and procedures outlined in the Guide to Safe Scouting apply to all Scouting America activities, including those related to advancement and Eagle Scout, Summit, and Quartermaster service projects.

What Does “Unit Leader” Mean?

Throughout this publication the term “unit leader” refers only to a Cubmaster, Scoutmaster, Venturing Advisor, Sea Scout Skipper, or Lone Scout friend and counselor. “Unit leadership” and “leader” are used as generic references to any registered adult leader in a unit and as such would include the unit leader.

What Does “Scouts BSA Handbook” Mean?

Throughout this publication, the term Scouts BSA Handbook refers to both the Scouts BSA Handbook for Boys and the Scouts BSA Handbook for Girls.

How Is a “Month” Defined?

A month is a month regardless how many days it has. It is not defined as 30 days or four weeks. February 2 up to and including August 1, or August 31 up to and including February 28 (or 29th if leap year) are examples of six-month periods. Six months does not mean 180 days.