To be eligible for election a Scout must be registered in either a Boy Scout Troop or Varsity Scout Team and meet the following requirements:

Unit Leader Approval - The unit leader must certify his Scouting spirit, his adherence to the Scout Oath and Law, and participation in unit activities. He must also certify that the nominee meets all specified requirements at the time of this annual election. Approval must be prior to the election.

Camping Requirement - After registration with a troop or team, have experienced 15 days and nights of Boy Scout camping during the two-year period prior to the election.  The 15 days and nights must include one, but no more than one, long-term camp consisting of six consecutive days and five nights of resident camping, approved and under the auspices and standards of the Boy Scouts of America.  The balance of the camping must be overnight, weekend, or other short-term camps.

First Class Requirement - Hold the First Class rank of the Boy Scouts of America, as a minimum.

Age Requirement – The Order of the Arrow classifies Scouts eligible for election as any Scouts under the age of 21.

Handicapped Scouts - The Order of the Arrow recognizes Scouting for the handicapped, and elections should be held in handicapped units. Any handicapped individual who is classified as a youth member of the unit shall be considered a youth (voting) member of the Order of the Arrow regardless of age. Handicapped Scouts must meet all other membership requirements.