All about the STEM Advancement Program

Your one stop for information about STEM advancement and activities

Program Overview

Effective June 1, 2025, all STEM Nova and Super NOVA awards and content were removed from Scouting.org. STEM Nova and Super NOVA awards will not be available in ScoutBook and STEM Nova and Super NOVA counselor positions are no longer registered positions in Scouting America.

The Nova Awards

Each Nova award covers one component of STEM - science, technology, engineering, or mathematics. For their first Nova award, Scouts earn the distinctive Nova award patch. After that, a Scout can earn three more Nova awards, each one recognized with a separate pi (π) pin-on device that attaches to the patch. The patch and the three devices represent each of the four STEM topics: science, technology, engineering, and mathematics. 

The Supernova Awards

The Supernova awards have more rigorous requirements than the Nova awards. The requirements and activities are designed to motivate youth and recognize more in-depth, advanced achievement in STEM-related activities.

Nova/Supernova Learning Plans (Training)

The learning modules below replace the training that was available through My.Scouting.org. Each of the modules is a PowerPoint file that can be downloaded, and retained for reference.  

What is STEM? STEM Nova and Supernova   

How to Teach a Nova Award Part 1   How to Teach a Nova Award Part 2

Dr. Albert Einstein Supernova Award (Supernova Mentors Only)