Outdoor Adventures
Camping, hiking, fishing and outdoor activities give kids the chance to explore, solve problems and try something new.
Have Step Up Funds?
They may help cover Scouting.
Eligibility and reimbursement are subject to current Step Up For Students guidelines and available scholarship funds.
Good News for Scouting Families
Yes, Scouts Are Included
Step Up For Students specifically lists:
“Club Fees, including Scouts, 4-H and FFA Clubs”
View Current Step Up Guidelines →Learning by Doing
Learning That Doesn't Feel Like School
Scouting gives kids opportunities to learn through real experiences while building confidence, character and friendships along the way.
STEM & Hands-On Learning
From building and experimenting to learning practical skills, Scouts learn by actually doing.
Leadership & Life Skills
Scouts take on responsibility, work with others and build skills that help them become more confident and independent.
Service & Community
Service projects help young people understand how their skills and actions can make a difference for others.
Kids are learning the whole time. They just know they're having an adventure, building something, helping someone or accomplishing something new.
Getting Started
How It Works
Using Step Up funds for an eligible Scouting expense generally starts with three simple steps.
1
Check Your Scholarship
Confirm that your student has eligible Step Up For Students funds available.
2
Join a Local Scouting Group
Find a local Scouting group that fits your child's age and interests, then complete registration.
3
Submit Eligible Expenses
If you pay an eligible Scouting expense out of pocket, submit your reimbursement request through your Step Up account.
Find the Right Fit
Which Scouting Program Is Right for Your Child?
Scouting offers different programs based on age and interests. There is a place to start at almost every stage.
Cub Scouts
Grades K–5
Family adventures, outdoor fun and hands-on activities that help kids make friends and build confidence.
Scouts BSA
Ages 11–17
Camping, outdoor adventure, advancement and leadership experiences that challenge Scouts to grow.
Venturing
Ages 14–20
Youth-led adventure, leadership and service built around the interests of each crew.
Sea Scouts
Ages 14–20
Boating, sailing and maritime skills combined with leadership, teamwork and adventure on the water.
Exploring
Ages 10–20
Hands-on career experiences that help young people explore interests and build real-world skills.
Program availability varies by location. Step Up eligibility and reimbursement are subject to current scholarship guidelines and available funds.
Step Up + Scouting
Common Questions
A few things families often want to know before getting started.
Your child may qualify to use scholarship funds for Scouting registration if they have an awarded, accepted and funded FES-UA, FTC/FES-EO or PEP scholarship and eligible funds are available.
Families should confirm coverage for their specific scholarship and expense before registering.
Families should generally expect to pay the Scouting registration expense first and then submit a reimbursement request through their Step Up account.
Keep your itemized receipt, proof of payment and registration documentation. Additional documentation may be requested by Step Up.
Current Step Up guidance specifically includes club fees, including Scouts. Not every Scouting-related expense is necessarily covered.
Families should confirm the specific expense in the current Step Up purchasing guidance before making a purchase.
Step Up may require proof of payment and documentation showing that the expense qualifies. Requirements can vary depending on the expense and scholarship.
Follow the current reimbursement instructions in your Step Up account when submitting your request.