How to Become a Merit Badge Counsellor

• Complete the Scouting America Registration steps at https://my.scouting.org/VES/OnlineReg/1.0.0/?tu=UF-MB-023b02. Note that even if you have an existing registration (with the Troop), you still need to complete this step as Scouts BSA requires a separate application for the Merit Badge Counsellor position. If you have an existing Troop 284 registration you will be prompted with the question:

WarningOur records indicate that you already have an active registration with Troop 0284. If your intention is to transfer from Troop 0284 to this one, please click "Transfer" to proceed with the application. If you wish to be registered in both units simultaneously, click the "Continue" button to finish this application.

• Despite the confusing verbiage the correct answer to this prompt is 'Continue'
• Complete the "Scouts BSA - Merit Badge Counselor Position Specific Training" at https://training.scouting.org/learning-plans/1188
• Once done, your completions will show up here: https://my.scouting.org/tools/my-training/requirements You can "Print Certificate" and download the certificates -- you will need them in the next step.
• Complete a Merit Badge Counsellor application here: https://goldengatescouting.org/mb-counselor-application/ Our District is Briones. You will need your BSA Member ID number. The detail you provide in the 'Qualifications' field can be brief -- its generally enough to state that you have a personal or professional interest in the topics covered by the Badges you select.
• Email troop284meritbadges@gmail.com to let us know about your application. We then have to wait for your MB status to be updated.
• Once your Merit Badges are approved, they should flow through to our Troop Roster.