Arrow of Light Requirements
For the oldest Cub Scouts, the Arrow of Light program offers 5th grade Webelos the opportunity to earn a patch that transfers to their Scouts BSA uniform. By earning this recognition, a scout demonstrates readiness for the next step on the boy scout trail.
During their last year in a Pack, Webelos get a larger say in which adventures their den will do, and in leading their fellow scouts, both skills that will come in handy in Scouts BSA.
A youth that is new to Scouting in 5th grade does not need to earn any previous ranks. The Bobcat badge and then the Arrow of Light can be earned along with the scout's den, even if the scout does not have the Webelos badge yet. If it's important to the youth, the scout can put in more effort and fulfill the Webelos requirements during 5th grade also, without missing out on the adventures the den is doing for Arrow of Light.
How to Join:
- Go to BeAScout.org
- Click the 'Cub Scouts' tab.
- Enter your zipcode and click the arrow button.
- Click on a Pack near you to see its contact info so you can call the Pack or your local Council about joining.
- Complete a BSA Youth Application and Health Record and give them to the Cubmaster of the Pack you choose.
Arrow of Light Advancement
Webelos Scouts do adventures described in their Webelos handbook that advance them towards their Arrow of Light rank. By completing five adventures, the Arrow of Light is earned.
Arrow of Light Requirements:
- Be active in your Webelos den for at least six months since completing the fourth grade or for at least six months since becoming 10 years old. (Being active means having good attendance, paying your den dues, and working on den projects.)
- Complete each of the four Arrow of Light required adventures:
- In addition to the four required adventures listed above, complete at least one elective adventure of your den's or family's choosing from this list: Adventures in Science, Aquanaut, Art Explosion, Aware and Care, Build It, Build My Own Hero, Castaway, Earth Rocks!, Engineer, Fix It, Game Design, Into the Wild, Into the Woods, Looking Back, Looking Forward, Maestro!, Moviemaking, Project Family, Sports
- With your parent, guardian, or caring adult, complete the exercises in the pamphlet How to Protect Your Children From Child Abuse: A Parent's Guide.
- Earn the Cyber Chip award for your age. (The Cyber Chip portion of this requirement may be waived by your parent or guardian if you do not have access to the internet.)
Webelos Den Leader:
A well-trained Den Leader is critical to the success of a Webelos Den. The Webelos Den Leader makes advancement opportunities available to the scouts and tracks their advancements. The den leader can also recruit other adults to plan and organize individual adventure outings. One of the main roles of the Webelos den leader is to give each scout opportunities to lead and make decisions, both individually and for the den.
Every Webelos Den is required to have a registered den leader whose responsibilities are:
- Work directly with other den and pack leaders to ensure that the den is an active and successful part of the pack.
- Plan, prepare for, and conduct den meetings with the assistant den leader and den chief.
- Plan overnight campouts and other outdoor activities.
- Attend pack leaders' meetings.
- Lead the den at pack meetings and activities.
- Help the den earn the National Den Award.
- Work with local scoutmasters to ensure the transition of Webelos scouts to Scouts BSA.
There are many resources available to help the den leader plan and run a successful, interesting program for the scouts. The Webelos Den Leader Guide is the most important one. It has complete den meeting plans for each adventure and many ideas for activities that promote the purposes of Cub Scouting. Using this guide minimizes the time needed to plan worthwhile den events.
Tip: The Cub Scout motto of Do Your Best should still be a key part of the Webelos program. There is no level of competence or skill required to complete adventures. Putting in personal effort and having fun with fellow scouts is success.
Tip: Many available Awards are never earned by Webelos. Learn about additional awards offered to your scouts such as the World Conservation Award and Outdoor Ethics Award and try to work them into your schedule, especially for scouts that are completing the adventures quickly.
More Arrow of Light Information to Use:
Arrow of Light Core Adventures -
Do four for the Arrow of Light
Arrow of Light Elective Adventures -
Do one for the Arrow of Light
Activities - great den meeting ideas
Awards - see what awards are available to Webelos scouts
Ceremonies - a few ceremonies
Games - den or pack games just right for 4th and 5th graders
Graces - fun meal graces
Jokes - funny, gross, and silly jokes for scouts
Projects - community or conservation projects for your Webelos den
Recipes - tasty food recipes for fun snacks at campfires or on overnights
Skits - skits that Webelos Scouts like to do
Songs - songs for scouts
Stories - choose stories that Webelos scouts will enjoy and understand
Uniform - make sure you put all those badges and patches in the right spots
Tests - online tests for Webelos Scouts to test their knowledge
Remember there is no such thing as a Webelo Scout. Whether there is one or a hundred, they are always called Webelos with the 's'.
Comments:
May 08, 2015 - John
May 08, 2015 - Scouter Paul
@John - There is nothing in the new program that would prevent him
from participating in the Arrow of Light program again. He would
not wear two AoL patches on his uniform, just like any other
multiply-earned award.
That scout is ready to join a Boy Scout troop, and I'm curious
what he would have done during 5th grade under the current
program. I'd think it makes more sense to continue on with that
original plan since he has completed Cub Scouting.
