GUIDANCE FOR SCOUTS ATTENDING THE MERIT BADGE COLLEGE

The Merit Badge College is an opportunity to learn from subject matter experts in career or lifelong hobby subjects.

1. Pick a Merit Badge: From the Course Catalog, you can select a number of Merit Badges that you have an interest in taking. We expect that you will talk to your Scoutmaster and parents about which badge to take. But in the end, we expect you to select a topic that you truly wish to learn about. Don't let rank advancement be the only consideration.
    
2. Consider Your Age: While there is not an age or grade requirement for any merit badge, certain classes at the MBC are recommended for older Scouts. In the short duration of a single day, the nature and amount of material covered in these classes will possibly make it difficult for a younger Scout to keep up. This can slow the pace of the class and the class will not complete in the intended material. This may also cause the younger scout to get frustrated or anxious. We want you to enjoy what you do here so you will do it well. Please double check the courses you are considering by referring to the Difficulty Level Document.
    
3. Getting Ready for MBC Day (Read the book) / Complete the Worksheet!: OK. So, you have selected your badges and registered online. Congratulations! The next thing that you should do, if you have not already done so, is to get a copy of the Merit Badge pamphlet for yourself. You should read through the pamphlet so that you are completely familiar with it. In fact you may want to read it through more than once. (Read the book.) We do not guarantee that you will complete any badge. Many MB classes will have published a list of pre-requisites. These are requirements that you must complete by March 16th. When you complete them, bring all material to class with you such as notes, pictures, writings, reports, letters. (Read the book.) It is up to you to make sure that you complete every requirement. Some requirements may by their nature not be doable in a classroom. (Read the book.) You should at least attempt to complete these before the MBC. If you can do this, then you will get the most out of the workshop. Again, worksheets for each Merit Badge prerequisite item must be completed before arrival at the Merit Badge College – Worksheets are available at http://usscouts.org/mb/worksheets/list.asp
    
4. Blue Merit Badge Cards: Before the MBC, you should fill out the card with your name, address, Merit Badge and Troop information. Your Scoutmaster should sign this card indicating that they approve you taking the class. Keep it safe. You must have with you a Merit Badge Card for every badge. This card will be the ONLY record of your achievement at the MBC. Counselors are not required to keep records. Most will, but some will not. You are responsible for your card. Keep it safe.
    
5. ON MBC Day LEARN and ACHIEVE: PROPER SCOUT BEHAVIOR IS EXPECTED. EACH SCOUT IS AN AMBASSADOR TO THE HOST SCHOOL.

Download the Merit Badge Course Catalog Here

Download the Merit badge Course Schedule Here