The Trail to Eagle Scout
Congratulations on earning the rank of Life Scout. You are among approximately 55,000 youth who year after year, achieve that important milestone. As you ponder the meaning behind the Life patch, you are encouraged to think about the symbol of the heart. Historically in Scouting, it was a fitting symbol of health and fitness, but it also represents the spirit of caring and giving that is behind the Eagle Scout service project.
Service to other people is what Scouting is all about. In many ways, your service project reflects who you are as a youth leader. Your result should be of significant impact in your community to be special, and should represent your very best effort.
Your proposal, the logical first step, should emphasize your intention to give leadership to others through proper planning and development. Communicate with the beneficiary often to ensure the project meets the organization’s needs once it is completed.
We encourage you to seek guidance from your unit leader and project coach as you need help. Your Eagle Scout Service Project Workbook, much like a compass, will help navigate your way to a life of service as a proud Eagle Scout.
Keep scrolling further down this page for information about scholarships available to Scouts
Scholarships
We all know A Scout is Thrifty, but are you aware of the many scholarships available to Eagle Scouts? Below are some of the awards available through the National Eagle Scout Association (NESA). Keep an eye on on the submission deadlines.
Some scholarships are part of the Glenn A. and Melinda W. Adams Eagle Scout Service Project of the Year awards.
Other scholarships Eagle Scouts who meet certain eligibility requirements can apply for include:
Lawrence S. and Mabel Cooke Scholarship
One scholarship of up to $48,000 (up to $12,000 per year for four years) and four $25,000 scholarships (up to $6,250 a year for four years) awarded annually to an Eagle Scout who has shown academic performance, financial need and active participation in school and Scouting activities. Established by Lawrence S. Cooke in memory of his late wife, Mabel Cooke.
National Eagle Scout Association Scholarship
$5,000 scholarships awarded on a regional basis to Eagle Scouts who have shown active participation in school, Scouting activities and community service.
Hall/McElwain Scholarship
$5,000 scholarships awarded on a regional basis to Eagle Scouts who have shown active participation in school, Scouting activities and community service.
Palmer Scholarship
Three $2,500 scholarships awarded to Eagle Scouts who have shown active participation in school, Scouting activities and community service.
Sons of the American Revolution Scholarship
The Sons of the American Revolution invite all BSA-registered Eagle Scouts in the Transatlantic Council to apply for the SAR King Eagle Scout Contest which gives away over $25,000 in prize money every year. The top prize is $10,000. For more information, see https://www.sar.org/wp-content/uploads/2023/03/ESC_GermanySAR_TAC.pdf
The application window for scholarships this year will open in December. At that time, check the National Eagle Scout Association website to find applications.
Click here for other Scouting related Scholarships available to Scouts, Venture Scouts, and members of the Order of the Arrow.
Some additional scholarships and awards are available through the American Legion and VFW. Don’t miss these opportunities for recognition!
