Eagle Scout Extension
On February 1, 2019, the Boy Scouts of America will begin admitting girls into Scouts BSA.
One of the characteristics of Scouting—for over a hundred years—is that no matter when you join, however long you stay, or the rank you attain, the Scouting experience prepares you for life. And for some, the pinnacle of their Scouting experience is achieving the highest rank of Eagle Scout.
The policies of the BSA indicate that, except in extraordinary circumstances, a youth desiring to achieve the rank of Eagle must do so before the youth’s 18th birthday. This will continue to be our policy.
It is in the interests of the entire BSA, and in fact our nation, that all girls who join the BSA in 2019 should have an opportunity to earn their Eagle Scout rank should they diligently and promptly complete all requirements.
Accordingly, after carefully considering recommendations from stakeholders, including feedback from volunteers and professionals at the 2018 Top Hands Meeting, the National Executive Committee of the Boy Scouts of America has approved temporary transition rules regarding an Eagle Scout extension for youth over 16 but not yet 18 years of age on February 1, 2019 to complete the requirements for the Eagle Scout award.
To preserve the integrity of the Eagle Scout Award, no exceptions to or waivers of any of the requirements for the Eagle Scout Award are permitted under this limited exception, and all requirements must be completed while the individual is a registered member of Scouts BSA, or after achieving the First Class Rank in Scouts BSA (as specified in the BSA Guide to Advancement).
Since the BSA has determined the minimum period of elapsed time to complete the requirements of the Eagle Scout rank is approximately 19-20 months, the extension is not available to any youth who is under 16 years of age on February 1, 2019 (as they will have adequate time to earn their Eagle before turning 18) nor to any youth who has already turned 18 years of age on February 1, 2019 (as they will be ineligible to join Scouts BSA).
In keeping with established policy, the Eagle Scout Rank is earned when the candidate’s award has been approved by the National Council.
For more information, please read the Implementation Details FAQ.
Eagles Nest