Board of Review

A Scouts BSA board of review is a conversation between a Scout and 3-6 members of the troop committee to determine if the Scout has met the requirements for rank advancement. It’s a chance to discuss the Scout’s experience in the troop, their growth, and how they’re applying the principles of Scouting in their life.

Key aspects of a board of review:

• Purpose: To assess the Scout’s understanding and application of Scouting principles, not to retest them on specific skills.
• Format: The board of review typically involves questions about the Scout’s activities, experiences, and their growth in Scouting.
• Participants: The board consists of adult leaders from the troop committee, not the Scoutmaster.
• Timing: It should happen after the Scoutmaster conference and before the rank advancement is officially granted.
• Duration: The board of review should be a 15-30 minute conversation, according to Boy Scouts of America.
• Decision: The board deliberates in private and must reach a unanimous decision about whether the Scout is ready for advancement.
• No parents: Parents are generally discouraged from attending, as it can affect the Scout’s candor and comfort level.

Benefits of a board of review:

• Encourages Scout growth: It helps Scouts reflect on their progress and develop a deeper understanding of Scouting principles.
• Provides valuable feedback: Scouts have a chance to share their experiences and perspectives with adult leaders, according to a post on Reddit.
• Supports troop program: It helps the troop committee see how the program is operating and how it’s impacting the Scouts.
• Promotes leadership skills: It can be a valuable opportunity for Scouts to practice their communication and leadership skills.

Resources & Links

• Complete guide – including questions per rank
• General questions – great page for GENERAL questions that apply to all ranks
• Guide to Advancement – this is Scouting’s official advancement guide