Merit badges are awards earned by members of Scouting America, based on activities within the area of study by completing a list of periodically updated requirements.

[1] The purpose of the merit badge program is to allow Scouts to examine subjects to determine if they would like to further pursue them as a career or vocation.

Increasingly, though, merit badges are earned in a class setting at troop meetings and summer camps.

Merit badges required for Eagle rank can be selected based upon the individual Scout's preferences or conditions.

Merit badges are displayed on a sash which can be worn with the Boy Scout uniform on formal occasions.