May 08, 2015 - Scouter Joe
@John that is quite the situation. I'm curious as to the unit set up. He would have some options, staying in Cub Scouts and do the new program, and earn the AOL over again OR what I think is the better option and move him on to a Boy Scout troop as Paul suggests.
The new program, although vibrant, may be redundant for him. It's true the new program is asking more of the Scout but he will basically doing what the Scouts are doing any way but on a lesser level.
May 08, 2015 - John
May 18, 2015 - Brian
Seeking clarification as I have seen different resources
state what rank a scout should have earned in Boy
Scouts having completed Arrow of Light. Some state
Boy Scout, some Tenderfoot!
May 18, 2015 - Scouter Paul
@Brian - A Webelos scout has earned no Boy Scout rank just by
completing the Arrow of Light requirements. After completing all
the AoL adventures, a Webelos scout will have done the 'skills'
for the Scout rank, but he will have done those as a Cub Scout.
It should be no problem for the scout to demonstrate them all to
his new Scoutmaster, and a good Scoutmaster would want that time
to get to know the new scout.
Jun 10, 2015 - Robert
When can the boys start working on the Arrow of Light requirements? Immediately after they earned their Webelos badge? For instance, my Webelos 1 den will have completed their Webelos badge by the Blue and Gold abnquet. Can we then start the AOL requirements or do we have to wait until the June 1st start of our scout year?
Jul 22, 2015 - Joe
@Robert - There is nothing in the transition material, the new
Webelos handbook, or the new leader guide, which prevents a
Webelos scout from earning any of the pins at any time. So your
den can still earn AoL required pins BEFORE Webelos required
pins if you so choose.
The only change is that scouts joining in 5th grade do not have to complete the Webelos required pins or the extra two electives, but they still CAN if they want to, provided they have the opportunity (for instance, by working with the 4th grade Webelos den).
The only change is that scouts joining in 5th grade do not have to complete the Webelos required pins or the extra two electives, but they still CAN if they want to, provided they have the opportunity (for instance, by working with the 4th grade Webelos den).
Aug 15, 2015 - Brian L
I am a weblos leader in an LDS pack and my son is one of my
kids. in reading some of the posts above I believe I have
gleaned some information as to my question but I want to confirm
because I dont want to set an incorrect precidence
My Son's B- day is March 19 .. at our pack meeting for august I expect him to earn his weblos badge, and that will leave him 1 section from completing his Arrow of Light - which he should have completed by september. I wanted to confirm if the time involved in the weblos and the Arrow of light (3 and 6 Months respectively) can overlap .. or if the minimum time involved is 9 months for both ... I asked this at a round table on thursday and there seemed to be some confusion
My Son's B- day is March 19 .. at our pack meeting for august I expect him to earn his weblos badge, and that will leave him 1 section from completing his Arrow of Light - which he should have completed by september. I wanted to confirm if the time involved in the weblos and the Arrow of light (3 and 6 Months respectively) can overlap .. or if the minimum time involved is 9 months for both ... I asked this at a round table on thursday and there seemed to be some confusion
Aug 15, 2015 - Scouter Joe
@Brian L The time cannot overlap and you are correct in saying that the minimum time that they can earn both the Webelos Rank and AOL is 9 months (3 months for Webelos and 6 months for Arrow of Light).
Aug 15, 2015 - Scouter Paul
@Brian - Scouter Joe's explanation of the 3 months and 6 months
being consecutive is not how many other Packs have interpreted
the requirement. There is no specification in the requirement
wording that says the 3-month Webelos time needs to be completed
before the 6-month AoL time begins. A new scout entering 5th
grade right now could join a Webelos den and complete both
Webelos and AoL by the end of February.
Since you are in an LDS Pack, your den age divisions may impact how this works.
It would be interesting to hear what other councils do, too.
Since you are in an LDS Pack, your den age divisions may impact how this works.
It would be interesting to hear what other councils do, too.
Aug 17, 2015 - Scouter Joe
Response that I received from National on the subject:
Tenure is cumulative - 3 months while working on Webelos, 6 months while working on AOL. In cases where boys work across required adventures, the total tenure required is still 9 months.
Tenure is cumulative - 3 months while working on Webelos, 6 months while working on AOL. In cases where boys work across required adventures, the total tenure required is still 9 months.
Aug 18, 2015 - Brian L
thanks for the research - My suggestion is to make that an FAQ or
an alert to all scout packs nationwide ... because as we have seen
here (and I have seen localy) there is a lot of confusion on the
fact
Aug 30, 2015 - Sunita
I have a Webelos 2 den that decided to continue with the old requirements in the old book for their 5th grade. We have 2 new 5th grade boys joining our den. Can they start and work in the old requirements with the den?
Aug 31, 2015 - Scouter Joe
@Sunita see the program transition information on scouting.org/programupdates
Boys who are new to Scouting (after June 1) need to use the new advancement program.
There are opportunities to be efficient: for this year, boys working on AOL with the old program may use some of the new adventures as electives; the new boys may earn them as well, so there is no need for parallel programming in those cases.
Boys who are new to Scouting (after June 1) need to use the new advancement program.
There are opportunities to be efficient: for this year, boys working on AOL with the old program may use some of the new adventures as electives; the new boys may earn them as well, so there is no need for parallel programming in those cases.
