Advancement and recognition in Scouting America

Scouting uses eight methods to fulfill its aims of character development, citizenship training, leadership, and physical fitness.{{sfn|Guide to Advancement 2021|page=8}} Advancement is one of the eight methods. Cub Scouts use activities call Adventures to earn promotion, following a three step process of: preparation, qualification, and recognition.{{sfn|Guide to Advancement 2021|page=15}} Cub Scouting is designed to function around the traditional school year with the goal of earning advancement by the end of the year. Youth participate in Cub Scouting from age 5 to 10, working through Lion, Bobcat, Tiger, Wolf, Bear, Webelos, and Arrow of Light.{{sfn|Guide to Advancement 2021|page=16-17}}

In addition to the Adventures used to earn promotion, Cub Scouts can work to earn multiple other individual awards though participation in special programs, many of which happen during the summer time. These include Outdoor Activity Award, Shooting Sports Award, World Conservation Award, National Summer Time Pack Award, Whittling Chip (For Bears and Webelos), Cyber-chip, Interpreter Strip, Messenger of Peace, Nova and Supernova, Recruiter Strip, Religious Emblems, and Service Stars.{{Cite web |url=https://www.scouting.org/programs/cub-scouts/what-cub-scouts-earn/other-youth-awards/ |title=Other Youth Awards |author= |website=Scouting.Org |access-date=22 March 2022}}

{{Main|Ranks in Scouts BSA}}

The advancement program for Scouting America (formerly known as Scouts BSA) has two phases. The first phase of Scout to First Class is designed to teach the Scoutcraft skills, how to participate in a group and to learn self-reliance. Scout is the joining rank, and is awarded when the Scout demonstrates a rudimentary knowledge of the Scouting ideals.{{Cite web | url = http://usscouts.org/advance/boyscout/bsrank1.asp | title = Boy Scout Joining Requirements | publisher = U.S. Scouting Service Project | access-date = March 23, 2006}} Tenderfoot,{{Cite web | url = http://usscouts.org/advance/boyscout/bsrank2.asp | title = Tenderfoot Rank Requirement | publisher = U.S. Scouting Service Project | access-date = March 23, 2006}} Second Class{{Cite web | url = http://usscouts.org/advance/boyscout/bsrank3.asp | title = Second Class Rank Requirement | publisher = U.S. Scouting Service Project | access-date = March 23, 2006}} and First Class{{Cite web | url = http://usscouts.org/advance/boyscout/bsrank4.asp | title = First Class Rank Requirement | publisher = U.S. Scouting Service Project | access-date = March 23, 2006}} have progressively harder requirements in the areas of Scoutcraft, physical fitness, citizenship, personal growth and Scout Spirit.

Focus turns toward individual achievement, leadership and community service once First Class is earned. The ranks of Star,{{Cite web | url = http://usscouts.org/advance/boyscout/bsrank5.asp | title = Star Scout Rank Requirements | publisher = U.S. Scouting Service Project | access-date = March 15, 2010}} Life{{Cite web | url = http://usscouts.org/advance/boyscout/bsrank6.asp | title = Life Scout Rank Requirements | publisher = U.S. Scouting Service Project | access-date = March 15, 2010 | archive-url = https://web.archive.org/web/20100416062740/http://usscouts.org/advance/boyscout/bsrank6.asp | archive-date = April 16, 2010 | url-status= live}} and Eagle{{Cite web | url = http://usscouts.org/advance/boyscout/bsrank7.asp | title = Eagle Scout Rank Requirements | publisher = U.S. Scouting Service Project | access-date = March 15, 2010 | archive-url = https://web.archive.org/web/20100412182256/http://www.usscouts.org/advance/boyscout/bsrank7.asp | archive-date = April 12, 2010 | url-status= live}} require a set number of merit badges (minimum of 21 for Eagle Scout, with 13 from a compulsory list), as well as a minimum of time spent in a troop leadership position, and community service requirements, among other things. The rank of Eagle Scout requires the Scout plan, develop and lead their own service project that benefits their community or an organization other than Scouting. In 2010, the Life Scout rank added a specific teaching requirement, where a Star-rank Scout must teach a younger Scout certain requirements for one of the early ranks.

Several religious emblems programs are administered by various religious institutions and recognized by Scouting America. These are generally recognized by a medal and an embroidered square knot. Many other advancement and recognitions—such as the 50-Miler Award, Aquatics Awards, Outdoor Ethics Awards, Crime Prevention Award, Emergency Preparedness Award and World Conservation Award —are available to Scouts who show performance in special areas.

