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Blank Bsa Adult Application PDF Form

The BSA Adult Application form is a document required for individuals seeking to volunteer as adult leaders in the Boy Scouts of America (BSA). This application serves to assist the chartered organization in selecting qualified adult leaders who can positively influence youth. It is important for applicants to complete the necessary training and background checks as part of the application process.

To begin your journey as a BSA volunteer, please fill out the form by clicking the button below.

Article Guide

The BSA Adult Application form is a crucial step for individuals looking to volunteer as leaders in the Boy Scouts of America. This form, available in both English and Spanish, serves multiple purposes. It helps chartered organizations select qualified adult leaders who can positively influence youth by being role models. A key requirement for applicants is the completion of Youth Protection Training, which can be done online or in person, and a certificate of completion must accompany the application. The form also includes sections for personal information, scouting background, and experience with youth in other organizations. Additionally, applicants must undergo a criminal background check, which requires separate authorization. The BSA emphasizes its commitment to ethical and moral development through its mission, supported by the Scout Oath and Scout Law. Applicants must also adhere to the Declaration of Religious Principle and complete various training programs to ensure they meet the leadership standards set by the BSA. Furthermore, the application process involves approvals from both the chartered organization and the local council, ensuring a thorough review of each candidate's qualifications and suitability for leadership roles.

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ADULT APPLICATION

This application is also available in Spanish. Esta solicitud también está disponible en español.

Your participation in the BSA can help youth become better citizens.

Adult leaders serve as important role models for youth in the BSA and this application aids the chartered organization

in selecting qualified adult volunteer leaders.

Youth Protection Training

All adult applicants are required to take this training in order to complete the adult application process. Go to my.Scouting.org to create an account and take the training online or contact your local council for classroom training. Include a copy of your completion certificate with this application.

Mission

The mission of the BSA is to prepare young people to make ethical and moral choices over their lifetimes by instilling in them the values

of the Scout Oath and Scout Law.

Criminal Background Check*

In order to complete the adult application

process, you will need to review the different disclosures that have been separately provided to you. The separate authorization form must be signed and returned when you submit your application.

Excerpt From the Declaration of Religious Principle

The BSA maintains that no member can grow into the best kind of citizen without recognizing an obligation to God and, therefore, recognizes

the religious element in the training of the member, but it is absolutely nonsectarian in its attitude toward that religious training. Its policy is that the home and organization or group with which the member is connected shall give definite attention to religious life. Only persons willing to subscribe to these precepts from the Declaration of Religious Principle and the Bylaws of the BSA shall be entitled to register.

*The three different background check forms must be torn off and each separately given to the applicant.

SKU 655528

524-501

2020 Printing

02/2020

Leader Requirements

The BSA is open to all who meet the requirements, and leaders are selected based on individual merit. Adult leaders must possess the moral, educational, and emotional qualities that the BSA deems necessary for positive leadership to youth. They must also:

•Abide by the Scout Oath, Scout Law, and Scouter Code of Conduct. The Scouter Code of Conduct can be found at www.scouting.org/health-and-safety/gss/bsa-scouter-code-of-conduct/.

•Subscribe to the precepts of the Declaration of Religious Principle.

•Reside within the USA or a U.S. territory, or be a U.S. citizen residing outside the USA.

•Be 21 years of age or older for primary leadership positions.

•Be 18 years of age or older for assistant leadership positions.

•Complete Youth Protection training (YPT) before application is processed and renew training as required by going to my.Scouting.org and creating an account.

•Review the disclosure information related to the BSA’s background check process and complete and sign a Background Check Authorization form.

•Take leader position-specific training at my.Scouting.org. Classroom training may also be available through your local council.

APPROVAL REQUIRED—UNIT ADULTS

Chartered organization head or chartered organization representative. The chartered organization representative is approved by the head of the chartered organization. All other adult leader applications must be accepted and approved by the head of the chartered organization or the chartered organization representative.

APPROVAL REQUIRED—COUNCIL and DISTRICT ADULTS Scout executive or designee must accept and approve all council and district adults.

Scout executive or designee must approve any adults who answer “yes” to any Additional Information question.

