Ranks
NEW RANK REQUIREMENTS AS OF 1/1/16. Old requirements will NOT be signed off.
Printable Handbook Insert with New Requirements
Click a rank to be directed to its requirements, which are also available in the Scout Handbook. Also see the BSA Guide to Advancement.
Signing-Off on Ranks
Rank requirements for Star and above may be signed-off ONLY by the Scoutmaster. All other rank requirements may be signed-off ONLY by the Scoutmaster, an Assistant Scoutmaster, Senior Patrol Leader, Assistant Senior Patrol Leader, Patrol Leader (of at least First Class Rank), Instructor and Troop Guide, but siblings may not sign off on each other. An adult leader may not sign off for their son, other than for witnessing attendance or acknowledging tracking logs. Signing off should be done promptly after completion of the requirement (within 30 days), or credit may be denied.
Scoutmaster Conference/Board of Review
Scouts ready and wishing to advance must request a Scoutmaster Conference and Board of Review in person by speaking directly with the Scoutmaster and presenting their updated Scout handbook at least two weeks before an Advancement Night. Absent pre-approval from the Scoutmaster, Scouts MUST be in full Class A uniform (with sash for Scouts First Class and above and updated/correct patches and labeled on the inside with the Scout's name) for any Scoutmaster Conference and Board of Review. See our Uniform, Books & Gear page for more info.
A Board of Review is comprised of non-leader adults unrelated to the Scout. Participation in a BOR is a way for us, as the Troop 71 community, to ensure that the Scouts (instructed by youth leadership under adult supervision and guidance) are getting the most they can out of the scouting program, have satisfactorily met the individual requirements for a rank, foster positive relationships with both peers and adults, and are looking to improve themselves and the community around them by living the Scout Oath and Law.
Eagle Scout Service Project Flyer
Eagle candidates who want their service project flyer distributed to the Troop via email or posted on the Troop's Facebook page and website should email it in PDF to the Scoutmaster. Prior to the distribution, the Eagle candidate must make a 10-minute presentation about his service project at a Troop meeting. The presentation must describe the project and its benefactor, explain how the Scout found and planned the project, when and where it will take place and what Scouts need to bring and wear, and indicate whether food will be provided. This presentation should be scheduled/coordinated with the Senior Patrol Leader.