Scouts may earn the Den Chief Service Award for their service as a Cub Scout Den Chief.{{Cite web | url = http://www.scouting.org/cubscouts/awards/adults/adultawards.aspx | title = Cub Scout Leader Recognition Awards | publisher = Boy Scouts of America | access-date = February 6, 2006 |url-status=dead | archive-url = https://web.archive.org/web/20080405201547/http://www.scouting.org/cubscouts/awards/adults/adultawards.aspx | archive-date = April 5, 2008}}

There are also several positions of responsibility within each troop, which is usually divided into patrols, with patrol leaders and assistant patrol leaders. The troop itself has a senior patrol leader as its youth leader, along with an assistant senior patrol leader, and several other positions of responsibility, such as scribe, quartermaster, librarian, instructor, historian and chaplain's aide. Holding some sort of responsibility in the troop is a requirement for higher advancement ranks.

{{Main|Honors and awards of the Order of the Arrow}}

The Order of the Arrow is Scouting America's national honor society for experienced campers.

Awards are separate and distinct from the membership levels of Ordeal and Brotherhood. Awards available through the Order of the Arrow include the Vigil Honor, Founder's Award, Distinguished Service Award, Lifetime Achievement Award, Red Arrow Award, E. Urner Goodman Camping Award, E. Urner Goodman, Scholarship Fund, National Service Award. Scholastic awards are also available to Arrowmen to aid in education expenses.{{Cite book | title = Scholarships, Grants and Prizes 2007 | year = 2007 | publisher = Peterson's | isbn = 978-0-7689-2314-8 | page = 494 | url = https://books.google.com/books?id=sTPhI2F-DAcC&q=%22order+of+the+arrow%22&pg=PA494}}

{{Main|Varsity Scouting (Boy Scouts of America)#Advancement and recognition}}

Advancement was a key part of the Varsity program. Varsity Scouts could earn any award or recognition that were available to Boy Scouts, including merit badges, ranks advancements, and other awards. There were also several awards that were only available to Varsity Scouts, and sometimes their leaders. Due to the decision by the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-Day Saints to cease participation in the Varsity Scouting program, the Boy Scouts of America decided to end the Varsity Scouting program, effective January 1, 2018.{{Cite web | first1 = Jason | last1 = Swenson | first2 = Camille | last2 = West | title = Church Replacing Varsity and Venturing Scouting with New Activities Program | url = https://www.churchofjesuschrist.org/church/news/church-replacing-varsity-and-venturing-scouting-with-new-activities-program?lang=eng | website = The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-Day Saints | publisher = Intellectual Reserve | access-date = September 1, 2018 | date = May 11, 2017 | quote = The First Presidency has announced that effective January 1, 2018, the Church will discontinue its Varsity and Venturing Scouting programs for young men ages 14–18 in the United States and Canada, replacing them with a new activities program.}}

{{Main|Venturing#Rank advancement}}

{{Update|section|date=June 2019|reason=the awards have all been changed for Venturing. There is no more Bronze, Gold, or Silver awards. Quartermaster no longer applies as Sea Scouting split out from Venturing}}

A Bronze Award{{Cite web | url = http://www.scouting.org/Venturing/Awards/bronze.aspx | title = Venturing Bronze Award | publisher = Boy Scouts of America | access-date = March 15, 2006 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20080303060743/http://www.scouting.org/Venturing/Awards/bronze.aspx |archive-date=March 3, 2008 |url-status=dead}} may be earned for each category of arts and hobbies, outdoor, community and religious life, sea Scouting and sports. After earning at least one Bronze Award and meeting tenure, leadership, personal growth and other requirements the Venturer may earn the Gold Award.{{Cite web | url = http://www.scouting.org/Venturing/Awards/gold.aspx | title = Venturing Gold Award | publisher = Boy Scouts of America | access-date = March 15, 2006 |url-status=dead | archive-url = https://web.archive.org/web/20080303193654/http://www.scouting.org/Venturing/Awards/gold.aspx | archive-date = March 3, 2008}} To earn the Silver Award,{{Cite web | url = http://www.scouting.org/Venturing/Awards/silver.aspx | title = Venturing Silver Award | publisher = Boy Scouts of America | access-date = March 15, 2006 |url-status=dead | archive-url = https://web.archive.org/web/20080303193718/http://www.scouting.org/Venturing/Awards/silver.aspx | archive-date = March 3, 2008}} the Venturer must earn the Gold Award, earn first aid and CPR certifications, show leadership and participate in ethics training.