The adult leader application process will not be complete until Youth Protection training has been completed and a criminal background check has been obtained.

Health information. You should inform your unit leadership of any condition that might limit your participation. Before participating in activities with your unit, please fill out the Annual Health and Medical Record, No. 680-001, found on www.scouting.org/forms and provide it to your unit leadership.

Scouting magazine. All registered, paid adult leaders receive Scouting magazine; $2 of the registration fee is for the subscription.

Boys’ Life. Registered adults get a special rate. For a subscription to a magazine that helps children grow in the Scouting program, just fill in the Boys’ Life circle on the application and pay the subscription price.

The annual national registration fee is nonrefundable.

BSA Privacy Policy

The BSA protects the confidentiality of the names and personal information of those who are affiliated with the organization. No commercial or unauthorized use is made of the names, addresses, and other confidential information. The BSA and its affinity groups may use registration information to notify registrants of benefit opportunities.

For general questions, contact your local BSA council.

What Is the BSA Program?

The BSA program is outlined in the official publications of the BSA. Activities that are not in these BSA publications are not a part of the Scouting program. Leaders must not allow youth members or program participants to engage in any unauthorized or prohibited activities.

Training for New Leaders

The BSA is committed to your success as a volunteer while serving young people. To help you be successful there are training materials designed for you. Training resources are available through your local council and at my.Scouting.org.

What Makes a Trained Leader?

You are considered a trained leader when you have completed leader position-specific training for your position and have current Youth Protection training.

Youth Protection Begins With You™

Child abuse is a serious problem in our society, and unfortunately, it can occur anywhere, even in Scouting. For that reason, the BSA continues to create barriers to abuse beyond what have previously existed in Scouting.

The BSA is committed to providing a safe environment for young people. All adult leaders must complete Youth Protection training as part of the registration process and renew their training as required. It is highly recommended that parents who participate in Scouting activities complete YPT. To learn more about the BSA’s Youth Protection resources, go to www.scouting.org/training/youth-protection/.

Mandatory Reporting

All persons involved in Scouting must immediately report to local authorities any good-faith suspicion or belief that any child is or has been physically or sexually abused; physically or emotionally neglected; exposed to any form of violence or threat; or exposed to any form of sexual exploitation including the possession, manufacture, or distribution of child pornography, online solicitation, enticement, or showing of obscene material. No person may abdicate this reporting responsibility to any other person.

Additionally, any known or suspected abuse or behavior that might put a youth at risk must also be reported to the local Scout executive or the Scouts First Helpline (1-844-SCOUTS1 or 1-844-726-8871) if your Scout executive or local council cannot be reached.

Youth Protection Policies

•Two registered adult leaders 21 years of age or over are required at all Scouting activities, including meetings. There must be a registered female adult leader over 21 in every unit serving females.

A registered female adult leader over 21 must be present for any activity involving female youth.

•One-on-one contact between adult leaders and youth members is prohibited both inside and outside of Scouting.

These and other key Youth Protection policies are addressed in the training and at www.scouting.org/ training/youth-protection/.

To learn about the BSA’s other health and safety policies, please review the online version of the Guide to Safe Scouting, the Scouter Code of Conduct, and the Sweet Sixteen of BSA Safety, which are available at www.scouting.org/health-and-safety.

Scout Oath

On my honor I will do my best to do my duty to God and my country and to obey the Scout Law; to help other people at all times; to keep myself physically strong, mentally awake, and morally straight.

Scout Law

A Scout is trustworthy, loyal, helpful, friendly, courteous, kind, obedient, cheerful, thrifty, brave, clean, and reverent.

Please print one letter in each space.

BSA ADULT APPLICATION

First name (Full legal name)

Middle name

Last name

Suffix

Preferred nickname:

Country

Home address

City

State

Zip code

Primary phone

Alternate phone

Ext.

Date of birth (mm/dd/yyyy)

All questions MUST be answered.Write NONE if applicable.