Sep 13, 2015 - Andrew
Can the Webelos required adventures be used as an
AOL elective?
Specifically, I would like my new AOL's to take First Responder, because otherwise they wouldn't cover first aid stuff.
Specifically, I would like my new AOL's to take First Responder, because otherwise they wouldn't cover first aid stuff.
Sep 14, 2015 - Scouter Joe
@Andrew This year yes they could, though in the future (after next May) it would not be.
First Responder is really close to Readyman, so if they have already have earned that activity badge then it would be pretty easy for them.
First Responder is really close to Readyman, so if they have already have earned that activity badge then it would be pretty easy for them.
Sep 15, 2015 - Andrew
These are new AOL scouts who did not do Readyman,
because they just joined.
I am so glad that AOL is a separate rank now, because I've had several fifth graders come and leave because of having to do both ranks.
I am so glad that AOL is a separate rank now, because I've had several fifth graders come and leave because of having to do both ranks.
Oct 02, 2015 - Noel
I have 5 boys who are finishin up the old webelos requirements.
They will finish in February and cross over to Boy scout. During
our recruitment, we had a 5th grader joining us. How can I help
this kid. If he will be the only one doing the new requirements?
Just the 6 months requirements will be March. The rest of the boys
are graduating in February. So he will be the only one graduating
in March, right?
Oct 04, 2015 - Scouter Paul
@Noel - See bottom of page 11 on Program Updates PDF - it will require
individual coaching and individual efforts supervised by his
parent.
Many of the old Arrow of Light requirements are in the
new Arrow of Light adventures, especially the Scouting
adventure. As den leader, you can plan some activities that
will fulfill both old and new requirements.
Yes, he must be in
the Webelos den for 6 months in order to receive the Arrow of
Light rank.
Oct 19, 2015 - SgtFitz
Hi so I am a new Cub Master with a pack
that has 1 returning boy from last year
who is a wolf. I am working with all new
boys and none of them have been in Scouts
before. I have 5 5th graders do I start
them at webelos requirements or AOL
requirements?
Oct 22, 2015 - Scouter Joe
@SgtFitz Hello and congrats on entering Cub Scouting! You would have them all of course on the new program and with that you would have them start the AOL requirements.
With the new program they would not need to earn their Webelos rank to earn their AOL, just their Bobcat rank if they are new.
With the new program they would not need to earn their Webelos rank to earn their AOL, just their Bobcat rank if they are new.
Nov 02, 2015 - Gordon
The new 2nd yr program is called Arrow of light, but are the
scouts being called arrow of lightmen as some have told me? I
can't find that in writing anywhere.
Nov 02, 2015 - Scouter Paul
@Gordon - You won't find it in writing because they are still
called Webelos. You might let those other folks know they are
incorrect.
Nov 03, 2015 - Scouter Joe
@Gordon There was some talk along those lines at Philmont last year but the staff has since recanted, that's where they are getting it from.
Our Pack calls them Arrows, those they are still technically Webelos.
Our Pack calls them Arrows, those they are still technically Webelos.
Nov 15, 2015 - Kristy
I have 2 boys in my pack that are both in 5th grade. One 10 and one 11. They have both earned the Webelos Badge and AOL under the old program and are getting bored with the new program this year, acting up and parents are causing a lot of unwanted drama in our Pack. Is there any rules or regulations on when they should crossing over once they have received their AOL? I cant find anything solid that isn't confusing.
Nov 16, 2015 - Scouter Joe
@Kristy - They can move up to Boy Scouts when the boys have earned the Arrow of Light rank and are at least 10 years old OR have completed the fifth grade and are at least 10, or who are 11, but not yet 18 years old.
So it sounds like they are eligible to move up to Boy Scouts, especially if they are causing behavior problems.
Award them their AOL at the next Pack Meeting and move them on
So it sounds like they are eligible to move up to Boy Scouts, especially if they are causing behavior problems.
Award them their AOL at the next Pack Meeting and move them on
Dec 15, 2015 - John Thompson
I am a Unit Com for a pack. One boy is still in the 4th grade.
His parents have assisted him as a Webelos II. Let's assume he
has done all of the requirements for Arrow of Light, but he has
not been active with the Webelos II Den [maybe attended 3 times
since it started meetings last fall], He will be 10 + 6 months
on 3/17/2016. The Pack is having a cross over ceremony on
1/15/2016.
1] Can he participate in the cross over ceremony to the troop on 1/15/2016? or does he have to wait until he is 10 & 1/2 years old? [Assuming he has his AOL]
2] Can he do the crossover 6 months after receiving his AOL, if he has not yet earned it?
3] If he has been as inactive as he apparently has, Can his work [totally with his parents] to earn is Webelos Award [and possibly his AOL] be acceptable to the BSA even though he has had little participation with the Webelos Den?
4 Can he do the crossover with other Webelos II Scouts who are in the 5th grade on 1/15/2016, but then just not participate in troop activities until he is 10 1/2 years old on 3/17/2016?
1] Can he participate in the cross over ceremony to the troop on 1/15/2016? or does he have to wait until he is 10 & 1/2 years old? [Assuming he has his AOL]
2] Can he do the crossover 6 months after receiving his AOL, if he has not yet earned it?