Venturers may also earn expert awards that build on some areas of the Bronze Awards.

These include the Venturing Ranger Award{{Cite web | url = http://www.scouting.org/Venturing/Awards/ranger.aspx | title = Venturing Ranger Award | publisher = Boy Scouts of America | access-date = April 20, 2006 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20080303193713/http://www.scouting.org/Venturing/Awards/ranger.aspx |archive-date=March 3, 2008 |url-status=dead}} (Outdoors);

the TRUST Award{{Cite web | url = http://www.scouting.org/Venturing/Awards/trust.aspx | title = Venturing Trust Award | publisher = Boy Scouts of America | access-date = April 20, 2006 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20080303214658/http://www.scouting.org/Venturing/Awards/trust.aspx |archive-date=March 3, 2008 |url-status=dead}} (Community and Religious Life);

the Quest Award{{Cite web | url = http://www.scouting.org/Venturing/Awards/quest.aspx | title = Venturing Quest Award | publisher = Boy Scouts of America | access-date = April 20, 2006 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20080303193708/http://www.scouting.org/Venturing/Awards/quest.aspx |archive-date=March 3, 2008 |url-status=dead}} (Sports);

and the Quartermaster Award{{Cite web | url = http://www.scouting.org/Venturing/Awards/quarter.aspx | title = Sea Scouting Quartermaster Award | publisher = Boy Scouts of America | access-date = April 20, 2006 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20080303174559/http://www.scouting.org/Venturing/Awards/quarter.aspx |archive-date=March 3, 2008 |url-status=dead}} (Sea Scouting).

Male members under the age of 18 may also earn Merit Badges and the Star, Life, and Eagle Scout ranks from the Scouts BSA program if they have earned at least First Class rank in a Scout troop.

{{Main|Venturing Leadership Award}}

Both youth and adults are eligible for the Venturing Leadership Award. There are three levels of these awards: council (for those at the crew, district, and/or council levels), region (for those at the area or region levels) and National. A limited number of these awards are presented on an annual basis to those involved in Venturing who have made exceptional contributions to Venturing at their particular level and who exemplify the Venturing Code. These awards are similar in scope to the Silver Beaver Award, Silver Antelope Award, and Silver Buffalo Award.

In Sea Scouts, the traditional advancement program consists of the 4 ranks in the following order Apprentice, Ordinary, Able, and finally Quartermaster. Quartermaster is the highest Sea Scout Rank and is equivalent to Eagle Scout or Venturing Silver Award.

SEAL Training, (Sea Scout Experience Advanced Leadership Training ), is the highest level of Leadership Training. The program originated in 1996 and at the time was under the name of Sea Exploring, however in 1998 when Venturing was formed the organization was known as Sea Scouts. The name SEAL training did not change. There are about 4-6 course per year held around the country. Participants age over 14.5 to less than 18 years old. Participants must have earned the rank of Ordinary before attending the course. Approximately 80% of participants pass the course. The course is similar to NAYLE or what was previously known as NJLIC. Upon successful graduation from the course the student may wear the SEAL Pin on their uniform. This is the only youth earned pin that an Adult may wear.

Sea Scouts may choose to earn any Venturing awards, advancement, and training if they wish to. A male Sea Scout who has earned the rank of 1st Class in a Boy Scout Troop may complete further Boy Scout ranks and training from within his Sea Scout Ship.

Since March 1954, the Outdoor Code has represented the core teachings of "Scouting's Outdoor Ethics" and serves as both a goal and a promise:{{cite web |title=The Outdoor Code |url=https://www.scouting.org/outdoor-programs/outdoor-ethics/outdoor-code/ |website=Boy Scouts of America}}

As an American, I will do my best to –

Be clean in my outdoor manners.

Be careful with fire.

Be considerate in the outdoors.

Be conservation minded.