1.	Scouting background.
	Position	Council	Year
	____________________________________
	____________________________________
	____________________________________
2.	Experience working with youth in other
	organizations. Please provide contact information.
	____________________________________
	____________________________________
	____________________________________
3.	Previous residences (for last 10 years).
	City		State

		-			-

Ethnic background:			○ Native American
○ Black/African American			○ Native American
○	Caucasian/White		○	Hispanic/Latino
	Caucasian/White			Hispanic/Latino

Social Security No. (required)

○ Alaska Native

○ Asian

Driver’s license No.

○

Pacific Islander

○

Other

Occupation

Employer

State

Gender

○ M ○ F

	_______________________ ____________
	_______________________ ____________
	_______________________ ____________
4.	Current memberships (religious, community,
	business, labor, or professional organizations).
	____________________________________
	____________________________________
	____________________________________
5.	References. Please list those who are familiar with

-			-

your character. References may be checked.

Name___________________________________

Telephone (_____)_________________________

Country

Business address

Position code

Scouting position title

Email address

○ Work

(Select one)

○ Home

City

State

Zip code

Are you an Eagle Scout? Date earned (mm/dd/yyyy)

○

Yes

○

Boys’ Life

subscription

Name___________________________________

Telephone (_____)_________________________

Name___________________________________

Telephone (_____)_________________________

6. Additional information.	Yes No
(Mark each answer.)	○ ○
a. Have you ever been removed from	○ ○
or asked to leave a leadership
position in an organization due to
allegations regarding your personal
conduct or behavior? Explain:

I hereby certify that:
I hereby certify that:
1.	I have read and affirm that I accept the Declaration of Religious Principle. I agree to comply with the rules and regulations of	INITIALS
	the BSA and the local council, including the Scouter Code of Conduct.	REQUIRED
		_________	Signature of applicant			Date
2.	I affirm that the information contained in this application is true and accurate to the best of my knowledge and belief.	INITIALS	○	YPT completion certificate attached	○	Background Check Authorization form attached
		REQUIRED	○		○

_________

To be completed by unit

Careful review of the information provided on this application is a significant step in Scouting’s efforts to protect its youth members and deliver a quality program.

APPROVALS FOR UNIT ADULTS: I have reviewed this application and the responses to any questions answered “Yes,” and		APPROVAL FOR COUNCIL AND DISTRICT ADULTS: I have reviewed this application and have made any follow-up inquiries
have made any follow-up inquiries necessary to be satisfied that the applicant possesses the moral, educational, and		necessary to be satisfied that the applicant possesses the moral, educational, and emotional qualities to be an adult leader
emotional qualities to be an adult leader in the BSA.		in the BSA.

b. Do you use illegal drugs or abuse	○ ○
alcohol? Explain:
c. Have you ever been arrested for a	○ ○
criminal offense (other than minor
traffic violations)? Explain:
d. Has your driver’s license ever been	○ ○
suspended or revoked? Explain:

Signature of chartered organization head or representative
Unit	○ Pack	○ Troop	○ New leader			○ Position change
type:	○ Crew	○ Ship	○ Former leader			○ Participant
				District name
Unit			OR
No.			OR
No.

Registration $					Boys’ Life	$
fee					fee

Date

Signature of Scout executive or designee

Date

If applicant has an unexpired membership certificate, registration may be accomplished at no charge by transferring the registration or multiple registering.


○ Transfer application
○ Transfer application			Enter membership number
○ Multiple application			from unexpired certificate:
○ Multiple application			Unit	○Pack	○Troop
	Council No.:		Unit	○Pack	○Troop	Unit No. or
			type:	○Crew	○Ship	District name:
				○Crew	○Ship

	PAID: ○ Cash	○ Check No. _________				○ Credit card

e.	Have you ever been investigated for,	○ ○
	accused of, or charged with abuse or
	neglect of a minor child? Explain:
f.	Are you aware of any reason	○ ○

not listed above that may call into question your suitability to supervise, guide, care for, and lead young people?

524-501

Tear off the following pages and provide to applicant separately.

BACKGROUND CHECK

DISCLOSURE

A consumer report is a background check in which information (which may include, but is not limited to, criminal background, driving background, character, general reputation, personal characteristics, and mode of living) about you is gathered and communicated by a consumer reporting agency (“CRA”) to Boy Scouts of America and/or its subsidiaries, affiliates, other related entities, and/or successors (the “Company”).

