What is the Test Lab?

The Scouts BSA Test Lab is an exciting way to help in the development of fun and interesting new topics unique to the Scouts BSA program. The requirements for each badge have the look and feel of merit badges, but instead of a printed pamphlet, you will find links to digital resources to help you complete the requirements.

What to do

You must work with a registered adult volunteer of your choosing. After completion of all requirements, you must take a short survey which will lead you to a certificate of completion.

 If enough surveys show Scouts enjoyed these potential new badges, we hope to introduce them as official merit badges in the future. If you complete a Test Lab badge and it becomes an official merit badge, you will be credited with having earned that badge!

 Keep logging in to this page to see what new topics are added as each badge will have a test lab expiration date.

Test Lab Rules

• 1 Any registered adult can work with Scouts on these potential new badges.

• 2 Badges will have a clearly stated time period by which all requirements must be completed.

• 3 After the expiration date, the badge will be removed from the Test Lab and the National Council will evaluate if the subject should be added as a new merit badge.

• 4 When all requirements are finished successfully, a survey will be available to gather opinions on the badge. Scouts will then be able to access the certificate of completion which must be signed and dated by the registered adult they have worked with.

• 5 Should the badge be approved as a new merit badge, Scouts can be credited as having earned that badge if they present their signed and dated certificate to their unit.

• 6 Scouts completing the requirements after the expired time period will not be recognized as having earned the badge.

Please send any questions regarding the Scouts BSA Test Lab to testlab@scouting.org.

Ready to Enter the Test Lab

Scouts can complete these requirements in order to provide feedback and receive a certificate

You decide if this activity becomes an official Merit Badge of Scouting America.  By filling out the survey, you vote for or against this becoming a Merit Badge.  You can also suggest changes to make the merit badge more engaging.  The fate of this potential merit badge rests in your hands.  Come back and complete the survey after you finish the requirements to make your voice heard and to get your certificate of completion.

Auctioneering
Wildland Fire Management 

Life Skills

Physics

Sewing and Needlework