BSA's National Court of Honor is responsible for lifesaving and meritorious awards.{{Cite web | url = http://www.usscouts.org/usscouts/advance/heroism.asp | title = National Court of Honor — Lifesaving and Meritorious Awards | publisher = US Scouts.org | access-date = April 28, 2008 | archive-url = https://web.archive.org/web/20080416185904/http://usscouts.org/usscouts/advance/heroism.asp | archive-date = April 16, 2008 | url-status= live}}{{Cite web | url = http://www.missourivalleytimes.com/main.asp?SectionID=2&SubSectionID=2&ArticleID=993&TM=56281.27 | title = National Court of Honor will fete the scouts of the Little Sioux Scout Ranch | date = September 12, 2008 | publisher = Missouri Valley Times | access-date = October 31, 2008 | archive-date = July 14, 2011 | archive-url = https://web.archive.org/web/20110714102158/http://www.missourivalleytimes.com/main.asp?SectionID=2&SubSectionID=2&ArticleID=993&TM=56281.27 | url-status = dead }} All Courts of Honor for Eagle Scout rank are convened as National Courts of Honor also.

;Honor Medal With Crossed Palms

:A lifesaving award presented to a registered BSA member (youth or adult leader) who has demonstrated both unusual heroism and extraordinary skill or resourcefulness in saving or attempting to save a life at extreme risk to self; may be awarded posthumously.

;Honor Medal

:A lifesaving award presented to a registered BSA member (youth or adult leader) who has demonstrated unusual heroism in saving or attempting to save a life at considerable risk to self.

;Heroism Award

:A lifesaving award presented to a registered BSA member (youth or adult leader) who has demonstrated heroism and skill in saving or attempting to save life at minimal personal risk.{{Cite web | first1 = Bryan | last1 = Wendell | title = BSA reinstates Heroism Award, one of three national-level lifesaving awards | url = https://blog.scoutingmagazine.org/2018/08/29/bsa-reinstates-heroism-award-one-of-three-national-level-lifesaving-awards/ | website = Bryan on Scouting | publisher = Boy Scouts of America | access-date = September 1, 2018 | date = August 29, 2018 | quote = The Heroism Award was first presented in 1977 and discontinued in late 2012. Its official reinstatement came after a vote by the National Executive Board in February 2018.}}

;Medal of Merit

:Awarded to BSA members (youth or adult leaders) who have performed an outstanding act of service and exceptional character by putting into practice Scouting skills and ideals. It does not need to involve risk to self.

;National Certificate of Merit

:This award may be presented by the National Court of Honor to a registered BSA member (youth or adult leader) who has performed a significant act of service that is deserving of special national recognition. Such action need not involve attempts of rescue or risk to self, but puts into practice Scouting skills or ideals.

;Local Council Certificate of Merit (No. 606760)

:This may be awarded by local BSA councils for individual meritorious actions by a registered BSA member (youth or adult leader) that do not merit national recognition.

These STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering and Math) awards are for all three levels of youth scouting.{{Cite web | last = Boy Scouts of America | title = Stem/Nova | url = http://www.scouting.org/stem.aspx | website = Boy Scouts of America|access-date=October 17, 2017|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20151117024939/http://www.scouting.org/stem.aspx|archive-date=November 17, 2015|url-status=dead}} Cub Scouts, Boy Scouts and Venturers may all earn up to four Nova awards, each based on one of the four STEM principles. The Supernova award is a culmination of the youth's work on the Nova award and there are a number of various Supernova awards that the scout may earn.

{{See also|Leadership in the Boy Scouts of America}}

Cub Scout leaders who complete training, tenure, and performance requirements are recognized by a system of awards. The Cub Scout Den Leader Training Award is available for Den Leaders, the Scouter's Training Award is for any registered Cub Scout leader, and the Scouter's Key and Unit Leader Award of Merit are for Cubmasters. These awards are recognized by a certificate and an embroidered square knot insignia with the appropriate square knot device pin (indicates program or rank for which the award was earned).

Scouts, BSA adult leaders who complete training, tenure, and performance requirements are recognized by a system of awards. The Scouter's Training Award is available to any leader, while the Scoutmaster's Key and the Unit Leader Award of Merit are only available to the Scoutmaster.

The Boy Scouts of America ended the Varsity Scouting program, effective January 1, 2018.

Adult Varsity leaders were able to earn the Varsity Letter and activity pins. They met the same requirements as the youth and also had to complete Fast Start and Basic Leader Training (New Leader Essentials and Varsity Coach Leader Specific Training), attend six Varsity Roundtables, and complete a minimum of six months tenure.

