An Eagle Scout Recommendation Letter is a formal endorsement written to support a Boy Scouts of America (BSA) candidate seeking to achieve the rank of Eagle Scout — the highest advancement rank in the Scouting program. This letter is submitted as part of the Eagle Scout Board of Review process and is a required component of the Eagle Scout Service Project Workbook and application under BSA Advancement Guidelines.

The Eagle Scout rank requires a candidate to earn a minimum of 21 merit badges (including 13 Eagle-required badges), demonstrate leadership in their troop, and complete a substantial community service project. The recommendation letters provide the Board of Review with third-party assessments of the candidate's character, leadership abilities, and commitment to the Scout Oath and Scout Law. Under BSA national policy, candidates must submit references from specific categories: a religious or faith leader, an educational reference, an employer (if applicable), and two additional references.

These letters carry weight beyond the immediate Scouting context. Eagle Scout status is recognized by the U.S. military — 10 U.S.C. Section 12209 allows Eagle Scouts who enlist to enter at a higher pay grade (E-2 or E-3 depending on the branch). Many colleges consider Eagle Scout achievement in admissions, and numerous Eagle Scout scholarships exist. The recommendation letter, therefore, contributes to a credential that has lasting implications for the candidate's educational and career trajectory.

Eagle Scout recommendation letters are needed when a Scout has completed all requirements for Eagle rank and is preparing their application for the Eagle Scout Board of Review. This typically occurs between ages 15 and 17, though candidates must complete the process before their 18th birthday under BSA rules. The candidate's Scoutmaster will notify references when the application is being assembled.

The BSA requires recommendation letters from at least five references spanning different areas of the candidate's life. A parent or guardian provides one reference. A religious or faith institution leader — such as a pastor, rabbi, or imam — provides another. An educational reference from a teacher, principal, or school counselor is required. If the candidate has been employed, an employer reference is needed. Two additional references from individuals who know the candidate personally complete the requirement.

Letters are also needed when an Eagle Scout candidate applies for the Eagle Scout medal with palms (additional recognition for merit badges beyond 21), or when applying for Eagle Scout scholarships from organizations like the National Eagle Scout Association. Some candidates request additional recommendation letters for college applications that specifically highlight their Eagle Scout achievement. Starting the letter request process at least three to four weeks before the Board of Review date gives recommenders adequate time to write thoughtful, detailed letters.

An Eagle Scout recommendation letter must clearly identify the writer and their relationship to the candidate — how long they have known the Scout, in what capacity, and how frequently they have observed the candidate's conduct and character. The Board of Review gives more weight to references who have substantial firsthand experience with the candidate.

The letter should address the candidate's embodiment of the Scout Oath (duty to God and country, helping others, physical and moral fitness) and the twelve points of the Scout Law: trustworthy, loyal, helpful, friendly, courteous, kind, obedient, cheerful, thrifty, brave, clean, and reverent. Rather than listing these qualities abstractly, the writer should provide specific examples — describing how the candidate demonstrated leadership during a camping trip, organized a fundraiser, or helped a community member in need.

Discussion of the candidate's Eagle Scout Service Project adds significant value. If the writer observed or participated in the project, they should describe the scope of work, the candidate's planning and leadership, and the project's impact on the community. The letter should also address the candidate's growth over their Scouting career, noting how they have matured and developed as a leader.

The closing should include an explicit endorsement of the candidate's readiness for Eagle Scout rank. The writer's full name, contact information, and signature are required. The letter should be addressed to the Eagle Scout Board of Review of the candidate's council and troop. Keeping the letter to one page is standard practice, and it should be printed on professional or organizational letterhead when possible.