# Be active 4 months

Part of the Star Scout guide: [Introduction & Overview](https://scouting.university/scouts-bsa/ranks/star/guide/index.md)

> **1.** Be active in your troop for at least four months as a First Class Scout.

The ranks leading to First Class were task-oriented: you mastered knots, navigated with map and compass, set up camp, and cooked meals. Star introduces a new dimension: **sustained active tenure**. Requirement 1 establishes a four-month period of continuous engagement in your troop as a First Class Scout.

## What "Active Participation" Means

According to the official *Guide to Advancement* (topic 4.2.3.1), active participation is evaluated using three clear, objective standards:

1. **Registration**: You must be officially registered in your unit (or dual-registered in a crew or ship) and in good standing with Scouting America.
2. **Good Standing**: You meet the general behavioral and safety expectations of the unit, living in accordance with the Scout Oath and Scout Law.
3. **Meeting Unit Expectations**: You attend unit meetings, outdoor activities, campouts, and service projects with reasonable regularity.

> **Did You Know?**
>
> "Active" does not demand 100% perfect attendance. Scouting recognizes that young people balance school obligations, athletics, family commitments, and religious activities. If you must miss several meetings due to a seasonal sport or academic demand, speak with your Scoutmaster beforehand to establish an agreed-upon plan for remaining connected.

## Calculating the Four-Month Clock

The four-month clock begins on the exact date you passed your **First Class Board of Review**, not the date you were recognized at a court of honor.

- **Example**: If your First Class board of review took place on October 15, your earliest possible date for a Star board of review is February 15 of the following year (assuming all other requirements are completed).
- **Concurrent Work**: You do not have to wait for the four months to finish before working on other Star requirements. You can earn merit badges, log service hours, and serve in your leadership position during this four-month window.

## Staying Engaged and Building Momentum

Use these four months to transition from being a Scout who participates in activities to one who helps lead and support others:

**Active Scout Habits** — How to make your four months meaningful

- [ ] Attend weekly patrol and troop meetings consistently.
- [ ] Participate actively in monthly campouts, hikes, and troop outdoor adventures.
- [ ] Support your Patrol Leader and Senior Patrol Leader during ceremonies and skill instruction.
- [ ] Communicate proactively with adult and youth leaders if an illness or emergency causes an absence.

> **Tip**
>
> Record the exact date of your First Class board of review in your advancement records or notes. Both your Scoutmaster during your conference and the members of your Star board of review will verify this date.

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