Varsity Scout leaders who completed tenure, training and performance requirements were able to earn the Varsity Scout Leader Training Award. Varsity Coaches were able to earn the Varsity Coach's Key and the National President's Varsity Scout Coach Award of Merit.

Venturing adult leaders who complete training, tenure, and performance requirements are recognized by a system of awards. The Venturing Leader's Training Award{{Cite web | url = http://www.usscouts.org/awards/scoutertraining3.asp | title = Venturing Leader's Training Award | work = U.S. Scouts Service Project | access-date = March 30, 2006 |url-status=dead | archive-url = https://web.archive.org/web/20110613054727/http://www.usscouts.org/awards/scoutertraining3.asp | archive-date = June 13, 2011}} is available to any leader, while the Venturing Advisor's Key{{Cite web | url = http://www.usscouts.org/awards/scouterkey3.asp | title = Venturing Advisor's Key | work = U.S. Scouts Service Project | access-date = March 30, 2006 |url-status=dead | archive-url = https://web.archive.org/web/20071104153505/http://usscouts.org/awards/scouterkey3.asp | archive-date = November 4, 2007}} and Venturing Advisor Award of Merit{{Cite web | url = http://www.scouting.org/Venturing/Awards/merit.aspx | title = Venturing Advisor Award of Merit | work = U.S. Scouts Service Project | access-date = March 30, 2006 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20080303193744/http://www.scouting.org/venturing/awards/merit.aspx |archive-date=March 3, 2008 |url-status=dead}} are only available to the Advisor.

Sea Scout adult leaders who complete training, tenure, and performance requirements are recognized by a system of awards. The Sea Scout Leader's Training Award (part of the Scouter's Training Award series) is available to any leader, while the Skipper's Key is only available to Skippers. Seabadge is an advanced leadership program for all Sea Scout leaders. Seabadge can be worn as a pin or a knot with a single trident. Unofficial knots with multiple tridents are sometimes worn to represent a staff member or course director.

Sea Scout adult leaders may also wear the SEAL pin if they, earned it as a youth, served as course director, or served as a course director's mate.

Sea Scout adult leaders may also receive the Venturing Leadership Award

Commissioners who complete training, tenure, and performance requirements are recognized by a system of awards. The Arrowhead Honor is for commissioners who exhibit quality performance and leadership. The Roundtable Staff Training Award (part of the Scouter's Training Award series) is available to Cub Scout, Boy Scout, Varsity Scout and Venturing roundtable staff. The Commissioner's Key (part of the Scouter's Key series) is available for roundtable commissioners, district commissioner, assistant district commissioners, unit commissioners, council commissioners and assistant council commissioners. The Distinguished Commissioner Service Award recognizes commissioners who provide quality service over a period of at least five years.

The Scouter's Training Award is a set of recognitions for leaders who complete tenure, training and performance requirements.

• Cub Scout Leader's Training Award for the Cubmaster, Den Leaders, pack committee chair and pack committee members
• Scouts, BSA Leader's Training Award for the Scoutmaster, assistant Scoutmasters, troop committee chair and troop committee members
• Venturing Leader's Training Award for the Advisor, associate Advisors, crew committee chairman and crew committee members
• Sea Scout Leader's Training Award for the Skipper, mates, ship committee chairman and ship committee members

The Scouter's Key is a set of recognitions for primary unit leaders who complete advanced tenure, training and performance requirements.

• Cubmaster's Key
• Scoutmaster's Key
• Venturing Advisor's Key
• Commissioner's Key for roundtable commissioners, district commissioner, assistant district commissioners, unit commissioners, council commissioners and assistant council commissioner
• District Committee's Key for the district committee chairman and members

The Unit Leader Award of Merit is for Cubmasters, Scoutmasters, Venturing Crew Advisors, and Sea Scout Skippers who meet 7 requirements for tenure, personal training, unit quality and youth training.

• Cubmaster Award of Merit
• Scoutmaster Award of Merit
• Venturing Crew Advisor Award of Merit
• Sea Scout Skipper Award of Merit

• Powderhorn
• Wood Badge
• Sea Badge
• National Youth Leadership Training (NYLT)

Distinguished service awards are presented at various levels to recognize noteworthy and extraordinary service to youth.