Company may obtain a consumer report on you to be used for employment purposes (in your case, this means for the purpose of evaluating you as a new or existing volunteer).

CALIFORNIA

STATE LAW DISCLOSURES

(Non-Credit)

Under California law, an “investigative consumer report” is a consumer report in which information on a consumer’s character, general reputation, personal characteristics, or mode of living is obtained through any means. Boy Scouts of America and/or its subsidiaries, affiliates, other related entities, and/or successors (the “Company”) may obtain an investigative consumer report (which may include information described above) from an investigative consumer reporting agency (“ICRA”) on you in connection with your status as a volunteer (i.e., for employment purposes under California law). The nature and scope of this investigation includes your character, general reputation, personal characteristics, or mode of living information, including criminal history and driving record.

The ICRA preparing the investigative consumer report and conducting the investigation will be First Advantage, P.O. Box 105292, Atlanta, GA 30348, 800-845-6004. Information regarding First Advantage’s privacy practices can be found at https://fadv.com/privacy-policy/.

Under California Civil Code section 1786.22, you are entitled to a visual inspection of files maintained on you by an ICRA, as follows:

(1)In person, if you appear in person and furnish proper identification, during normal business hours and on reasonable notice. A copy of your file shall also be available to you for a fee not to exceed the actual costs of duplication services provided;

(2)By certified mail, if you make a written request, with proper identification, for copies to be sent to a specified addressee. An ICRA complying with requests for certified mailings under California Civil Code section 1786.22 shall not be liable for disclosures to third parties caused by mishandling of mail after such mailings leave the ICRA;

(3)A summary of all information contained in your files and required to be provided by California Civil Code section 1786.10 shall be provided to you by telephone, if you have made a written request, with proper identification for telephone disclosure, and the toll charges, if any, for the telephone call are prepaid by you or charged directly to you.

“Proper Identification,” as used above, means information generally deemed sufficient to identify you, which includes documents such as a valid driver’s license, social security account number, military identification card, and credit cards. Only if you cannot identify yourself with such information may the ICRA require additional information concerning your employment and personal or family history in order to verify your identity.

The ICRA will provide trained personnel to explain any information furnished to you pursuant to California Civil Code section 1786.10 and will provide a written explanation of any coded information contained in files maintained on you. This written explanation will be provided whenever a file is provided to you for visual inspection under California Civil Code section 1786.22.

You may be accompanied by one other person of your choosing, who must furnish reasonable identification. An ICRA may require you to furnish a written statement granting permission to the ICRA to discuss your file in such person’s presence.

ADDITIONAL DISCLOSURES & BACKGROUND CHECK AUTHORIZATION

Additional Disclosures

The state disclosures below are included because state law requires them to be provided in writing. Some of the below rights, notices, or information also may apply to individuals from, applying to, or volunteering in states not listed below. There may be additional requirements, options, or provisions applicable to you and you may have additional rights under applicable law that are not required to be disclosed to you in writing.

Minnesota: You have the right to request a complete and accurate disclosure of the nature and scope of any consumer report from First Advantage, P.O. Box 105292, Atlanta, GA 30348, 800-845-6004.

New York: Boy Scouts of America and/or its subsidiaries, affiliates, other related entities, and/or successors (the “Company”) may request or utilize subsequent consumer reports (other than investigative consumer reports) on you throughout your volunteer relationship with Company. Upon request, you will be informed whether or not a consumer report was requested, and if such report was requested, informed of the name and address of the CRA that furnished the report. Your written request should be made to Company at Boy Scouts of America, Membership Standards Team S201, 1325 West Walnut Hill Lane, P.O. Box 152079, Irving Texas 75015-2079. You may also contact the Company by email at [email protected].

