Almost as soon as it began, Scouting America’s merit badge program began to evolve to better meet the needs of the Scouts of the time.
There are no longer merit badges for Master-at-Arms, Citrus Fruit Culture and Farm Arrangements, but there are merit badges for Digital Technology, Environmental Science and Multisport.
Now the latest evolution of the program is here: All merit badge pamphlets are available as free PDFs on the official Scouting America Merit Badge Hub.
“Making every merit badge pamphlet freely available online meets Scouts where they already learn and share information,” says Scouts BSA national program chair Angelique Minett. “By removing cost and access barriers, we’re empowering more young people to dive into new skills the moment curiosity strikes.”
To get to the PDFs, click on the name of the merit badge you’re looking for, and scroll down until you see the button labeled “Download the Free Pamphlet.”
Can I still get printed merit badge pamphlets?
Yes.
Just like some people prefer to read books printed on real paper, some folks prefer good ol’ printed merit badge pamphlets.
You can still buy printed merit badge pamphlets online or at your local Scout Shop.
How can I be sure I’m getting the most up-to-date merit badge requirements?
You’ll notice that the requirements are no longer included in the PDF versions of the pamphlets on the merit badge hub. That’s because Scouts and counselors should always check the merit badges homepage (or, alternatively, Scoutbook) to make sure you’re getting the latest requirements, like the recent updates to the Chemistry merit badge.
With the pamphlets now online, has the process of earning a merit badge changed?
The process of earning merit badges remains the same.
First, pick a subject. Next, connect with a merit badge counselor. Then, get to work!
What is a merit badge counselor?
A merit badge counselor serves as both a teacher and a mentor as Scouts work on a merit badge. The counselor’s responsibilities include the following:
- Assist Scouts as they plan the assigned projects and activities to meet all the requirements.
- Coach them through interviews and demonstrations on how to complete the various requirements.
- Sign off with their approval once they are satisfied the Scout has individually and personally completed the requirements exactly as written.
Click here to learn more about being a merit badge counselor.
Who can earn merit badges?
Merit badges can be earned by registered Scouts BSA members, including Lone Scouts, and by qualified Venturers or Sea Scouts who are not yet 18 years old. Venturers and Sea Scouts qualify by achieving First Class rank as a Scout or Lone Scout.
What else is new in the world of merit badges?
The Aviation merit badge is the first merit badge to get its own digital resource guide. Click here to learn more.
The Scouts BSA Test Lab is a way for Scouts and adults to try out new potential merit badges, report back on their experiences and, in the process, help shape the future of Scouting. Click here to learn more.
Additionally, the Scouts BSA team is hard at work on merit badges covering artificial intelligence and cybersecurity.
Bookmark the merit badge hub, and check back regularly for the latest updates.
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