Requirement · part of 5.0.4.0. If Life rank is established, merit badges can be credited too

5.0.4.0. On previous effort that meets the requirements as written

Required May not apply

This may not apply to you. You have not answered "Where did the advancement come from?" yet. Answer it and this step will either settle or drop off.

The badges that may be awarded are those whose Scouting America requirements are met, as written, by previous effort and experience. It is a comparison against the actual requirements, not a rough equivalence between programmes.

Where this step comes from

Guide to Advancement (2025), Section 5.0.4.0 · Based on previous effort and experiences that meet Scouting America merit badge requirements as written.