The Eagle Scout Rank: A Century of Excellence

Eagle Scout is the highest rank attainable in Scouting America (formerly known as Boy Scouts of America) and represents a pinnacle of achievement in the Scouting program. Established over a century ago, the title of Eagle Scout is recognized nationwide as a symbol of leadership, service, and dedication.

Earning the Eagle rank is a rare and distinguished honor—only about 4% of Scouts achieve it. The journey requires years of commitment, personal growth, and community engagement. The comprehensive and rigorous application and review process ensures the integrity and prestige of the award remain strong to this day.

Scouts who pursue the Eagle rank must meet a number of challenging requirements, including:

Earning at least 21 merit badges, many of which cover essential life skills and community awareness
Demonstrating Scout Spirit by living according to the principles of the Scout Oath and Law
Exhibiting leadership in their troop and community
Planning, developing, and leading an extensive service project that benefits others.

The Eagle Scout service project is one of the most iconic elements of the journey. It reflects a Scout’s ability to take initiative, manage a team, and give back to the community in a meaningful and lasting way.

Upon earning the rank, Eagle Scouts are awarded a medal and badge as symbols of their accomplishment. Those who continue to serve and grow within the program may also earn Eagle Palms, recognizing additional leadership, tenure, and merit badge achievements beyond the initial 21 required.

Since 2019, Scouting America has been open to all youth, and the Eagle Scout rank remains an opportunity available to every Scout who commits themselves to the challenge. Achieving Eagle is not just a personal milestone—it’s a mark of readiness to lead and serve our communities and nation.

Eagle Scout is the highest rank attainable in Scouting America (formerly known as Boy Scouts of America) and represents a pinnacle of achievement in the Scouting program. Established over a century ago, the title of Eagle Scout is recognized nationwide as a symbol of leadership, service, and dedication.

Earning the Eagle rank is a rare and distinguished honor—only about 4% of Scouts achieve it. The journey requires years of commitment, personal growth, and community engagement. The comprehensive and rigorous application and review process ensures the integrity and prestige of the award remain strong to this day.

Scouts who pursue the Eagle rank must meet a number of challenging requirements, including:

Earning at least 21 merit badges, many of which cover essential life skills and community awareness
Demonstrating Scout Spirit by living according to the principles of the Scout Oath and Law
Exhibiting leadership in their troop and community
Planning, developing, and leading an extensive service project that benefits others.

The Eagle Scout service project is one of the most iconic elements of the journey. It reflects a Scout’s ability to take initiative, manage a team, and give back to the community in a meaningful and lasting way.

Upon earning the rank, Eagle Scouts are awarded a medal and badge as symbols of their accomplishment. Those who continue to serve and grow within the program may also earn Eagle Palms, recognizing additional leadership, tenure, and merit badge achievements beyond the initial 21 required.

Since 2019, Scouting America has been open to all youth, and the Eagle Scout rank remains an opportunity available to every Scout who commits themselves to the challenge. Achieving Eagle is not just a personal milestone—it’s a mark of readiness to lead and serve our communities and nation.