To start off, being elected into the Order of the Arrow is a great honor and should be taken seriously. The OA is not a group of super scouts that can weather all camping experiences, it is a service organization. Many would do well to remember this upon electing their fellows into this noble goal and purpose.
If you are interested in becoming a member in the Order of the Arrow and taking upon yourself the solemn obligation of its members, then complete these prerequisites. Completing these does not guarantee that you will be elected, these just tell whether or not you are eligible.
For Scouts:
- You must be registered in the Boy Scouts of America
- You must have 15 days and nights of camping in the 2 years prior to your election. These days and nights must include: 1.) one long-term camp (such as summer camp, Philmont, Sea Base, etc., consisting of at least 6 consecutive days and 5 consecutive nights), 2.) other troop, council, or district trips, which include overnight, weekend, and other short term trips.
- Be ranked First Class or higher
- Must be in attendance at a long-term camp during election
If you meet the above requirements, you can be elected into the Order of the Arrow by your fellow scouts.
For Scouters:
- Adults (ages 21 or older) must be registered in the BSA
- You must also complete 15 days and nights in a duration of 2 years, with the same mandates and constraints upon them as seen above in the list for the youth.
- You must provide an example of Service and Leadership to the youth members of both your troop and your lodge.
If you meet the above conditions, you must be elected by your troop’s committee. However, if your youth does not get elected into OA and you do, you have the option to opt out of your induction. This is not encouraged, but we understand your choice if you choose to do so. Also, if you do not wish to enter the Order of the Arrow, you may again choose to opt out.