Rank Advancements
BSA says it best: "Scouting provides a series of surmountable obstacles and steps in overcoming them through the advancement method. Scouts plan their own advancement and progress at their own pace as they meet each challenge. Scouts are recognized and rewarded for each achievement, which helps them gain self-confidence. The steps in the advancement system help a Scout grow in self-reliance and in the ability to help others.
Advancement is the process by which youth members of the Boy Scouts of America progress from rank to rank and is the method by which we promote and encourage the ongoing involvement and commitment that keeps members coming back for more. It works best when it is built into a unit’s program so that simply participating leads to meaningful achievement and recognition—and to a continually improving readiness for more complex experiences."
​
Eagle Scout Required Merit Badges
From the Scouting BSA Handbook:
Earn a total of 21 merit badges (10 more than you already have), including the following:
, and
Only list one merit badge from items g, h, and j. If you earned more than one of the badges listed in items g, h, or j, choose one to meet this requirement and list the remaining badges as electives to make your total of 21.