Frequently Asked Questions

Girl Scouts of the USA is the largest organization for girls in the world. Our mission is to build girls of courage, confidence and character, who make the world a better place. Through activities in science and technology, business and economic literacy, and outdoor and environmental awareness, Girl Scouting provides girls with opportunities for fun and friendship, while fostering the development of leadership skills and self-esteem.

What is the mission of Girl Scouts? toggle arrow

The mission of the Girl Scouts is to build girls of courage, confidence, and character, who make the world a better place. Grounded in the Girl Scout Promise and Law, Girl Scouting is a non-formal, experiential, and cooperative education program that promotes girls’ personal growth and leadership development.

Why should my daughter be a Girl Scout? toggle arrow

Most girls join a local troop or group for fun and friendship, but they also find out about building character and self-esteem and serving their communities—the core qualities of Girl Scouting. In Girl Scouts, girls find a safe place to grow and share new experiences, learn to relate to others, develop values, and contribute to society.

Studies have also shown Girl Scout Alumna are more sense of self, are confident, go further in education and more. To learn more about the Girl Scout Alumna research, click here.

How much does it cost to be a Girl Scout? toggle arrow

Girl Scouts is a great value! As of April 1, 2026, membership fees for the 2027 Girl Scout year will be $65 per girl and $30 per adult, plus additional program fees for some of the activities your girl may want to participate in. Of course, we don’t want fees to be a barrier, so don’t hesitate to apply for financial assistance.

Do I have to buy a uniform? toggle arrow

In order for your girl to have the best experience, we suggest obtaining a sash or vest, a membership pin, and her troop numbers! We also have great starter kits that will have everything needed for her to begin her Girl Scout experience!

How old do you have to be? toggle arrow

Girls can register from Kindergarten through 12th grade. The program levels break up by grades. These levels are: Daisy (K-1st), Brownie (2nd-3rd), Junior (4th-5th), Cadette (6th-8th), Senior (9th-10th), Ambassador (11th-12th).

Adults (both male and female) can also become members and work with Girl Scouts as an Adult Member.

My daughter's schedule doesn't permit her to belong to a troop. Can she still earn badges and awards? toggle arrow

Absolutely! Juliette Girl Scouts are girls that join Girl Scouting independent of a Troop. Any girl in grades K-12 can become a Juliette Girl Scout. The group is named after Juliette Gordon Low, founder of the Girl Scouts. Girls may become Juliettes because:

They may live in towns or neighborhoods where there are no troops or groups.
They may have been troop members at one time, but their troop no longer meets. Perhaps their previous troop leader moved away or chose not to volunteer for another year.
They–or their parents–may have other activities that make it difficult to attend troop meetings.

Is financial assistance available? toggle arrow

Absolutely! You can apply for Financial Assistance here.

Can fathers be troop leaders? toggle arrow

Of course! We encourage parents and community individuals to get involved with Girl Scouts, and troop leaders are always needed! As long as you pass the background check and complete the correct paperwork, you can be a troop leader.

What is Girl Scouts' relationship to the World Association of Girl Guides and Girl Scouts? toggle arrow

The World Association of Girl Guides and Girl Scouts are comprised of 145 Girl Scout and Girl Guide member organizations, including Girl Scouts of the USA. As a member of the World Association, Girl Scouts of the USA works in collaboration with the World Bureau and sister Member Organizations throughout the world to encourage girls and young women to develop their full potential as responsible citizens. Each Member Organization creates its own programs and pursues efforts based on the needs and issues affecting girls in their individual countries.