In 2015 the Cub Scout program got a big updated to the requirements for the different ranks. In 2016 it’s the Boy Scouts turn. It’s not as drastic as the Cub program but some of the biggest changes in Boy Scouts are:
- Number of required camping nights has increased
- Number of required service hours has increased
- Emphasis on physical fitness has increased
- Scout is now its own rank
- Boy Scouts are required to tell about their duty to God at each rank
Luckily 2016 is a transition year during which both the old and the new requirements will be used, based on the Scout’s joining date or his current rank on Jan. 1, 2016. Scouts who joined BSA prior to January 1, 2016:
- Who are working on the Tenderfoot through First Class ranks MAY continue to follow the old requirements, but MUST convert to the current requirements upon attaining First Class.
- Who have completed the First Class rank MAY complete the rank they are currently working on in the old requirements, but MUST convert to the current requirements for subsequent ranks.
- Beginning Jan. 1, 2017, all Scouts MUST use the current requirements regardless of rank.
For more information on the program updates, visit the Boy Scout Program Updates page and download the following information from the same site:
- Notes on Transitioning to the New Requirements in 2016
- 2016 Boy Scout requirements—parallel comparison
The 2016 Boy Scout rank requirements are now available for viewing. This document gives a parallel comparison of existing requirements and requirements that will be effective Jan. 1, 2016. - 2016 Boy Scout requirements FAQs
- 2016 Boy Scout Rank Requirements
- 2016 Boy Scout Rank Requirements – Printable Insert
Another great resource is the Bryan on Scouting blog.