Merit badges are a key part of the Scouts BSA program. They teach life skills, encourage personal growth, and help Scouts explore careers and hobbies. In this comprehensive guide, we’ll explain everything you need to know about how merit badges work—from getting started to earning that final sign-off. Whether you’re a new Scout or a parent trying to understand the process, this guide will walk you through it all.
What Are Merit Badges?
Merit badges are awards Scouts earn by learning about specific topics. Each badge represents a different area of interest, such as first aid, camping, personal finance, or environmental science. There are over 135 merit badges available, including 14 that are required for Eagle Scout rank. Earning a badge involves completing a specific set of requirements under the guidance of a trained counselor. Once all tasks are complete, the badge is signed off and added to the Scout’s record.
Purpose of Merit Badges
The merit badge system encourages Scouts to expand their knowledge and gain real-world experience. By working through merit badges, Scouts learn how to set goals, manage their time, and follow through with tasks. It also gives Scouts a chance to explore new hobbies and careers they may not have otherwise considered. Additionally, working with a counselor fosters communication skills and builds confidence. Ultimately, merit badges are a key tool for growth and advancement within the program.
Types of Merit Badges
There are two main types of merit badges: Eagle-required and elective.
1. Eagle-Required Merit Badges
Scouts must earn 14 specific badges to qualify for the Eagle Scout rank. These badges cover essential topics like citizenship, fitness, and emergency preparedness. They are designed to develop a Scout’s character, physical health, and sense of civic duty. Examples include First Aid, Citizenship in the Nation, Personal Fitness, and Camping. These badges form the foundation of the Scouting journey and are often the most rigorously reviewed.
See our full guide: Eagle-Required Merit Badges
2. Elective Merit Badges
Elective merit badges allow Scouts to personalize their experience based on their interests. With topics ranging from Animation to Welding, there’s something for everyone. These badges offer flexibility and creativity, helping Scouts stay engaged and motivated. Elective badges still count toward advancement and are an important part of earning Star, Life, and Eagle ranks. Scouts are encouraged to explore widely and challenge themselves.
How to Start a Merit Badge
Starting a merit badge involves several key steps that ensure the process is structured and Scout-led.
1. Choose a Badge
Pick a topic you’re interested in and review the official requirements. Resources like PathToEagle.org, your Scout Handbook, or troop meetings are great places to find ideas. Choose something that excites you or relates to a skill you want to improve. Don’t be afraid to ask friends or leaders for recommendations. The more interested you are, the easier the badge will be to complete.
2. Get Approval
Before starting, get your Scoutmaster’s permission. This step ensures your efforts will count toward advancement. Your Scoutmaster might also help you understand the scope of the badge and what to expect. Approval usually involves a quick discussion and a signature on a blue card or a note in Scoutbook. Starting without approval can lead to confusion later on.
3. Find a Registered Counselor
Merit badges must be completed with a registered counselor approved by your local council. Your troop may keep a list of available counselors, or you may be assigned one through a badge event. You can also earn badges at summer camp, merit badge universities, or online with digital counselors. Make sure you communicate with your counselor before starting to ensure a smooth process.
4. Start Working on Requirements
Once you’re connected with a counselor, begin completing the requirements exactly as they are written. Some may involve writing, physical skills, interviews, or observation over time. Be honest and thorough—quality matters more than speed. Keep a notebook or digital record to track your progress and store evidence like photos, journal entries, or diagrams.
5. Meet With the Counselor
You’ll meet with your counselor to review what you’ve done and demonstrate your understanding. This can be a single meeting or a series of check-ins, depending on the badge. Be prepared to explain, discuss, or show your work as required. The counselor will assess your effort and completion before signing off. Remember to show Scout spirit and thank them for their time.
How Merit Badge Requirements Work
Each badge has an official list of requirements published by BSA. These are uniform across the country and must be followed as written.
