ASVAB Score FAQ

The ASVAB (Armed Services Vocational Aptitude Battery) is a test for the US military that provides vital information about your aptitudes. If you are interested in joining the military, then it’s important to know what this test covers and how well you need to do on it. This article will answer questions like “What is the maximum score of the ASVAB?” and “What are composite scores?” so read on to learn more!

How high can you score on the ASVAB?

The maximum ASVAB score is 99, so you want to aim for the highest possible score.

What are the prerequisites to taking the ASVAB test?

There are no prerequisites for taking the test. The only requirement is that you need a valid social security number and a state-issued ID card or driver’s license so they can run your criminal background check.

What are ASVAB composite scores?

The ASVAB test results are shown on a series of four tests called the “subtests”. The scores from these subtests can be combined into an overall score known as your composite. Composite scores range from 0-99; however, it’s important to note that no one gets a perfect 100 for their test! Instead, you are given a percentile ranking that tells you what percent of people in the country scored lower than you.

What is an ASVAB GT score?

Students who are still in High School take a shortened version of the Armed Services Vocational Aptitude Battery (ASVAB) test. This shorter form called the General Technical Test (GT) isn’t divided into subtests and only covers Word Knowledge and Paragraph Comprehension from Arithmetic Reasoning; however, it doesn’t have any Mathematics knowledge sections like the regular ASVAB does which means there’s no need for Algebra or Geometry to answer questions correctly. If you’re taking this version then your AFQT percentile score will be based on how well you do on just two subtest areas: Word Knowledge & Paragraph Comprehension.

How is your ASVAB score calculated?

Your AFQT score on the ASVAB determines your eligibility for military service. Your scores from each of the multiple-choice subtests are added together to get an overall composite or “overall pick” score that determines what job(s) you qualify for in the military. Composite scores range between 0 and 99, with 99 being a perfect match.

What are the ASVAB score requirements for the different military branches?

There are four branches of the US military, but each one has its own ASVAB score requirements because they have different standards for recruits.

Army

To enlist in the Army, you must receive a minimum score of 31 on the ASVAB. The maximum possible is 99 and each job has its own code called Military Occupational Specialty (MOS) with different requirements for scores.

You’ll need at least a 35 on the ASVAB, but there are various Navy job codes that require different minimum scores.

Air Force

The Air Force has a high minimum enlistment score requirement. You need to have either a 31 or 50 on the ASVAB, depending on if you are in High School Senior, or Graduated from High school.

Marines

The Marine Corps has a variety of jobs, each with its own score requirement on the ASVAB exam. However, to enlist into any MOS you must get at least 32 points on the test.

What ASVAB scores are necessary for medical jobs like being a combat medic?

If you wish to become a combat medic, then make sure that your scores on the ASVAB are at least 101 for Skilled Technical and 107 for General Technical. That means that you will need to come prepared for the test in order to score as high as you possibly can on these sections.

Where can you take an ASVAB test?

There are many testing centers around the country that can administer a military ASVAB test to potential recruits. It’s better to find one near your home, but if you don’t have any options nearby then ask at your local high school or community center.

What subjects are on the full-length ASVAB?

The entire Armed Services Vocational Aptitude Battery is made up of nine subtests covering four areas: Arithmetic Reasoning, Mathematics Knowledge, Paragraph Comprehension, and Word Knowledge. The four subtest scores listed above are combined into two overall composite scores known as the “Verbal” score and “Quantitative” score which forms the “all-test” or line score.

How do I prepare for taking the full-length ASVAB?

The best way to prepare for a standardized test like the ASVAB is by using practice tests with explanations. There are various online resources available, but taking an official Practice Test from one of the military branches will give you a good feel on what to expect and help you get ready.

What time does testing start? What time can I arrive at the testing center?

ASVAB times vary depending on where you take it; however, there’s usually not much deviation in local areas. If possible, try to schedule your exam around lunch or dinner as most centers have long breaks throughout which may be enough time for some people before they continue with their scheduled afternoon sessions. As far as arriving early at your location goes, keep in mind that testing centers can get busy so it’s best to arrive when they open or early in case you have any issues with your paperwork.

How long does the ASVAB test take?

The full ASVAB exam usually takes between four and five hours, depending on the number of questions answered correctly within each subtest category as well as whether the student is taking a high school version called “GT” (General Technical) which has fewer subtests but doesn’t require an academic ability score for eligibility purposes. High School versions are generally shorter because there aren’t many Math-related questions since Algebra isn’t required at this level of education anymore.

Can I take the test if I haven’t graduated from high school?

If you’re still in High School and want to try the ASVAB test, then it’s best that you check with your guidance counselor first. There are different eligibility criteria for students who haven’t yet graduated, but they will be taking a “GT” version of the exam which is shorter than the regular one given to most recruits.

What does AFQT mean?

The Armed Forces Qualification Test (AFQT) score is how your raw scores from each subtest are converted into percentile rankings so as to compare results against other potential recruits joining under similar circumstances like age, gender, or race/ethnicity. Your AFQT score can also be compared across Military Occupational Specialty (MOS) within branches such as the Army, Air Force, and Marine Corps to determine if you have a higher aptitude for certain military jobs.

How is my AFQT score determined?

Your Armed Forces Qualification Test (AFQT) score is derived from your Math Knowledge + Arithmetic Reasoning scores as well as your Verbal Expression composite which forms the “all-test” or line score used by all branches of the U.S Military service to see if someone can enlist in their respective branch based on their test results. The three subtests are also combined into two overall composites known as “Verbal” and “Quantitative.” These four sections along with an academic ability section contribute toward one’s final AFQT score out of 36 points.