Merit Badge Counselors

Merit badges are a key advancement tool in the Boy Scouts of America. They measure the abilities and hard work of Scouts through goal setting, objectives and life skills.

Scouts and counselors should read the Introduction to Merit Badges.   Be sure to check TroopMaster Web for a current list of Merit Badge Counselors!

Being a Merit Badge Counselor means you will meet with a minimum of two Scouts in your area every time they want to obtain a merit badge within your expertise. You will guide the Scout through the requirements, helping and mentoring the Scout through the process.   If you have an area of expertise like basket-weaving, a profession like aviation or engineering, or a life skill like cooking or communications, you could become a valuable asset to a Scout's development by becoming a merit badge counselor.

 Merit Badge Counselor Requirements and Registration 

To qualify as a merit badge counselor, a volunteer must:

• Register annually with the Boy Scouts of America.

• Be at least 18 years old.

• Be of good character.

• Be proficient in the merit badge subject by vocation, avocation, or special training.

• Be able to work with Scout-age youth.

• Be approved by the district/council advancement committee. 

To register with the Boy Scouts of America, a potential merit badge counselor must complete the BSA's Adult Application form (No. 28-501Y; available in Spanish as No. 28-502S) and submit it along with the BSA Merit Badge Counselor Information form (No. 34405) to the BSA local council office. Renewal of this registration annually is necessary to continue as a merit badge counselor.  Youth Protection training is required for all BSA Troop 163 Merit Badge Counselors.  

A current list of Merit Badge Counselors can be found in Forms & Information.

Eagle required Merit Badge Counselors are below: