How Does Advancement Work in Scouts?

Scouting provides a series of surmountable obstacles and steps in overcoming them through the advancement method. The Scout plans their advancement and progresses at their own pace as they meets each challenge. The Scout is rewarded for each achievement, which helps them gain self-confidence. The steps in the advancement system help a Scout grow in self-reliance and in the ability to help others

Scouts progress through a series of ranks on their way to the highest rank, Eagle Scout.  Scouting differs from the Cub Scouts in that each youth will progress at their own pace.  

In addition to ranks, there are over 130 Merit Badges that a Scout may earn.  Merit badges cover a huge number of topics such as hobbies like Geocaching and Stamp Collecting, personal development skills like Communications and Personal Fitness, and professional skills like Welding and Drafting.

Certain merit badges are required to earn the rank of Eagle Scout, such as First Aid, Camping, various Citizenship badges.

To learn more about advancement, visit Scouting America Advancement & Awards page. Here you can see the requirements for ranks and merit badges; it is an excellent resource for both Scouts and parents.