3] If he has been as inactive as he apparently has, Can his work [totally with his parents] to earn is Webelos Award [and possibly his AOL] be acceptable to the BSA even though he has had little participation with the Webelos Den?
4 Can he do the crossover with other Webelos II Scouts who are in the 5th grade on 1/15/2016, but then just not participate in troop activities until he is 10 1/2 years old on 3/17/2016?
Dec 16, 2015 - Scouter Paul
@John -
Boy Scout age requirement is: completed the fifth grade and is at least 10 years old, or is age 11, or has earned the
Arrow of Light Award and is at least 10 years old.
1] A boy that has earned the AOL and is at least 10 can join a Boy Scout troop.
2] He would not have received his AOL if he had not earned it.
3] I don't know how a scout could complete the Scouting Adventure requirement #3, nor the Camper Adventure requirements #4 and #5 without his Webelos den.
4] This boy has to wait until he is 11 years old, or earns AOL, or completes 5th grade to join a troop.
Boy Scout age requirement is: completed the fifth grade and is at least 10 years old, or is age 11, or has earned the
Arrow of Light Award and is at least 10 years old.
1] A boy that has earned the AOL and is at least 10 can join a Boy Scout troop.
2] He would not have received his AOL if he had not earned it.
3] I don't know how a scout could complete the Scouting Adventure requirement #3, nor the Camper Adventure requirements #4 and #5 without his Webelos den.
4] This boy has to wait until he is 11 years old, or earns AOL, or completes 5th grade to join a troop.
Jan 18, 2016 - Fred
The Webelos requirement includes 3 months active and the AOL requires 6 months. Under
LDS program does both together in 12 months. This means a given scout must be active 9 of
the 12 months...? Or would it be that the 3 months counts within the 6 months such that the
scout would only need to be active for at least 6 months of the year? I ask because we have
someone who missed about 5 months time during the fall. If he needs 9 months active, that
means he can either get the AOL or the Webelos badge but not both. Just want to confirm.
Thanks much!
Jan 30, 2016 - Scouter Paul
@Fred - The tenure requirement for AoL does not specify that the 6
months need to happen after the 3 months for Webelos. So, the
common interpretation I've received is a minimum of 6 months
tenure, and that is 6 months since turning 10 or since completing
4th grade. A 5th grader or 10 year old could do both Webelos and
AoL in 6 months.
Feb 06, 2016 - Dennis
Can the Arrow of Light award be earned before the Webelos?
Feb 06, 2016 - Scouter Paul
@Dennis - There is no AoL requirement that the Webelos rank needs to be earned first. A scout could earn just the AoL, or earn it before the Webelos rank. But, see FAQ page where it explains the Webelos rank should be earned before AoL. The "just AoL" option is intended for boys just joining scouts after 4th grade so they have an incentive.
Feb 06, 2016 - Dennis
@Scouter Paul
Thank you for the quick response!
Thank you for the quick response!
Feb 08, 2016 - Dell from Michigan
Feb 09, 2016 - Scouter Joe
@Dell & Scouter Paul - This was an interesting debate among the
Cub Scout leaders that went to and presented at Philmont before
the transition.
At Philmont this was brought up, and yes technically a boy could earn his AOL before his Webelos rank. HOWEVER, he should not be awarded the rank before Webelos.
This IS meant specifically for boys entering Cub Scouts in the 5th grade or 2nd year of Webelos in a traditional unit. There will be those who want to push the rules, so the above rule is meant to encourage scouts to earn both.
At Philmont this was brought up, and yes technically a boy could earn his AOL before his Webelos rank. HOWEVER, he should not be awarded the rank before Webelos.
This IS meant specifically for boys entering Cub Scouts in the 5th grade or 2nd year of Webelos in a traditional unit. There will be those who want to push the rules, so the above rule is meant to encourage scouts to earn both.
Feb 10, 2016 - Kris
On the new 2016 program for Webelos, can the 2 electives required
for this badge also be used for AoL? Or do the boys need 3
different electives for the AoL?
Feb 11, 2016 - Scouter Paul
@Kris - No, see FAQ page.
Feb 12, 2016 - Sharon Dustin
In an LDS unit can boys receive the AOL as an 11 year old scout?
Mar 04, 2016 - Scouter Joe
@Sharon No they can not. 11 year old Scouts in LDS units have
already moved on to Boy Scouts and can no longer earn Cub
Scout awards.
May 20, 2016 - CM Steve
Hello - I am a new CM this year and I have a Webelos rank question. We have 3-4 boys who are close, but have not yet completed the Webelos rank requirements after their first Webelos year. Given the length of the Webelos program compared to the younger ranks, can they still earn (and receive) their rank after June 1, or do they "advance" and only work on AoL adventures?
May 20, 2016 - Scouter Paul
@Steve - A new boy can join your Pack in 5th grade and still earn
the Webelos rank and AoL. A scout in a Webelos den can take 4th
and 5th grade to earn his Webelos rank.
Jul 31, 2016 - Christa Campbell
I have a question:
My boys just returned from AOL camp and they had a new requirement that I do not see listed on my Webelos Trax no have I heard of it. It is called Shooting Sports. Would you know about it and if it is truly a new requirement I can count towards their AOL rank?