• District Award of Merit – district level
• Silver Beaver Award – council level
• Silver Antelope Award – regional level
• Silver Buffalo Award – national level
• Silver World Award – international level
• National Eagle Scout Association Outstanding Eagle Scout Award – council to regional level
• Distinguished Eagle Scout Award – national level

• International Scouter's Award{{Cite web |url=http://www.scouting.org/International/Highlights/22-721.aspx |title=International Scouter's Award |access-date=February 26, 2008 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20080226171227/http://www.scouting.org/international/highlights/22-721.aspx |archive-date=February 26, 2008 |url-status=dead}}
• Community Organization Award"[http://www.scouting.org/Media/FactSheets/02-582.aspx BSA Community Organization Award fact sheet]." Retrieved on May 23, 2007. {{webarchive |url=https://web.archive.org/web/20080307184502/http://www.scouting.org/Media/FactSheets/02-582.aspx |date=March 7, 2008}}
• AFL–CIO George Meany Award (is also part of this category, but retains the use of its original square knot)
• Alpha Phi Omega Herbert G. Horton Service to Youth Award{{Cite web |url=http://www.apo.org/show/About_Us/Awards/National/Herbert_G_Horton_Service_to_Youth_Award |title=Alpha Phi Omega: National Service Fraternity {{!}} Herbert G Horton Service to Youth Award |access-date=July 13, 2007 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20070829065126/http://www.apo.org/show/About_Us/Awards/National/Herbert_G_Horton_Service_to_Youth_Award |archive-date=August 29, 2007 |url-status=dead}}
• American Legion Scouting Square Knot Award {{Cite web|url=https://www.legion.org/sitesearch/?s=homepage|title=Search | The American Legion|website=www.legion.org}}
• Benevolent and Protective Order of Elks (BPOE) Marvin M. Lewis Award {{Cite web|url=http://www.elks.org/grandlodge/youth/marvinlewis.cfm|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20070713203215/http://www.elks.org/GrandLodge/youth/MarvinLewis.cfm|url-status=dead|title=The Benevolent & Protective Order of Elks of the USA: Marvin Lewis Awards|archivedate=July 13, 2007}}
• International Fellowship of Scouting Rotarians (IFSR) Cliff Dochterman Award, (Rotary[http://www.ifsr-net.org/dochterman.htm Cliff Dochterman Award] {{webarchive|url=https://web.archive.org/web/20071019024306/http://www.ifsr-net.org/dochterman.htm |date=October 19, 2007}})
• Masonic Daniel Carter Beard Scouter Award, (MasonsDaniel Carter Beard Masonic Scouter Award)
• National Society of the Sons of the American Revolution Robert E. Burt Boy Scout Volunteer Award,{{Cite web |url=http://www.sar.org/forms/handbook/SAR_Handbook_Vol_III.pdf |title=Archived copy |access-date=October 4, 2006 |url-status=dead |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20061004184625/http://www.sar.org/forms/handbook/SAR_Handbook_Vol_III.pdf |archive-date=October 4, 2006}}
• Ruritan National Service Clubs Scout Leader Community Service Award,{{Cite web |url=http://www.ruritan.org/publications/scoutLeaderAward.pdf |title=Archived copy |access-date=July 13, 2007 |url-status=dead |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20070927010409/http://www.ruritan.org/publications/scoutLeaderAward.pdf |archive-date=September 27, 2007}}
• United States Power Squadrons Raymond A. Finley Jr. Sea Scout Service Award,{{Cite web|url=http://www.usps.org/national/membership/youth/pictures/USPS_Finley_Sea_Scout_Service_Award.pdf|title=Microsoft Word – 10-USPS Finley Sea Scout Service Award}}
• VFW Scouter's Achievement Award,{{Cite web|url=http://www.vfw.org/index.cfm?fa=cmty.levelc&cid=1833&tok=1|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20070710210554/http://www.vfw.org/index.cfm?fa=cmty.levelc&cid=1833&tok=1|url-status=dead|title=Veterans of Foreign Wars (VFW) :: Community Service|archivedate=July 10, 2007}}
• United States Military Outstanding Volunteer Service Medal, U.S. DoD{{Cite web |url=http://www.scatacook.org/ArticlesAndFlyers/MOVSM.htm |title=Military Outstanding Volunteer Service Medal |access-date=July 13, 2007 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20070927035649/http://www.scatacook.org/ArticlesAndFlyers/MOVSM.htm |archive-date=September 27, 2007 |url-status=dead}}

;Scouting Service Award

• Whitney Young Service Award

Named after Whitney M Young Jr., and recognizes outstanding services by an adult individual or an organization for demonstrated involvement in the development and implementation of Scouting opportunities for youth from rural or low-income urban backgrounds.

