About Merit Badges

Scouting offers more than 135 merit badges that cover Scouting skills such as camping and first aid, but also sports, hobbies, science, trades, business, technology, and even future careers. Scouts looking to advance through the higher ranks of Star, Life, and Eagle will need to earn a certain number of merit badges, including some that are specifically required.

For the rank of Eagle Scout, a total of 21 merit badges must be earned, including 14 Eagle-required badges from the list of 17.

Merit Badge Process

When a scout wants to earn a merit badge, they should follow the below steps:

1. Pick a subject - Decide a merit badge you want to earn, and discuss it with the Scoutmaster. The Scoutmaster will then provide you with a signed "merit badge application" and help you find a registered merit badge counselor for the badge you would like to earn. A registered counselor will be knowledgeable in the badge's subject matter.

2. Contact the merit badge counselor - The scout will reach out to the merit badge counselor, and together they will put together a plan of action for completing the badge. Discuss any work already completed, and ask your counselor to help you learn what needs to be done. Obtain the merit badge pamphlet from the troop library or purchase one. Merit badge pamphlets contain information to help you complete the badge.

3. Complete the work - When you feel you have completed all the requirements, contact your merit badge counselor to make an appointment to review all the work you did for the badge. The counselor will test you on each requirement to make sure you have done what is required. The Scout should provide evidence for any work done that cannot be shown directly to the counselor.

4. Be recognized - Your counselor will sign the merit badge application when satisfied you have completed all the requirements. Give the application to your Scoutmaster so you can be awarded your newly earned badge.