Thank you!
Christa
My boys just returned from AOL camp and they had a new requirement that I do not see listed on my Webelos Trax no have I heard of it. It is called Shooting Sports. Would you know about it and if it is truly a new requirement I can count towards their AOL rank?
Thank you!
Christa
Jul 31, 2016 - Scouter Paul
@Christa - Sounds like you are referring to Shooting Sports award. It is not an Arrow of Light requirement. It is a separate award.
Sep 07, 2016 - Kevin
I have a boy that just joined. He is in
the forth grade. He was held back one
year so he should be in 5th grade. He's
just made 10. Can he be a webelo 11 and
finish the aol requirements and become a
boy scout when he's 10.5?
Sep 07, 2016 - Scouter Paul
@Kevin - I'm not sure what you are asking, but a boy can be EITHER
in a Cub Scout Pack OR a Boy Scout Troop - not both.
Read the BSA Youth Application to find out that a boy can join a troop when he is at least 10 years old and has either completed 5th grade or has earned the Arrow of Light Award, or when he turns 11 years old regardless of any past scouting experience.
Read the BSA Youth Application to find out that a boy can join a troop when he is at least 10 years old and has either completed 5th grade or has earned the Arrow of Light Award, or when he turns 11 years old regardless of any past scouting experience.
Sep 07, 2016 - Prin
LDS Pack Question: Our cubmaster said that "Traditionally in the
church we award the AOL as part of the crossover ceremony",
referring to crossing over to 11-yr-old scouts. One Webelo has
already achieved his Webelos rank, and now has completed his AOL
right at his 6 months. Should he be held back from being awarded
his AOL until he is 11? in 6 more months?
Sep 07, 2016 - Prin
remember, we do 2 years of webelos and arrow of light in only one
year....age 10 to 11 only, birthday to birthday
Sep 07, 2016 - Scouter Paul
@Prin - Since the scout is in an LDS unit, it makes sense to
follow the schedule that LDS uses. In regular BSA units,
immediate recognition is preferred.
Sep 11, 2016 - Kevin
OK he is 10 in the 4th grade. And just
joined. Does he have to complete all of
webelos or just aol.
Sep 11, 2016 - Scouter Paul
@Kevin - All Cub Scouts, except for those boys who join Cub
Scouting for the first time in fifth grade, must earn their
Webelos rank prior to earning Arrow of Light. The requirements for
Webelos and Arrow of Light may be worked on at the same time but
the tenure requirements for each must be met and the awards must
be earned and presented sequentially.
Sep 30, 2016 - Lisa
Question:
I have a Arrow of Light scout who is 5th grade, 10 years old, just joined our pack, first meeting Sep 22. Our Blue and Gold is Feb 25. That is only 5 months away. The requirement states 6 months active to receive AOL. Is the 6 months requirement a guideline? Can this scout receive his AOL by Feb 25 if all other requirements are met? Just need to be clear to explain to parents- thanks
I have a Arrow of Light scout who is 5th grade, 10 years old, just joined our pack, first meeting Sep 22. Our Blue and Gold is Feb 25. That is only 5 months away. The requirement states 6 months active to receive AOL. Is the 6 months requirement a guideline? Can this scout receive his AOL by Feb 25 if all other requirements are met? Just need to be clear to explain to parents- thanks
Sep 30, 2016 - Scouter Paul
@Lisa - 6 months is a requirement. If the date of his youth
application is Sept. 22, then he completes that requirement on
March 22. If he joined prior to August 25, then his 6 months
would complete by Feb. 25. If he was in a Webelos den in some
other pack before coming to yours, time in that den after he
completed 4th grade would count towards the 6 months.
His AOL could be presented to him at the next pack meeting after he completes 6 months.
His AOL could be presented to him at the next pack meeting after he completes 6 months.
Nov 16, 2016 - James
I have a question in regards to the age requirement. My son will complete all the requirements for his AOL with the exception of #1 - he will be one month shy of 6 months participation after turning 10 before his pack holds their annual Blue/Gold ceremony where the AOL scouts will have the opportunity to cross-over to Boy Scouts.....is there anyway this requirement can be altered so he can cross-over with the rest of his peers?
He'll turn 10 in December and the pack Blue/Gold is scheduled for May...
Thanks, James
He'll turn 10 in December and the pack Blue/Gold is scheduled for May...
Thanks, James
Nov 16, 2016 - Scouter Paul
@James - 6 months is a requirement. It should not be
shortened.
He can earn the AoL a month later and join the troop then.
He can earn the AoL a month later and join the troop then.
Mar 23, 2017 - Thad
My son turns 11 on April 2nd. He has most things done for AOL, but still has some requirements that will not be done. Is he done with Weblos on his birthday or at the end of the school year, When he finishes 5th grade. LDS pack. Thank you.
Mar 23, 2017 - Scouter Paul
@Thad - According to lds.org a boy enters the Boy Scout program
when he turns 11 years old.
