Alternative BSA Rank Requirements Request Guide

1. Before applying for alternative requirements, as many of the existing requirements must be completed as possible.

2. Once the Scout’s best has been done to the limit of the Scout’s abilities and resources, the unit leader or a troop committee member submits to the council advancement committee a written request for alternative requirements for Scout, Tenderfoot, Second Class, or First Class ranks.

a. It must show what has been completed and suggest the alternatives for those requirements the Scout cannot do.

3. The request must be accompanied by:

a. Supporting letter from the unit leader

b. Supporting letter from a parent or guardian, and the Scout (if possible)

c. As well as a written statement from a qualified health professional related to the nature of the disability.

i. The qualified health professional may be, for example, a physician, neurologist, psychiatrist, psychologist, etc., or when appropriate, an educational administrator in special education.

ii. Statements must describe the disability; cover the Scout’s capabilities, limitations, and prognosis; and outline what requirements cannot be completed.

d. Additional information such as Individualized Education Plans provided to parents by schools, and various treatment summaries and reports, may help an advancement committee make an informed decision.

i. Normally, it is expected that youth with only moderate learning disabilities, or such disorders as ADD or ADHD can—albeit more slowly—complete standard requirements.

4. The advancement committee reviews the request, using the expertise of professionals involved with youth who have special needs. To make a fair determination, the committee may want to interview the Scout, the Scout’s parent(s) or guardian(s), and the unit leader. The committee’s decision is then recorded and delivered to the Scout and the unit leader.