• ¡Scouting ... Vale la pena! Service Award

Recognizes outstanding services by an adult individual or an organization for demonstrated involvement in the development and implementation of Scouting opportunities for Hispanic American/Latino youth.

• Asian American Spirit of Scouting Service Award

Recognizes outstanding services by an adult individual or an organization for demonstrated involvement in the development and implementation of Scouting opportunities for Asian American youth.

• Special Needs Scouting Service Award

Honors an adult (volunteer or professional) for bringing Scouting opportunities to Scouts with special needs.

• American Indian Scouting Association Grey Wolf Award

Honors and adult for bringing Scouting opportunities to American Indian youth.

• James E West Fellowship Award
• 1910 Society
• Ernest Thompson Seton, Daniel Carter Beard, Theodore Roosevelt and Waite Phillips levels
• Founder's Circle
• Bronze, Silver, Gold and Platinum levels
• William D. Boyce New-Unit Organizer Award

{{Main|Square knot insignia}}

Adult leaders display their awards on their uniform through a system of square knots above the left uniform pocket, much as a member of the military would with their ribbons. Although the square knot system was created for adult scouters, there are some square knot awards such as the youth religious emblem which can be granted to scouters below the age of 18.{{cite news| url = https://scoutingmagazine.org/2008/01/know-your-knots| work = Scouting Magazine | date= January 2008 | title = Know Your Boy Scouts Square Knots | first = Bryan | last = Wendell}}

• Spirit of the Eagle Award

• Journey To Excellence (JTE) Award (formerly National Quality Unit Award)
• Veteran Unit Award
• BSA Ready & Prepared Award{{Cite web|url=http://old.scouting.org/awards/10-278/|title=archive.ph|website=archive.ph|access-date=October 16, 2022|archive-date=July 16, 2012|archive-url=https://archive.today/20120716120908/http://old.scouting.org/awards/10-278/|url-status=bot: unknown}}

• American Legion Eagle Scout of the Year Scholarship
• Eastern Orthodox Committee on Scouting scholarships
• Emmett J. Doerr Memorial Scout Scholarship for Catholic Scouts
• National Eagle Scout Association (NESA) scholarships
• Mervyn Sluizer Jr. Scholarship for Philadelphia-area Scouts
• National Jewish Committee on Scouting Eagle Scout Scholarship Programs{{Cite web | url = http://www.jewishscouting.org/awards/eagle.html | title = NJCS Eagle Scout Scholarship Program | access-date = February 10, 2006 |url-status=dead | archive-url = https://web.archive.org/web/20060212173421/http://www.jewishscouting.org/awards/eagle.html | archive-date = February 12, 2006}}
• Sons of the American Revolution (SAR) Arthur M. & Berdena King Eagle Scout Scholarship{{Cite web |url=http://www.sar.org/youth/eagle.html |title=NSSAR – Arthur M. & Berdena King Eagle Scout Scholarship Program |access-date=February 10, 2006 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20060208205502/http://www.sar.org/youth/eagle.html |archive-date=February 8, 2006 |url-status=dead }}
• Veterans of Foreign Wars (VFW) Scout of the Year Scholarship
• William M. Minto Memorial Scholarship For Sea Scouts{{Cite web | url = http://www.seascout.org/reference/opportunities/index.html | title = Sea Scouting: Opportunities and Activities |access-date=February 10, 2006 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20060106134021/http://seascout.org/reference/opportunities/index.html |archive-date=January 6, 2006 |url-status=dead}}
• The E. Urner Goodman Scholarship program has been suspended and is no longer available.

Wood Badge Scholarships for Scouters

• AFL-CIO Wood Badge Scholarship Program
• VFW Wood Badge Scholarship Program
• some American Legion Departments (e.g., North Carolina, Pennsylvania, Illinois, etc.) offer Wood Badge Scholarships

;Aquatics

• Scouting America Boardsailing
• Scouting America Kayaking
• Scouting America Mile Swim
• Scouting America Scuba
• Scouting America Snorkeling
• Scouting America Stand Up Paddleboarding
• Scouting America Whitewater Rafting
• Scouting America Lifeguard
• Long Cruise - Sea Scouts
• Qualified Seaman - Sea Scouts
• Small Boat Handler - Sea Scouts

