The Advancement Trail

On the advancement trail, a Cub Scout progresses towards a badge of rank based on their grade. They need not have earned the previous rank in order to earn the next. Each of the ranks in Cub Scouting has its own requirements that are age appropriate, so earning a rank below a Cub Scout’s current grade is not permitted. As a Cub Scout advances through the ranks, the requirements get more challenging, to match the new skills and abilities they have learned.

Lion

Kindergarten
Den 2 (boys and girls with adult partner)

Lion Rank

Tiger

First Grade
Den 4 (boys and girls with adult partner)

Tiger Rank

Wolf

Second Grade
Den 15 (boys only)
Den 10 (girls only)

Wolf Rank

Bear

Third Grade
Den 12 (boys only)
Den 10 (girls only)

Bear Rank

Webelos

Fourth Grade
Den 1 (boys only)
Den 10 (girls only)

Webelos Rank

Arrow of Light

Fifth Grade
Den 9 (boys only)
Den 10 (girls only)

Arrow Of Light Rank

Rank Requirements

Badges Of Rank Requirements

Activities and Skills

Age- and rank-appropriate guidelines have been developed based on many factors. Below are the Age Appropriate Guidelines For Scouting Activities based on rank/grade:

  • Age Appropriate Guidelines For Scouting Activities
  • Age Appropriate Guidelines For Scouting Activities