The highest rank a Boy Scout can attain is the rank of Eagle Scout, which is only attained by 5% of all Boy Scouts. The concept of rank advancement in scouting helps build self-confidence in scouts as they work as a group toward common goals. In the process, they have fun learning everything from camping to leadership.

The first groups of ranks (Joining, Tenderfoot, Second Class, and First Class) concentrate on individual requirements: knot tying, first aid, flag, hiking, physical fitness, etc. The remaining three ranks (Star, Life, Eagle) concentrate on leadership, helping younger scouts achieve rank advancement, participation in the sccouting program, and merit badges.

Merit Badges are badges (or awards) that you can earn on any of over 100 subjects: first aid, whitewater kayaking, fishing, computers, electricity, cycling, citizenship, and on and on.

Information on Scout Rank Advancement can be found in your Scout Handbook or at the links on this page.