Eagle scout requirements
Eagle Scout was created in 1911. This prestigious rank is widely recognized throughout the United States and around the globe. The Eagle Scout rank is notable for astronauts, service personnel, senators and other Americans.
2019 saw girls gain the opportunity to join Scouts BSA, earning Eagle rank. Nearly 1,000 young girls and women were the first female Eagle Scouts to be enrolled in Scouts BSA in February 2021. This historic achievement was celebrated via a virtual ceremony.
Eagle Scout Requirements
To become an Eagle Scout, you must persevere and work hard. Scouts must earn all ranks, starting with Scout. Here is a list of activities the Scout will do on their journey toward Eagle Scout.
- As a Life Scout, you must be active in the troop for at least six months
- Demonstrate devotion to Scout Oath 3
- Refer to family, work, church and other community members for references
- Earn 21 merit badges
- Minimum of six months in a leadership role 1
- Plan, propose, and execute an Eagle service project
- Scoutmaster Conference
- Pass a board for review
This is a daunting task for most teenagers. It’s not common for teens to earn the Eagle rank status. Only 8% of Scouts achieved it in 2019. 4 Others recognize the positive impact the award can have on their lives. Their parents or Scoutmasters support some. It is a family tradition for some teenagers.
Eagle Scout Benefits
Eagle Scouts have demonstrated the Scout BSA values of trustworthiness and loyalty, helpfulness in helping others, friendliness, kindness, obedience, cheerfulness, thriftiness, bravery, cleanliness, reverence, and friendliness. Eagle Scouts are strong characters because they live by the Scout Law. These qualities will benefit them in all aspects of their lives, including as a parent, partners, employees and community leader.
Eagle Scouts value perseverance and discipline. They also value leadership, accountability, leadership, motivation, and achievement. These qualities lead to tangible rewards such as:
- College admissions – Admissions officers recognize this award and consider it when making decisions. Although it won’t make up for bad grades, being an Eagle Scout can give an applicant an advantage. Although officers might not be familiarized with the Scouts BSA Eagle Scout rank, they should recognize it.
- Scholarships: Eagle Scouts may be eligible for numerous scholarships. Unigo, an online network for college students, provides a list of Eagle Scout-only scholarships.
- Military rank – Eagle Scouts can enter the military at a higher rank than other members.
- Career Many job recruiters are looking for “Eagle Scout” and the positive traits that this achievement represents.
The Eagle Scout rank can lead to employment opportunities throughout your life. It’s often the most important high school achievement that an applicant lists on a resume, regardless of age.
Most Frequently Asked Questions
How can you include Eagle Scout on your resume?
Your resume should include the title Eagle Scout at the top of the extracurricular achievements section. Below it, add bullet points about your Eagle Scout service projects, your leadership roles, and Scout-related information relevant to the job you are applying for.
Which Eagle Scout was the president of the United States?
Gerald Ford is the only U.S. president to have achieved Eagle Scout rank. 5 He described receiving the award as “one of my proudest moments in my life.”
What is the importance of an Eagle Scout award to college?
The Eagle Scout is an extraordinary achievement that most college admissions officers consider a major plus. This can give the Scout an edge over other applicants.
Why is Eagle Scouting important?
Hard work, dedication, service, and sacrifice make Eagle Scouting so important. It provides teens with something to aim for, inspires leadership and encourages a sense of community. These skills can be transferred into college, careers, and life after graduation.
What is the equivalent of Eagle Scout for Girl Scouts?
The Girl Scout Gold Award, the highest award in the Girl Scouts of the USA, is equivalent to the Eagle Scout rank in Scouts BSA. The Scout can apply for scholarships and be ranked higher in the military. They will also be able to stand out from other job and college applicants.
A word from Verywell
Scouts who become Eagle Scouts are part of a group that shares a common commitment to the ideals and principles of Scouting. These ideals instill confidence in Eagle Scouts and provide the foundation for leadership, service and community. These qualities serve Eagle Scouts from their teen years onwards and are carried through every stage of their lives.
