How many Boy Scout merit badges are there?

More than 130

The main idea about merit badges is that you can learn about sports, crafts, science, trades, business, even about future careers as you earn merit badges. Keep in mind that there are more than 130 merit badges.  The great part is that any Boy Scout may earn a merit badge at any time.  Believe it or not, you don’t need to have had rank advancement to be eligible.  Here are some potential merit badge subjects: American Business, Bugling, Architecture, Art, Camping, Canoeing, Bird Study, Archery, Communication, Collections, etc.