Eagle Scout Approval Process
The Eagle Scout Rank is a major milestone in the life of any Scout, as it is the pinnacle of all of the program, development, and leadership that Scouting provides its youth members. To attain the rank of Eagle is no easy feat: it requires the determination of the Scout, as well as the support and guidance of many adults, family members, volunteers, and community leaders.
As this rank is the shining light and example of Scouting at a national level, easily identifiable in all walks of life, the process of earning such a prestigious award is not one to be taken lightly. The integrity of the Eagle Scout rank and approval process is deeply important to all volunteers and councils in the Boy Scouts of America.
Eagle Rank Details
From the time a Scout passes his Life Scout Board of Review, he may begin to complete the requirements for the Eagle Scout Rank. These requirements include completing any of the outstanding 21 merit badges needed for the rank, serving in a position of responsibility in the unit, as well as being active in their Troop for a period of 6 months. The Life Scout must also plan, develop, and give leadership in a service project of his choice.
All requirements for the Eagle Rank, including the service project and Scoutmaster conference, MUST BE COMPLETED before the applicant’s 18th birthday. The Board of Review may be held after the applicant’s 18th birthday under some circumstances; please call the local office to discuss your options.
Applying for Eagle
As part of the requirements for the Eagle Scout Rank, the Scout must plan, develop, and give leadership to a project of their choice and design. The Leatherstocking Council Advancement Committee has developed a “Life to Eagle” checklist and set of guidelines to ensure the project proposal meets the standards set for a meaningful project
Scoutbook
Eagle Scout Rank Application, – An Eagle Application report is available in the “Scoutbook” Program. It is available on the Scout Reports menu to anyone with a Full Access connection to the Scout, or by the Scout themselves (if they were set up).
The report is the official BSA Eagle Application. It is an editable PDF, filled in with information contained in Scoutbook, including merit badges, leadership positions, and various dates. It must be downloaded to your computer before editing. The Scout should make sure that all information is correct, and to complete all other required information on the application.
Reference Letters & the Letter of Ambition
The required “Reference Letters” noted on your Eagle application need to be received at the council office prior to your Eagle Board of Review meeting. Please send these letters out when you are starting your Eagle Project approval process. The sooner these are distributed the better. A “Statement of Ambition” is also required as noted in our “Life to Eagle” checklist section 10.
General Policy
Information contained in the National Boy Scouts of America’s Guide to Advancement is the guiding policy in the Eagle Scout rank process and rules in the event of policy conflict. The Guide may be viewed online or downloaded as a PDF document.