;Conservation

• The Conservation Good Turn Award for Cub Scout Packs, Scout Troops and Venturing Crews
• Cub Scout World Conservation Award
• Scouts BSA World Conservation Award
• Venturing World Conservation Award
• Outdoor Ethics Awareness Award
• Outdoor Ethics Action Award
• Keep America Beautiful Hometown USA Award - Scouts
• Distinguished Conservation Service Awards
• Distinguished Conservation Service Award – Scouts
• Distinguished Conservationist Award - Adults
• Distinguished Conservation Service Award Certificate - Organizations

;Disabilities

• Torch of Gold Certificate – To recognize youth and adult members who have provided outstanding service in the area of Scouts with special needs
• Woods Services Award – A national-level recognition for volunteer adults who provide outstanding service to Scouts with special needs

;Outdoors

• 50-Miler Award
• Historic Trails Award
• National Medal for Outdoor Achievement
• National Outdoor Challenge Unit Award

;Scoutcraft

• Firem'n Chit
• Paul Bunyan Woodsman
• Totin' Chip
• Whittlin' Chip

;International

• International Spirit Award - Scouts and Scouters
• International Scouter Award - Scouters

;Tenure

• Service stars
• Veteran Scouter Pin

;Other

• Interpreter's Strips (17 languages including ASL and Morse Code)
• Recruiter Strip – all Scouts

;Retired

• International Activity Patch
• Cub Scout Outdoor Activity Award
• Emergency Preparedness Award

• Alpha Phi Omega offers the Scouting Recognition Certificate
• The American Legion offers the Eagle Scout of the Year Award
• The United States Department of Defense offers the Youth Certificate of Recognition

These awards are no longer awarded, but may be worn by those who earned them:

• BSA Physical Fitness Award
• BSA Ready and Prepared Award
• BSA Young American Award{{Cite web | url = http://www.scouting.org/Awards/YoungAmericanAward.aspx | title = Young American Award | publisher = Boy Scouts of America | access-date = March 30, 2006 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20080227101153/http://www.scouting.org/awards/youngamericanaward.aspx |archive-date=February 27, 2008 |url-status=dead}}
• Cub Scout Leave No Trace Awareness Award
• Den Mother's Training Award- awarded from 1956, renamed to Den Leader's Training Award in 1967
• Den Leader Coach Training Award- awarded from 1967 to 2006, replaced by the Pack Trainer Award
• Explorer Silver- awarded from 1949 to 1964
• Explorer Achievement Award- awarded from 1981 to 1995, replaced by the Explorer G.O.L.D. Award
• Explorer G.O.L.D. Award- awarded from 1995 to 1998
• Explorer Ranger Award- awarded from 1944 to 1949
• Explorer Ace Award- awarded from 1942 to 1954
• Heroism Award- a lifesaving award presented to a registered youth member or adult leader who has demonstrated heroism in saving or attempting to save a life at minimum risk to self
• National Camping Award- replaced by the National Outdoor Challenge Unit Award in 2010
• Silver Fawn Award- equivalent of the Silver Beaver Award for female leaders issued from 1971 to 1974
• Tiger Cub Coach Award— renamed to Tiger Cub Den Leader Award
• Varsity Scout Leader's Training Award for the Coach, assistant Coaches, team committee chairman, team committee member
• Varsity Scout Coach's Key
• William H. Spurgeon III Award{{Cite web |title=William H. Spurgeon Award |url=http://www.exploring.org/wp-content/uploads/2016/02/William-H.-Spurgeon-III-Award.pdf |access-date=February 3, 2018 |website=Exploring}} – moved to Exploring (Learning for Life)

{{refbegin}}

• {{Cite book |date=2021 |title=Guide to Advancement 2021 |url=https://filestore.scouting.org/filestore/pdf/33088.pdf |publisher=Boy Scouts of America |isbn=978-0-8395-3088-6 |ref={{sfnref|Guide to Advancement 2021}}}}

{{refend}}

• [http://www.scouting.org/ scouting.org] – The official BSA Website for Scouting in the US.
• [https://web.archive.org/web/20091221023715/http://meritbadge.org/wiki/index.php/Main_Page MeritBadge.Org] – is a Wikipedia that provides resources to Scouts and leaders in the US.
• [http://www.usscouts.org/ USScouts.Org] – another volunteer site that provides resources to Scouts and leaders in the US.

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