The seven Scouts BSA ranks are as follows:

Scout

Tenderfoot

Second Class

First Class

Star

Life

Eagle

All ranks are earned in a similar manner. The Scout must first learn, either via another Scout who already knows or by reading their Scout book, working with adult leaders, or researching. After the Scout learns what they must complete for a requirement, they must complete the requirement and demonstrate to someone who is authorized to sign their book. Once the Scout has all requirements signed off, they may request a Scoutmaster Conference*. After completing their Scoutmaster Conference, they may then request a board of review, except for Scout rank as it is not required for this initial rank. This process differs somewhat for Eagle, and will be explained in a later section. After completion of the board of review, the Scout has then earned that rank. A Scoutmaster Conference is not a test; it is simply a discussion about their experiences in Scouting and the troop. During a Board of Review, a Scout may be asked to demonstrate skills, however, Scouts are rarely turned down for advancement.

*Although it is allowed to have a Scoutmaster Conference at any point while a Scout is working on requirements, this is typically done after all requirements have been earned.