AUTHORIZATION

(Please print)

Name: First ____________________ Middle _______________Last ________________________ Suffix _________

List any other names used (nickname, maiden/married last names:):_________________________________________

Date of Birth: _______________________________ Unit Type and Number: _______________________________

To the extent permitted by applicable law, I hereby consent to and authorize the Boy Scouts of America and/or its subsidiaries, affiliates, other related entities, and/or successors (the “Company”) to procure consumer report(s) (as defined by federal law) and/or investigative consumer report(s) (as defined by applicable California state law), which in my case means criminal background check(s)/driving record(s), on my background from a consumer reporting agency (“CRA”) or from an investigative consumer reporting agency (“ICRA”), as described in the Background Check Disclosure and the California State Law Disclosures (Non-Credit) (each of which I have received separately from the Company), as well as these Additional Disclosures & Background Check Authorization. This authorization applies only to criminal checks/driving records and does not allow the Company to obtain credit checks. I have reviewed and understand the information, statements, and notices in the Background Check Disclosure and the California State Law Disclosures (Non-Credit), as well as these Additional Disclosures & Background Check Authorization. My authorization remains valid throughout my volunteer relationship with the Company, such that, to the extent permitted by applicable law, I agree Company can procure additional consumer report(s), which in my case means criminal background check(s)/driving record(s), during my volunteer relationship without providing additional disclosures or obtaining additional authorizations. Except as otherwise prohibited by applicable law, I consent to and authorize the Company to share this information with Company’s local councils and/or chartered organizations for business reasons (e.g., to place me in certain positions, work sites, etc.). I understand that, if I am selected for a volunteer position, a consumer report will have been conducted on me.

For California, Minnesota, or Oklahoma individuals: If you would like to receive from the CRA, the ICRA, or the Company (as applicable) a copy of the report that Company may procure, please check this box.

Signature _______________________________________ Date ________________________________________

02/2020

➤ PDF File

Form Specifications

Fact Name	Description
Application Availability	The BSA Adult Application is available in Spanish, ensuring accessibility for a broader audience.
Youth Protection Training	All adult applicants must complete Youth Protection Training before their application is processed.
Criminal Background Check	A separate authorization form for a criminal background check must be signed and submitted with the application.
Age Requirements	Applicants must be at least 21 years old for primary leadership positions and 18 years old for assistant roles.
Approval Process	Applications require approval from the chartered organization head or representative, as well as from the Scout executive for council and district adults.
Health Information	Applicants should inform unit leadership of any health conditions that may affect participation in activities.
Mandatory Reporting	All individuals involved in Scouting must report any suspicion of child abuse or neglect immediately.
Youth Protection Policies	Two registered adult leaders must be present at all Scouting activities, ensuring safety and supervision.
BSA Privacy Policy	The BSA protects the confidentiality of personal information and does not allow unauthorized use of this data.
Training for New Leaders	New leaders have access to training resources through local councils and online platforms to ensure their effectiveness.

Bsa Adult Application: Usage Guidelines

Filling out the BSA Adult Application form is a crucial step in becoming a volunteer leader with the Boy Scouts of America. This process ensures that the organization selects qualified individuals who can positively influence youth. Once you complete the application, it will be submitted for approval, and you will need to provide additional documentation, including your Youth Protection training completion certificate.

Obtain the Application: Download the BSA Adult Application form from the official BSA website or request a physical copy from your local council.
Complete Personal Information: Fill in your full legal name, preferred nickname, address, contact numbers, and date of birth. Ensure all information is accurate.
Scouting Background: Provide details about your previous positions in scouting, including the council and years of service.
Experience with Youth: List your experience working with youth in other organizations, including contact information.
Previous Residences: Indicate your previous addresses for the last ten years and provide your Social Security number and driver’s license number.
Current Memberships: Mention any current memberships in religious, community, business, or professional organizations.
References: List at least two references who can speak to your character. Include their names, phone numbers, and addresses.
Answer Additional Questions: Respond to the yes/no questions regarding your conduct and any criminal history. Provide explanations where required.
Sign the Application: Certify that you have read and accept the Declaration of Religious Principle and that the information provided is accurate. Include your signature and date.
Gather Additional Documents: Include a copy of your Youth Protection training completion certificate and the signed Background Check Authorization form.
Submit the Application: Send the completed application and documents to your local council for processing and approval.

Your Questions, Answered

What is the purpose of the BSA Adult Application form?

The BSA Adult Application form is designed to assist chartered organizations in selecting qualified adult volunteer leaders. By completing this application, individuals can participate in the BSA program, which aims to help youth become better citizens through positive role models.

What training is required for adult applicants?

