Chess and the Trail to Eagle
Chess is an elective merit badge. It is not required for any rank, but it can count as one of the 8 elective badges a scout needs for Eagle, alongside the 13 Eagle-required badges. Elective badges are also where most scouts discover hobbies and careers, so choose ones you are genuinely curious about. Browse the complete merit badge list to compare options.
Chess Merit Badge Requirements
Summary of the 7 main requirements for Chess. Always confirm the exact wording with your counselor or the current official BSA requirements.
- 1
Discuss with your counselor the history of the game of chess.
- 2
Discuss the name of each chess piece, how to set up a chessboard, and how each piece moves.
- 3
Demonstrate scorekeeping using the algebraic system of chess notation.
- 4
Discuss with your counselor four opening principles.
- 5
Explain what a combination is, and demonstrate at least two combinations.
- 6
Solve five mate-in-one problems and three mate-in-two problems.
- 7
Play at least three games of chess with other Scouts and/or your counselor.
Merit badge names and emblems are trademarks of Scouting America (Boy Scouts of America). Eagle Compass is an independent tool and is not affiliated with or endorsed by Scouting America. Requirements are summarized for planning purposes; the official requirements are authoritative.
How to Earn the Chess Merit Badge
1. Get a blue card and a counselor
Ask your Scoutmaster for approval to start Chess, then find a registered merit badge counselor for it through your troop or council.
2. Plan around the setting
Chess is usually earned on your own with a counselor. Schedule regular check-ins with your counselor so partial progress does not stall.
3. Budget the time
Expect about a month for a moderate badge like this one. Working with a partner or at a merit badge clinic can shorten it.
4. Track every requirement
Keep notes as you complete each item so your counselor can sign off without re-doing work. Eagle Compass tracks all 7 Chess requirements for you.
Chess Merit Badge FAQ
Is the Chess merit badge required for Eagle Scout?
No. Chess is an elective merit badge. It can count as one of the 8 elective badges needed for Eagle Scout, alongside the 13 Eagle-required badges.
How long does the Chess merit badge take?
Most scouts finish Chess in about a month, depending on counselor availability and how the requirements are scheduled.
Where do scouts usually earn the Chess merit badge?
Chess is most often earned on your own with a counselor. Any registered merit badge counselor for Chess can sign off requirements.
How many requirements does the Chess merit badge have?
Chess has 7 main requirements, for 7 items in total.
