<P> The award of a merit badge is represented by circular patch with an image representing the badge's topic . The patches for the Eagle - required merit badges are distinguishable by the silver ring on the outside edge . Merit badges are displayed on a sash which can be worn with the Boy Scout uniform on formal occasions . Every year the National Council reviews and updates a certain number of merit badges . There are over 100 merit badges . </P> <P> Scouting organizations in other countries issue or have issued merit badges, including Canada, Indonesia, Japan, Spain, Thailand, and the United Kingdom . Austria has a program similar to merit badges for certain age groups . </P> <P> The current requirements for Eagle Scout, the highest rank in Boy Scouting, involve earning 21 merit badges including 13 from this list: </P> <Ul> <Li> Camping </Li> <Li> Citizenship in the Community . </Li> <Li> Citizenship in the Nation . </Li> <Li> Citizenship in the World . </Li> <Li> Communications </Li> <Li> Cooking . </Li> <Li> Lifesaving or Emergency Preparedness . </Li> <Li> Environmental Science or Sustainability . </Li> <Li> Family Life . </Li> <Li> First Aid . </Li> <Li> Personal Fitness . </Li> <Li> Personal Management </Li> <Li> Swimming, Hiking, or Cycling . </Li> </Ul>

How many merit badges do you need for eagle scout