Candidate Frequently Asked Questions

Once elected, am I member?

No. All those who are elected must first successfully pass an Ordeal.

What is the Ordeal?

The Ordeal is an experience aimed at instilling the virtues of service and leadership in the candidate. The tests are all things that a Scout can handle easily. If you have special dietary requirements or have health issues, please discuss them with your Chapter Adviser. As with other tests, the Ordeal can be changed to accommodate those with special requirements.

Where can I take this Ordeal?

The Lodge administers the Ordeal at one of the three Council camping properties. The Lodge Executive Committee determines exact locations and dates each year. Please check the current registration form or Nisqually website for details.

When are the Lodge Ordeal weekends?

The Lodge Ordeal weekends are generally held in late May, early June and Late August. The exact dates are listed on the Nisqually website calendar.

Can I take my Ordeal at summer camp?

No.

My troop is going out of council for summer camp this year AND they offer the Ordeal at camp. Can I take my Ordeal there?

No. The Ordeal must be completed within the Lodge in which you were elected.

How will I be notified about the Ordeal?

Notification will occur one of two ways. Depending on your unit, your notification materials may be given to you at the time of your call-out (identified as a candidate to the OA) or you will receive a mailing from the Lodge, usually within two to four weeks, detailing the dates of the OA weekends, what to bring and other information. There will also be a registration form, which must be filled out and returned by the specified deadline(s).

Is there a fee for the Ordeal?

The cost for the Ordeal weekend is $40 and includes an Order of the Arrow sash, OA Handbook, a Nisqually Lodge flap, lodge dues for the calendar year, and food.

How long do I have after the election to take my ordeal?

You have one year from the date of your election to take your Ordeal. This affords every person at least three opportunities to complete his or her Ordeal.

What if I do not complete my Ordeal within that one-year period?

You would have to be re-elected. In extreme cases such as prolonged medical emergencies, the Lodge Key 3 will consider granting an extension of the Ordeal eligibility period. Each case is considered separately on its own merits and must be brought to the Lodge Adviser or his designee within a timely period. In considering extensions the reasons for missing all three opportunities will be used.

Do adult nominees have to take the Ordeal also?

Yes. Adults have to successfully pass the same ordeal as the youth in order to become members.

Do adults have the same one-year eligibility?

Yes. Adults have one year from the date of their letter of approval from the Lodge Adviser.

An election was held in our troop, but the results were not announced, what happens next?

The scoutmaster has the right to seal the election results for release at some later date, such as a troop court of honor or campout call-out ceremony. However, the year of eligibility starts when the candidate is elected by his unit.

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Other Frequently Asked Question lists:

• General Frequently Asked Questions
• Elections Frequently Asked Questions