Walter Is It Hard to Become an Eagle Scout?

For those who join Scouts BSA, becoming an Eagle Scout means that they have achieved the highest rank possible. On the path to Eagle Scout status, young men learn many important life skills. Is it hard to become an Eagle Scout? Achieving this level requires hard work and preparation.

Walter Gefrom is a Project Manager and Civil Engineer who has served the Scouts BSA as Cub Master and Assistant Scoutmaster. Today he shares the steps to become an Eagle Scout.

• Children should join Scouts as soon as they are old enough (10 years) in order to have plenty of time to complete the requirements for Eagle Scouts before they are 18.
• Scouts should become well-acquainted with their Scout Handbook, as this contains all the information needed to advance to Eagle Scout.
• Earn merit badges an advance in the ranks. The ranks consist of Scout, Tenderfoot, Second Class, First Class, Star, and Life Ranks. During this time, Scouts learn skills such as first aid, cooking, navigation, leadership, citizenship, and more.
• Scouts have to serve in the Life Rank for six months.
• Earn 21 merit badges in total. Many of these have to be in certain categories.
• Scouts will then have to serve in a leadership role, attend a Scoutmaster conference, and complete a service project.