Cub Scout Ranks

Advancement Trails

On the advancement trail, a Cub Scout progresses from rank to rank, learning new skills as they go. Each of the ranks and awards in Cub Scouting has its own requirements. As you advance through the ranks, the requirements get more challenging, to match the new skills and abilities you learn as you get older. Printable guides are provided below, or you may access Scoutbook to review and record your Scout's progress.


Lion

Lion Cub Scouts are generally Kindergarten students. 

The Lion program is designed to be a family-based program. Together, you and your Lion Cub will participate in fun activities while completing advancements.


1. Lion Scout Rank Requirements

Bobcat

No matter what age or grade a child joins Cub Scouting, they must earn their Bobcat badge before they can advance to the rank of Tiger Cub, Wolf, Bear, or Webelos.


Bobcat Requirements

Tiger

The Tiger den is for Scouts in 1st grade who have completed their Bobcat requirements.


2. Tiger Scout Rank Requirements

Wolf

The Wolf rank is for Scouts in 2nd grade.


3. Wolf Scout Rank Requirements

Bear

The Bear rank is for Scouts in 3rd grade. The Bear requirements are harder and more challenging than those for the Wolf badge.


4. Bear Scout Rank Requirements

Webelos

Webelos dens are for Scouts in 4th and 5th grade. The Webelos den program is slightly more challenging than the den programs for younger Scouts, as it is designed to prepare Scouts for the Troop. 


5. Webelos Rank Requirements

Arrow of Light

The highest rank in Cub Scouting is the Arrow of Light Award. Earning this rank prepares a Webelos Scout to join a Troop. Webelos Scouts who have earned the Arrow of Light Award may transfer it to their Troop uniform when they cross over. 

This award is the only Cub Scout badge that can be worn on the Boy Scout uniform when a Scout graduates into a Troop. Adult leaders who earned the Arrow of Light Award when they were young may also show their achievement by wearing a special square knot on their adult uniform.


6. Arrow of Light Rank Requirements