Eagle Required Merit Badges

To earn the Eagle Scout rank, a Scout must earn a total of 21 merit badges, including 14 specific required badges: 10 that every Eagle Scout must earn, plus one from each of 3 “choose one” groups.

Looking for advice on 90-day time locks, choice groups, and long-term pacing? Read our Eagle Scout Merit Badge Strategy & Planning Guide.

Required Badges

All 10 of these merit badges are required.

Choose One from Each Group

Earn one merit badge from each of the following groups.

Emergency Preparedness or Lifesaving

Environmental Science or Sustainability

Cycling, Hiking, or Swimming