The award consists of a silver medallion enameled in blue with meridian lines, stars and the universal emblem of the BSA suspended from a red and white striped ribbon worn around the neck.

Today, public nominations for the award are no longer accepted, but it is used by the executive leadership of the BSA for recognition of world leaders in International Scouting, on the following basis and procedure:[3] The award may be presented to citizens of any country whose Scout association is a member of the World Organization of the Scout Movement, in recognition of his or her service of exceptional character to the youth of his or her own country, or on an international basis.

United States citizens may receive the Silver World Award for international service to youth, provided they are not registered members of the Boy Scouts of America.

As evidence of the award, there will be presented a suitable certificate duly authorized by the Boy Scouts of America.

Note: This list is presented in the order of awards as published by the Boy Scouts of America International Department.