Adult Training Awards

In March of 1946, the Boy Scouts of America announced the first six square knot awards. These awards were to replace the ribbon bars that were being earned at the time. The list of knots has continued to grow. Some knots have been discontinued and others have been added. At present there are 35 knot awards. These awards are worn on the Scouting uniform in place of the plaque or large pendant that they represent. 

Following are description of knots related to training. Links are related to requirements for the knots, nomination forms, or forms to track progress.

Training Keys

This knot is earned by serving in positions in Boy Scouting, Varsity Scouting, Venturing, Commissioner Service, and District Committee, as indicated below. Additional training, tenure and performance is required. A Scouter who fulfills the requirements for this knot in more than one program area may wear one or more small devices on the knot to distinguish in which program the award was earned. The official description of this award can be found in the Leadership Training Committee Guide.

Download Progress Records for:

Scouter's Training Awards

This award is earned by leaders serving in positions in Boy Scouting, Varsity Scouting, Venturing, and Commissioner Service, as indicated below. The criteria involves proper training, tenure, and performance. A Scouter who fulfills the requirements for this knot in more than one program area may wear one or more small devices on the knot to distinguish in which program the award was earned. The official description of this award can be found in the Leadership Training Committee Guide.

Download Progress Records for:

Unit Leader Award of Merit

This award is earned by unit leaders serving in Boy Scouting and Venturing, as indicated below. The criteria involves the proper training, tenure, and performance. If someone fulfills the requirements for this knot in more than one program area they may wear one or more small devices on the knot to distinguish in which program the award was earned. The official description of this award can be found in the Leadership Training Committee Guide. The award replaces the Scoutmaster Award of Merit, Venturing Advisor Award of Merit, and the Varsity Coach Award of Merit. This new recognition has revised requirements and may also be earned by Cubmasters. Click here for more information and a nomination form. 

Seabadge Conference

Seabadge is the official advanced training program of Sea Scouting. This 3-day course is designed to provide the program specific management techniques that can improve the quality of the Ships' programming. Adults that participate in a Seabadge Conference may earn this award.

Tiger Cub Den Leader Award

Adults that serve as a Tiger Cub Den Leader may earn this award by completing the required training, tenure, and performance. The requirements of this award can be found in the Cub Scout Leader Book and

the Leadership Training Committee Guide.

Cub Scouter Award

Adults that complete the required training, tenure and performance in a Pack position may earn this award. The requirements of this award can be found in the Cub Scout Leader Book and the Leadership Training Committee Guide.

Cubmaster Award

Cubmasters that complete the required training, tenure, and performance can earn this award. The requirements can be found in the Cub Scout Leader Book and the Leadership Training Committee Guide.

Cub Scout Den Leader Award

This award is designed for those that complete the required training, tenure, and performance while serving as a Cub Scout Den Leader. The requirements of this award can be found in the Cub Scout Leader Book and the Leadership Training Committee Guide.

Webelos Den Leader Award

Webelos den leaders may earn this award by completing the required training, tenure, and performance. The requirements of this award can be found in the Cub Scout Leader Book and the Leadership Training Committee Guide.

Pack Trainer Award

Discontinued. Replaced by Scouter's Training Award for Cub Scouters.

The Doctorate of Commissioner Science Award Knot

The Doctorate of Commissioner Science Award Knot is available to any currently active commissioner at any position by completing the attached requirements. Approval is administered by the local council through the Council Commissioner and the Council Director of Field Service. Click here to download the requirements.

Professional Training Award

Scouting professionals can earn this award after meeting specific tenure and training requirements.

Adult Recognition Awards

Click here to learn more about other recognition awards (Knots) that may be earned by Scouters.

Devices

The following devices may be worn on knots, as appropriate.                                      

Boy Scouts	Cub Scouts	Webelos
District/Council	Commissioners	Sea Scouts
Varsity	Explorers	Venturing
1910 Society	Founders Circle	Distinguished Eagle Scout

How to Wear Your Knots

Is there a right way (and a wrong way) to wear knots? Yes there is.

• Click on this link for the explanation from the BSA Insignia Guide.
• Another explanation can be found here.

Learn More About Knots

Besides knots awarded for completion of tenure and training requirements, there are many knots that recognize other aspects of Scouting, including Eagle Scout, bravery, outstanding service, and support of Scouting:

• A good resource on Knots
• This link has a good history of Knots (listed under "Publications")
• Reprint of Scouting Magazine Article, "Know Your Knots"