Scouting America's Test Lab
The Scouts BSA Test Lab is an exciting way to help in the development of fun and interesting new topics unique to the Scouts BSA program. The requirements for each badge have the look and feel of merit badges, but instead of a printed pamphlet, you will find links to digital resources to help you complete the requirements.
What to do
You must work with a registered adult volunteer of your choosing. After completion of all requirements, you must take a short survey which will lead you to a certificate of completion.
If enough surveys show Scouts enjoyed these potential new badges, we hope to introduce them as official merit badges in the future. If you complete a Test Lab badge and it becomes an official merit badge, you will be credited with having earned that badge!
You decide if this activity becomes an official Merit Badge of Scouting America. By filling out the survey at the end of the requirements, you are voting for or against that topic becoming a Merit Badge. You can also suggest changes to make the merit badge more engaging. The fate of this potential merit badge rests in your hands.
Test Lab Rules
- Any registered adult can work with Scouts on these potential new badges.
- Badges will have a clearly stated time period by which all requirements must be completed.
- After the expiration date, the badge will be removed from the Test Lab and the National Council will evaluate if the subject should be added as a new merit badge.
- When all requirements are finished successfully, a survey will be available to gather opinions on the badge. Scouts will then be able to access the certificate of completion which must be signed and dated by the registered adult they have worked with.
- Should the badge be approved as a new merit badge, Scouts can be credited as having earned that badge if they present their signed and dated certificate to their unit.
- Scouts completing the requirements after the expired time period will not be recognized as having earned the badge.