All adult applicants must complete Youth Protection Training (YPT) before their application can be processed. This training can be taken online at my.Scouting.org or through classroom sessions offered by local councils. A copy of the completion certificate must be included with the application.

What are the age requirements for adult leaders?

Adult leaders must be at least 21 years old for primary leadership positions. For assistant leadership positions, applicants must be at least 18 years old. These age requirements ensure that leaders have the necessary maturity and experience to guide youth effectively.

What is involved in the criminal background check process?

As part of the application process, all adult applicants are required to undergo a criminal background check. This includes reviewing separate disclosures provided to the applicant and signing a Background Check Authorization form. These steps are crucial for maintaining a safe environment for youth members.

How does the BSA ensure Youth Protection?

The BSA has established strict Youth Protection policies, including the requirement for two registered adult leaders at all Scouting activities. Additionally, one-on-one contact between adult leaders and youth members is prohibited. These measures are designed to create a safe environment and prevent abuse.

What should I do if I have health concerns?

Applicants should inform their unit leadership of any health conditions that may limit their participation in activities. Before engaging in Scouting activities, it is also necessary to fill out the Annual Health and Medical Record and provide it to unit leadership.

What are the benefits of being a registered adult leader?

Registered adult leaders receive various benefits, including a subscription to Scouting magazine. Additionally, they can opt for a special rate for a Boys’ Life subscription. Being a registered leader also allows individuals to actively contribute to the development of youth in the Scouting program.

What happens if my application is not approved?

If an application is not approved, the applicant will be notified by the chartered organization head or representative. It is important to note that all applications must be accepted and approved by the appropriate authorities to ensure that all leaders meet the necessary requirements for positive youth leadership.

Common mistakes

Incomplete Information: One common mistake is leaving sections of the application blank. Every question must be answered, even if it means writing "NONE" for applicable questions. Failing to provide complete information can delay the processing of your application.
Neglecting Required Documents: Applicants often forget to include important documents, such as the Youth Protection training completion certificate and the Background Check Authorization form. These documents are essential for your application to be considered complete.
Incorrect Personal Details: It’s crucial to ensure that your personal details, like your name, date of birth, and Social Security number, are accurate. Mistakes in these areas can lead to complications with background checks and registration.
Overlooking the Approval Process: Many applicants do not understand the approval requirements. The application must be approved by the chartered organization head or representative. Failing to follow this step can result in delays or denial of your application.

Documents used along the form

The BSA Adult Application form is a crucial document for anyone looking to become a volunteer leader in the Boy Scouts of America. However, several other forms and documents are often used in conjunction with it to ensure a thorough and safe application process. Below is a list of these essential documents.

Youth Protection Training Completion Certificate: This certificate proves that the applicant has completed the required Youth Protection Training, which is essential for all adult leaders in the BSA.
Background Check Authorization Form: This form grants permission for the BSA to conduct a criminal background check on the applicant, which is necessary for safeguarding youth members.
Annual Health and Medical Record: This document provides important health information about the applicant, ensuring they can participate in Scouting activities safely.
Scouter Code of Conduct: Acknowledgment of this code ensures that leaders understand the expectations for behavior and conduct while serving in their roles.
Declaration of Religious Principle: This form confirms that the applicant subscribes to the BSA's principles regarding the importance of recognizing an obligation to God.
Leader Position-Specific Training Completion Certificate: This certificate verifies that the applicant has completed training specific to their intended leadership role within the BSA.
References List: A list of individuals who can vouch for the applicant's character and experience working with youth, which may be checked during the application process.
Scout Executive Approval Form: This form is signed by the Scout executive or their designee, indicating that the application has been reviewed and approved for council and district adults.

These documents collectively contribute to a comprehensive review process, ensuring that all adult leaders are well-prepared and qualified to guide youth in the Scouting program. Proper completion and submission of these forms are essential for a smooth application experience.

