Eagle Scout Service Project

Updated: August 2, 2025

Your Eagle Scout Service Project is one of the most well-known and prominent sections on the trail to Eagle. Most individuals in public do not know how many merit badges it takes to become an Eagle Scout but are aware of the Service Project portion of the requirements.

Remember… Anyone can do a service project; not everyone can plan, execute, and lead one

Eagle Project

Five tests of an Acceptable Eagle Scout Service Project:

• 1. Sufficient opportunity to meet the requirement.

  2. Appears to be feasible.

  3. Safety issues will be addressed. 

  4. Action steps fore further detailed planning are included.

  5. The Eagle candidate has a reasonable change for a positive experience.

Elements of an Eagle Project

The Eagle Scout Service Project Workbook (February 2023 printing) is your guide to completing your Eagle Project.  The workbook is set up for success, be sure to follow all the steps and read all the instructions.

• Go to the BSA website and follow the instructions for downloading the pdf file containing the Workbook: Eagle Scout Service Project Workbook
  BSA requires Eagle Scout candidates to use the official Eagle Scout Service Project Workbook.

• Click the "Save"  button on the ADOBE ACROBAT FILE and save to your computer   Every time you update your file - SAVE IT!  USE ADOBE ACROBAT ONLY to fill out the workbook – text only. If you need extra space for your description, along with any drawings, sketches, photographs, etc., create a separate document (i.e. word or excel). Keep all this documentation in a folder.  These will be submitted as attachments to the email.

• Read through the whole document paying particular attention to pages 2 through 5 and the section titled ‘Navigating the Eagle Scout Service Project’ at the end of the document. Now, repeat the process with your parents!

Project Proposal

• Contact Page must be filled out completely - not completed - NO proposal review

  1. 1. Make sure to send your FULL workbook and signature page showing wet signatures to the Eagle Coordinator (that's me) as an attachment to the email.  (DO NOT merge documents into your workbook)

• Details. Details Include photos and schematic drawings/plans

• Signatures required - you must have wet signatures

  1. Scout (Eagle Candidate)

  2. Beneficiary

  3. Scoutmaster/Unit Leader

  4. Committee Chair

  5. TV District Eagle Review Coordinator which includes review

• Beneficiary guidelines are here

  1. NO Fundraising allowed before your proposal is signed off

  2. SEND our your letters of recommendation while waiting for your waiting for the proposal to be signed off.

Project Final Plan

It’s time to tackle this section of your workbook and check in with your advisors and beneficiary as needed.

• Once the District Coordinator has approved your proposal, you may proceed.

• You now can start your FUNDRAISING

• Begin by completing the next section of the Workbook – The Service Project Plan. While all elements are important, pay particular attention to Safety and Resource planning.

• Review your project plan with your Advisor as it evolves.

• Review your project plan with your Beneficiary as they can cancel at any time.

• Review your plan with your Unit as Unit Leaders are responsible for adherence to BSA policies such as SAFE Project Tool Use and SAFE Project Planning Checklist.

• When your Advisor approves it, you’re ready, schedule the project work.

Remember, you are the PROJECT LEADER. Make sure everyone understands that – especially adults! 

• Details. Details. Details. Include photos, drawings, scheduled, detailed plans.

Project Fundraising 

In some cases, you will need a friend or two to donate materials or money during your project.

• The Guide to Advancement section 9.0.2.10 is the primary source of information related to Fundraising Issues.

• The Service Project Workbook defines two categories of contributors. The fundraising application form is not necessary for this Exempt Group:

  • The candidate, their parents or relatives, the Unit or it’s Chartered Organization, the Unit’s Parents or Members, or the Beneficiary.