Requirements often include options, such as “do ONE of the following” or “explain AND demonstrate.” Pay close attention to the details—if it says “show,” you must do more than talk about it. Counselors are not allowed to add, remove, or modify the requirements in any way. If you’re unsure how to interpret a task, ask your counselor for clarification.
Updates to merit badges are made periodically. If you start a badge under one set of requirements, you can typically finish it under that version. However, always confirm with your counselor if the badge has changed.
Completing a Merit Badge
Once all the requirements are completed to the counselor’s satisfaction, the badge is officially earned.
1. Blue Card
The blue card is a physical record of your work. It must be signed by both your Scoutmaster and your counselor. Many Scouts use it to track their progress during the badge and keep it until the final court of honor. Always keep your portion as proof in case of record errors.
2. Scoutbook
Scoutbook is a digital platform where leaders and counselors can log requirements and badge completions. Some troops rely heavily on it, while others use it just for recordkeeping. Make sure your badge is marked as “completed” and “approved” in Scoutbook to ensure it counts toward rank.
After the badge is signed off, it will be presented to you at a court of honor or troop meeting. Your advancement records will also be updated with the council.
What Happens If You Don’t Finish?
If you don’t complete all the requirements for a badge, it’s called a partial. This is common when earning badges at camp or events where time is limited.
The good news is that merit badge requirements you complete remain valid, even if you switch counselors. You can pick up where you left off at any time. Keep your blue card or Scoutbook record safe to prove your progress.
To finish a partial, simply find another counselor, show your previous work, and complete the remaining requirements. See our full guide: How to Finish a Partial Merit Badge
Special Merit Badge Opportunities
1. Merit Badge Universities
These are day-long events that offer a variety of badges in a classroom setting. Scouts can attend multiple sessions and often complete several requirements in one day. Some events even include hands-on workshops or guest speakers. They’re a great way to knock out tougher or less accessible badges.
2. Summer Camp
Scout summer camps provide a week-long opportunity to earn several merit badges. Classes are scheduled throughout the day and taught by trained staff. Badges offered usually focus on outdoor skills, nature, aquatics, and handicrafts. Summer camp is also a great place to work with peers and gain confidence in a new environment.
3. Online or Virtual Counseling
Many counselors now offer virtual merit badge sessions through platforms like Zoom. This is especially useful for badges that involve writing, research, or family discussions. Make sure the counselor is registered and approved to offer the badge virtually. You’ll still need to show your work and engage just as if it were in person.
4. Troop or District Events
Troops and local councils often host events focused on one or more badges. These are typically short workshops held on weekends. They’re convenient for trying out new topics, especially when group work or equipment is required. Keep an eye on your council calendar for upcoming opportunities.
Merit Badge FAQs
Can I work on multiple badges at once?
Yes, you can work on more than one badge at a time. However, focusing on two or three at once helps you stay organized and complete them thoroughly. Be sure to track progress and deadlines carefully.
Do merit badges expire?
Merit badges never expire once earned. Requirements you’ve completed remain valid, even if the badge changes. If you’re unsure, ask your counselor whether to use the current or past requirements.
Can parents be counselors?
Yes, parents can serve as counselors if they are registered and trained through the local council. However, it’s best for Scouts to work with other adults to broaden their experiences.
Do I need to wear the badge on my sash?
No, wearing the sash is optional and usually reserved for formal occasions. Many Scouts choose to wear it at courts of honor or boards of review, but it’s not required. You can also store badges in a display or scrapbook.
Final Thoughts
Earning merit badges is one of the most rewarding parts of Scouting. It allows you to explore your passions, grow your skills, and work toward the rank of Eagle Scout. Merit badges teach accountability, independence, and perseverance. They also offer Scouts the chance to try something new, learn from mentors, and celebrate progress with their troop.
Whether you’re just starting your journey or helping your child succeed, understanding how merit badges work makes the whole process easier. Ready to get started? Explore our Complete Merit Badge Guide for requirements, tips, and walkthroughs for every badge!