Similar forms

Job Application Form: Similar to the BSA Adult Application, a job application form collects personal information, work history, and references. Both documents require applicants to provide details that demonstrate their suitability for the position, whether in a job or as a volunteer leader.
Volunteer Registration Form: This form is often used by non-profit organizations to gather information from individuals interested in volunteering. Like the BSA Adult Application, it typically includes sections for personal details, previous experience, and references, ensuring that volunteers meet the organization's requirements.
Membership Application for Clubs or Organizations: Many clubs and organizations have membership applications that ask for personal information, background, and reasons for joining. These applications, similar to the BSA form, aim to assess the applicant's fit within the group and adherence to its values.
Background Check Authorization Form: This document is used to obtain permission from an individual to conduct a background check. It parallels the BSA Adult Application in that it requires the applicant's consent for a thorough review of their history, ensuring safety and compliance with organizational standards.
Childcare Provider Application: Applications for childcare positions often require detailed information about the applicant's background, experience with children, and personal references. Much like the BSA Adult Application, these forms focus on ensuring that individuals are qualified and trustworthy in caring for youth.

Dos and Don'ts

When filling out the BSA Adult Application form, there are specific actions to take and avoid to ensure a smooth application process. Below is a list of recommended practices.

Complete all sections: Ensure every question is answered. If a question does not apply, write "NONE."
Include required documents: Attach your Youth Protection Training completion certificate and the Background Check Authorization form.
Provide accurate information: Double-check your personal details, including your Social Security number and contact information.
Review the Declaration of Religious Principle: Familiarize yourself with and affirm acceptance of this document.
Be honest about your background: Answer questions regarding past conduct or allegations truthfully.
Check for signatures: Ensure that both your signature and the chartered organization representative's signature are present.
Submit on time: Turn in your application promptly to avoid delays in processing.

Conversely, there are certain actions to avoid:

Do not leave any questions unanswered.
Avoid submitting incomplete applications without the necessary documents.
Do not provide false or misleading information.
Refrain from neglecting the importance of Youth Protection Training.
Do not skip the review of the Declaration of Religious Principle.
Do not forget to check for required signatures before submission.
Do not delay in submitting your application, as this can impact your ability to participate.

Misconceptions

Here are some common misconceptions about the BSA Adult Application form, along with clarifications to help you understand the process better:

Only certain people can apply. Many believe that only individuals with prior Scouting experience can fill out the application. In reality, anyone who meets the basic requirements can apply to be an adult leader.
You don’t need training to apply. Some think that training is optional. However, all adult applicants must complete Youth Protection Training before their application can be processed.
Background checks are optional. There’s a misconception that background checks are not necessary. In fact, a criminal background check is a mandatory part of the application process.
Approval is automatic. Many assume that submitting the application guarantees approval. Approval is required from the chartered organization and the council, and it is not guaranteed.
Health information is not important. Some applicants might overlook the health information section. However, it’s crucial to inform unit leadership about any conditions that could affect participation.
Only adults over 21 can be leaders. While primary leadership positions require applicants to be at least 21, assistant leadership roles can be filled by those who are 18 or older.
Filling out the application is enough. Some believe that just submitting the application is sufficient. In reality, applicants must also provide a Youth Protection Training completion certificate and a signed Background Check Authorization form.
The application is the same for everyone. There’s a belief that the application is a one-size-fits-all document. In truth, it may vary based on the specific role and organization requirements.

Key takeaways

When filling out the BSA Adult Application form, there are several important points to keep in mind. Here are key takeaways to ensure a smooth application process:

Youth Protection Training is mandatory. All adult applicants must complete this training before submitting the application. You can take the training online or through your local council.
Criminal Background Check is required. Be sure to review and sign the separate authorization form for the background check, which must accompany your application.
Be honest in your responses. All questions on the application must be answered fully. If a question does not apply to you, write "NONE."
Approval is needed from your chartered organization. Your application must be accepted by the head of the chartered organization or a designated representative.
Health information is important. Inform your unit leadership of any health conditions that may affect your participation, and complete the Annual Health and Medical Record.
Subscriptions are available. Registered adult leaders receive Scouting magazine, and there’s an option for a discounted subscription to Boys’ Life.
Confidentiality is protected. The BSA safeguards your personal information and does not allow unauthorized use of it.

Following these guidelines will help ensure your application is processed smoothly and efficiently. Your role as an adult leader is vital in shaping the experiences of youth in Scouting.