Board Instructions

The one-page instruction sheet that goes into the room with each Eagle Scout board of review: what to sign, where, and what to hand back.

Put a copy of these instructions in each final board’s folder. Adjust the list to the forms your district actually uses.


Before the Scout comes in

  • Read the application, the reference letters, and the service project report and pictures. Agree who is chairing.
  • Reference letters are confidential. “The responses are not to be viewed by or returned to the Scout.”

After the board recommends the Scout

  • Eagle Scout Rank Application. The board chair signs the line “Signature of Eagle Scout board of review chair,” with the date of the board on the right. The district’s board representative signs the line below it, “Signature of council/district board representative.”
  • Advancement form. Fill in the Scout’s name, unit (for example, T457), the unit leader’s name and the address as written on the application, and the board date as the “Date Award Earned.” The chair signs the first signature box with the title “Chair”; other members sign the remaining boxes.
  • Congratulations letter. Every board member signs. The Scout keeps it.
  • Scout handbook. Sign it for the Eagle rank if the Scout brought it. “The Scout must not be rejected for not bringing a Scouts BSA Handbook.”

Before you leave the room

  • Give the advancement form and congratulations letter to the Scout.
  • Return the signed application and the sealed reference letters to the district advancement chair. “Unless otherwise directed, the service project workbook and statement of ambitions and life purpose can be returned to the Scout.”
  • Destroy your notes. “Notes should be destroyed after the Scout passes the board.”
Last modified October 18, 2026