May 22, 2017 - Vikki Webster
I was made to understand that the boy did not have to earn his
webelos badge in order to get the arrow of light award. That
confuses me because there are only 5 requirements for arrow of
light and 6 for the webelos. If the Arrow of Light is supposed
to be a prime award for the scout, shouldn't it be more
difficult? I am in an LDS pack so the boys only participate for
one year. We are planning a big ceremony for the boys who have
earned their arrow of light. Doesn't seem as "special" an
acheivement with only 5 requirements.
May 22, 2017 - Scouter Paul
@Vikki - That is a correct statement that AoL can be earned
without earning Webelos rank.
When the new program was introduced in 2015, both Webelos and AoL took 7 adventures, but in December, 2016, Webelos was reduced to 6 adventures and AoL was reduced to 5.
When the new program was introduced in 2015, both Webelos and AoL took 7 adventures, but in December, 2016, Webelos was reduced to 6 adventures and AoL was reduced to 5.
Sep 16, 2017 - Brian L
Can someone who is in Boy Scouts Still Earn their Arrow of Light
this is about an LDS Unit where the Weblos program is only 1 year
or are they disallowed from completing the award upon Turning 11
this is about an LDS Unit where the Weblos program is only 1 year
or are they disallowed from completing the award upon Turning 11
Oct 11, 2017 - Lori Kaumans
My husband and I are new Webelos leaders and we know absolutely nothing about cub
scouts. Your blog is very helpful. I noticed above it says: "A boy that is new to Scouting in
5th grade does not need to earn any previous ranks. He can earn the Bobcat badge and then
the Arrow of Light along with his den, even if he does not have the Webelos badge yet. If it's
important to him, he can put in more effort and fulfill the Webelos requirements during 5th
grade also, without missing out on the adventures his den is doing for Arrow of Light."
My question is this: if a boy has been in cubs since he was 8 but has not earned his Bear or Wolf, can he still earn the Arrow of Light? Thanks for any insight you can give on this.
My question is this: if a boy has been in cubs since he was 8 but has not earned his Bear or Wolf, can he still earn the Arrow of Light? Thanks for any insight you can give on this.
Oct 11, 2017 - Scouter Paul
@Brian - No, a Boy Scout can't go backwards and earn any Cub Scout
recognition.
@Lori - Yes, ranks in Cub Scouts are age-based, not based on earning any previous ranks. In Boy Scouts, each rank can only be earned after earning the previous rank.
@Lori - Yes, ranks in Cub Scouts are age-based, not based on earning any previous ranks. In Boy Scouts, each rank can only be earned after earning the previous rank.
Oct 18, 2017 - Shari Shirley
I am wondering if anyone has the AOL emblem in vector format so
that I can get it engraved on my grandsons canteen for the
ceremony. If this is not the correct place to ask of this,
could you please direct/advise me where to obtain? it is truly
appreciated!!
Nov 17, 2017 - Justin
My son's pack only does advancement once a year(grrrr) He will be
10 next week, and is in the 4th grade. He has completed his
webelos rank(a month ago) but I'm doubtful it will be entered in
the council/national database until May, he will most likely earn
the requisites for his AoL before the year is out as well, so the
question is when does his 6 mos. as a Webelos for AoL clock start?
Nov 18, 2017 - Jane
@Justin - The Arrow of Light tenure requirement says: "Be active in your Webelos den for at least six months since completing the fourth grade OR for at least six months since becoming 10 years old." [emphasis added]
The clock will start for your son on his 10th birthday.
The clock will start for your son on his 10th birthday.
Feb 02, 2018 - Suzanne
Can a 10 year old boy in 4th grade complete AOL during 4th grade and then go into boy scouts in 5th grade?
Specifically in time to attend summer camp with his brothers.
Specifically in time to attend summer camp with his brothers.
Feb 02, 2018 - Scouter Paul
@Suzanne - Usually, scouts move from a Pack to a Troop in the
spring of their 5th grade in school.
If the scout completes the AoL requirements and meets the Boy Scout joining requirements, then he can join the troop, and camp with them.
Meeting the following two requirements would be a challenge, besides pushing through the Webelos and AoL adventures all in 4th grade:
AoL #1: Be active in your Webelos den for at least six months since completing the fourth grade or for at least six months since becoming 10 years old.
Joining: A 10 year old can join a troop if he has either completed the fifth grade or earned the Arrow of Light.
To complete AoL #1, he must have turned 10 before December 1 of his 4th grade year in order to be active for 6 months as a 10 year old Webelos by June 1.
That would also satisfy the 2nd part of the Joining requirement: "earned AoL and is at least 10"
So, the requirements really set the minimum age to join a troop for a Webelos scout that earned the AoL as 10.5 years.
If the scout completes the AoL requirements and meets the Boy Scout joining requirements, then he can join the troop, and camp with them.
Meeting the following two requirements would be a challenge, besides pushing through the Webelos and AoL adventures all in 4th grade:
AoL #1: Be active in your Webelos den for at least six months since completing the fourth grade or for at least six months since becoming 10 years old.
Joining: A 10 year old can join a troop if he has either completed the fifth grade or earned the Arrow of Light.
To complete AoL #1, he must have turned 10 before December 1 of his 4th grade year in order to be active for 6 months as a 10 year old Webelos by June 1.
