The 12 Steps: Life to Eagle
Source: Guide to Advancement 2025
Step 1: Complete All the Requirements (9.0.1.1)
Confirm active participation, Scout spirit, merit badges, position of responsibility, service project, and unit leader conference are done before the 18th birthday.
Step 2: Prepare the Eagle Scout Service Project Workbook (9.0.1.2)
Use the current workbook, available at scouting.org/advancement.
Step 3: Complete the Application (9.0.1.3)
Use only the current, official Eagle Scout Rank Application — no substitutes, no spreadsheets in place of it.
Step 4: Obtain Required Signatures (9.0.1.4)
Unit leader and unit committee chair sign, approving the candidate to move to a board of review.
Step 5: Submit to Council Service Center (9.0.1.5)
Keep copies; deliver the originals to council by their preferred method.
Step 6: Council Verifies Application and Board of Review Scheduled (9.0.1.6)
Council checks everything against Scouting America records before the board can be scheduled.
Step 7: References Contacted (9.0.1.7)
The Scout personally requests four references. If none respond after diligent effort, the board proceeds anyway — it can’t be denied or postponed over unresponsive references.
Step 8: The Eagle Board of Review Is Held (8.0.3.0)
Three to six members, all 21+; at least one district or council rep if held at unit level. Generally 30–45 minutes.
Step 9: Application Returned to Council Service Center (9.0.1.8)
If approved, the signed application and references go back to council.
Step 10: Council Processes the Application (9.0.1.9)
The Scout Executive signs, certifying the process was followed correctly.
Step 11: National Advancement Program Team Returns Credentials (9.0.1.10)
National validates the application; the certificate, card, and letter are mailed to the council.
Step 12: Appealing a Decision, if Needed (8.0.4.0, 8.0.4.1)
If the board doesn’t recommend advancement, only the Scout or parent/guardian may appeal to the local council — council must document the denial within two weeks; the Scout has two months to file.