That would also satisfy the 2nd part of the Joining requirement: "earned AoL and is at least 10"
So, the requirements really set the minimum age to join a troop for a Webelos scout that earned the AoL as 10.5 years.
Feb 12, 2018 - Sara
Hi. I'm in an LDS pack with my webelos.
I was told by another LDS webelos pack
leader that after the boys turn 11 they
still have a 30 day 'leeway' or 'grace
period' to wrap up their AOL. I cannot
info to back this up anywhere. What is
your opinion on this?
Apr 19, 2018 - Steve
Does anybody (BSA HQ was a big "Duh"! know what percent of
Cub Scouts earn their Arrow of Light? They can tell be about
Boy Scouts and Eagle Scouts. Doesn't anybody keep track of
Cub Scouts that way? It seems to me that since it merits an
adult knot it should merit some form of statistics keeping.
Apr 23, 2018 - David Willis
@Steve, it used to mean something when it was an actual award that
you earned as a result of two years in the WEBELOS program. Our
Pack used to pitch it as the Eagle of Cub Scouting, encouraging
the boys to strive hard to get it. Now that it is a rank that
anyone can earn in one year with scaled back requirements, it has
lost its significance.
Aug 27, 2018 - Jonathon
I’m a little confused with the age and grade requirements. I have a
child joined in fourth grade while he was 9 and turned 10 within the
webelos 1 group and earned his patch. The new year started this
August will he be able to earn his AOL by his 11th birthday which
is end of December. Because that would be only 5 months until 11
even though he was a webelos 1 for a whole year prior? And will
he have to leave his friends that are in 5th grade and not 11 to go
to Boy Scouts?
Aug 27, 2018 - Jane
@Jonathon - Your son has the option to join Boy Scouts when he:
1) Is at least 11 years old (but not yet 18 years old) OR
2) Has completed the 5th grade OR
3) Has earned the Arrow of Light Award and is at least 10 years old (but is not yet 18 years old).
If he is currently in the 5th grade and turns 11 years old in December, then he can stay with his friends in Webelos (assuming that they are all in the 5th grade). Most Webelos cross over from Cub Scouts into Boy Scouts around January - March, but different packs might do things differently.
1) Is at least 11 years old (but not yet 18 years old) OR
2) Has completed the 5th grade OR
3) Has earned the Arrow of Light Award and is at least 10 years old (but is not yet 18 years old).
If he is currently in the 5th grade and turns 11 years old in December, then he can stay with his friends in Webelos (assuming that they are all in the 5th grade). Most Webelos cross over from Cub Scouts into Boy Scouts around January - March, but different packs might do things differently.
Sep 11, 2018 - Heidi Cole
Scouter Paul stated that a boy has to be 10.5 to join Boy scouts
as AOL. I thought they only had to be 10. My sons birthday is
in December. He is 8 at the beginning of 4th grade, and will be
9 at the beginning of 5th grade. Assuming that he compleats
Webelos by the end of 4th grade (his school ends near the end of
may). His 6 months would start in June, and end in october. He
will still be 9 in october, so he could join boy scouts the day
he turns 10 in December assuming that he compleats AOL by then,
or does he have to wait till he finished 5th grade 10 yrs 5
months, or is 10.5 June. I thought he would be good to go at
10.
Sep 11, 2018 - Scouter Paul
@Heidi - The Youth Application states children can join a troop
"if they have completed the fifth grade and are at least 10 years
old, OR have earned the Arrow of Light Award and are at least 10
years old". If your son earns his AoL, he can join a troop on his
10th birthday.
My comment was that the AoL age and tenure requirements ensure that nearly all children will be at least 10.5 years old before joining a troop.
My comment was that the AoL age and tenure requirements ensure that nearly all children will be at least 10.5 years old before joining a troop.
Feb 12, 2019 - Rick
I have an AOL who is a little behind requirements. I don't see anything about having to be completed and crossed over to any troop prior to the end of the school year (May). Traditionally we've done crossover in Feb., but what's to say this boy can't finish all AOL in April or so? I've not seen anything thing to say AOL must be done by this date and crossover.Our pack wants all advancements and ranks earned by April as a rule. Any help is appreciated.
Feb 12, 2019 - Clark
Great question, find myself in a similar situation. Looking at
the scouting.org, it says"Scouts BSA is for youth 11 to 17 years
of age. Scouts also may join Scouts BSA if they have earned the
Cub Scouting Arrow of Light Award and are at least 10 years old
or have completed the fifth grade and are at least 10 years
old."
So, the Webelos could still complete it so long as he did not cross over into Boy Scouts (aka no longer a Webelos) and not yet 11. Question is if there is still a den and a den leader if everyone else crossed over? Who is he aligned with within his Pack?
So, the Webelos could still complete it so long as he did not cross over into Boy Scouts (aka no longer a Webelos) and not yet 11. Question is if there is still a den and a den leader if everyone else crossed over? Who is he aligned with within his Pack?
Feb 12, 2019 - Rick
He just turned 11 and is about %50 complete for AOL. Not sure if he'll make crossover in a month. There will not be a den or leader once the AOL den crosses over. I am the Cub Master, so I'll do what I can for him. He's been involved for years and in so close, I don't want to see him miss out. I'd rather he earn it late versus miss it due to a arbitrary crossover date.
Feb 12, 2019 - Jane
@Rick - If the Scout (and his parents) want to stay with the pack and earn the AOL rank, he can do so. Generally speaking, Cub Scouts (in non-LDS packs) have until the end of the school year to earn their rank. Section 4.1.0.4 “Do Your Best” of the BSA Guide to Advancement says that the pack committee has the option to grant some limited time extensions to Cub Scouts:
www.scouting.org/resources/guide-to-advancement/mechanics-of-advancement/cub-scouting/
While it is a goal for Webelos Scouts in the 5th grade to earn AOL and crossover to a troop in the January-March time period, this is not an absolute requirement. If they have not earned AOL rank yet, they can stay in the pack and keep working towards it until the end of the school year, if this is what they choose.
As Clark says, it is important that the Scout does not register with a troop, because once he joins a troop, he cannot go back and work on Cub Scout ranks and awards.
As for the den, does your pack have a Webelos Den for 4th graders? If so, I would put him with them to finish up. If not, you can be his acting Den Leader and his den would just have him as its one member.
Talk to the Scout and his parents and find out what they want to do.
www.scouting.org/resources/guide-to-advancement/mechanics-of-advancement/cub-scouting/
While it is a goal for Webelos Scouts in the 5th grade to earn AOL and crossover to a troop in the January-March time period, this is not an absolute requirement. If they have not earned AOL rank yet, they can stay in the pack and keep working towards it until the end of the school year, if this is what they choose.
As Clark says, it is important that the Scout does not register with a troop, because once he joins a troop, he cannot go back and work on Cub Scout ranks and awards.
As for the den, does your pack have a Webelos Den for 4th graders? If so, I would put him with them to finish up. If not, you can be his acting Den Leader and his den would just have him as its one member.
Talk to the Scout and his parents and find out what they want to do.
Feb 13, 2019 - Rick
Thank you. This is valuable information. We have a Webelos for 4th graders, my son is in it, so we could add him. I'll discuss with the Den leader, parents and scout as to what they think they'd like to do. Again, he's been involved for years and is so close not to earn it. They'll have to know the end of the school is us the latest we can do. As with the all the other scouts, that's the end of the year. Thanks again.
Mar 14, 2019 - Rachel Clements
We have been working on our Webelos
requirements and have some time to earn
an extra elective badge this year (4th
grade year). However, we are worried
about having enough time as AOLs to get
everything done. If we complete an
elective this year, can we count it
towtads our AOL year? How do we mark
that in Scoutbook so that it will show
for their AOL rankings?
Mar 14, 2019 - Scouter Paul
@Rachel - Yes, a scout could even do ALL the elective adventures
during their 4th grade year and then count any one of them towards
the AoL requirement in 5th grade (except the one that was used for
Webelos rank).
Mar 26, 2019 - Rick Carrillo
Hello, Does anyone know how to meet requirements for scouts who cannot attend camping overnighters? I have a couple of scouts in my pack that, due to circumstances are not able to do campouts. If I'm not mistaken, some requirements say "camping" whereas, other say "or an activity". One has medical issues that won't allow that. What and how can I modify requirements so they get rank? Any help appreciated.
Thanks
Thanks
Mar 26, 2019 - Scouter Paul
@Rick - You don't modify a requirement. You have the scout
complete the other requirement that does not demand camping. A
cub scout can earn all ranks without any overnight camping.
Mar 26, 2019 - Jane
@Rick Carrillo - Look at the requirements for the Outdoor Adventurer (required/core adventure for Arrow of Light rank - formerly known as "Camper" and "Outdoorsman"):
Complete Option A OR Option B.
The requirements for option A deal with a campout.
The requirements for option B deal with an outdoor activity.
Either option is acceptable. As Scouter Paul said, a campout is not required.
Complete Option A OR Option B.
The requirements for option A deal with a campout.
The requirements for option B deal with an outdoor activity.
Either option is acceptable. As Scouter Paul said, a campout is not required.
Oct 18, 2020 - Virginia
We have a scout who turned 10 on 9/30/2020...He is in 5th grade and
joined Webeblos 1.
He is friendly with the boys in this den and wants to continue scouting with them and also complete Webeblos 2 with THIS den.
Upon that completion of Webelos 2 and receiving AOL he will be 11 and a half. This will happen right before his 11 1/2 birthday mark in March 2022.
Is he ok to continue on this path?
He is friendly with the boys in this den and wants to continue scouting with them and also complete Webeblos 2 with THIS den.
Upon that completion of Webelos 2 and receiving AOL he will be 11 and a half. This will happen right before his 11 1/2 birthday mark in March 2022.
Is he ok to continue on this path?
Oct 26, 2020 - Jane
@Virginia - I would recommend asking your council Registrar.
Dec 06, 2020 - Kelli
Our Scouts are about to earn their Arrow of Light Rank, but we have 2
months before we cross them over into a troop. If we mark their AOL
complete, are they still able to work on electives and things like Nova
until the Cross?
Dec 06, 2020 - Jane
@Kelli - Yes, as long as they do not register with a troop, they can keep working on electives and Webelos-level awards.
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