Learn How ASVAB Scores Are Calculated and What They Mean

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Learn How ASVAB Scores Are Calculated and What They Mean

Introduction to the ASVAB and Its Structure

What is the ASVAB?

The Armed Services Vocational Aptitude Battery, commonly known as the ASVAB, is a multiple-choice exam used by the United States military to evaluate the knowledge and aptitude of individuals seeking to enlist. It is a vital component of the enlistment process and serves two primary purposes: determining eligibility for enlistment and helping assign recruits to roles that match their strengths.

The ASVAB is not just a single test but a battery of subtests that measure a wide range of skills and aptitudes. It is designed to evaluate your academic knowledge, problem-solving abilities, and technical skills. The better you perform on the ASVAB, the more career options you may qualify for within the military.

Who Takes the ASVAB?

The ASVAB is taken by high school students, recent graduates, and individuals considering a career in any branch of the U.S. military, including the Army, Navy, Marine Corps, Air Force, Space Force, and Coast Guard. While primarily used for enlistment purposes, the ASVAB is also part of the Career Exploration Program, which helps students learn more about their strengths and explore potential career paths, both military and civilian.

If you are planning to enlist, your ASVAB score will play a major role in determining the roles available to you, as well as your initial placement and training.

Where and How the ASVAB is Administered

The ASVAB is typically administered in one of two ways:

CAT-ASVAB (Computerized Adaptive Test): Given at Military Entrance Processing Stations (MEPS). This version adapts the difficulty of questions based on your responses. If you answer correctly, the next question is more difficult; if you answer incorrectly, the next one is easier.
P&P-ASVAB (Paper and Pencil): Usually given at satellite testing sites known as MET (Military Entrance Test) sites. Everyone receives the same questions in this version, and it’s more common in schools or locations without access to MEPS.

Both formats are scored in similar ways, and the subtests are generally the same. However, time limits and the number of questions can vary slightly between versions.

Purpose of the ASVAB

The ASVAB is used to:

Determine eligibility for enlistment into the U.S. Armed Forces.
Assign recruits to appropriate Military Occupational Specialties (MOS) or career fields.
Help test-takers explore potential civilian career paths, even if they choose not to enlist.

Your scores on the ASVAB subtests determine not only whether you can enlist but also which military jobs you may be qualified to perform. Some roles require high aptitude in mechanical skills, while others emphasize electronics, clerical ability, or mathematical reasoning.

Understanding the ASVAB’s structure and how it affects your military future is the first step in preparing for a successful enlistment and career.

ASVAB Test Structure

The ASVAB consists of nine or ten subtests, depending on the version you take. Each subtest is designed to evaluate a different area of knowledge or skill.

Subtests Included in the ASVAB

Here is a breakdown of each subtest and what it assesses:

General Science (GS)

This section evaluates your understanding of physical and biological sciences. Topics include:

Life science (biology, human anatomy)
Earth and space science (geology, astronomy)
Physical science (chemistry and physics)

This section tests broad scientific knowledge typically taught in high school. It is particularly important for individuals interested in technical or health-related military jobs.

Arithmetic Reasoning (AR)

This subtest measures your ability to solve basic arithmetic problems. These are usually word problems involving:

Percentages
Ratios
Proportions
Basic algebraic reasoning

The AR section is important because many military jobs require on-the-spot mathematical thinking.

Word Knowledge (WK)

This section measures vocabulary and understanding of word meanings. You may be asked to identify:

Synonyms (words with similar meanings)
Definitions of words in context
Common usage of words

A strong vocabulary is essential in understanding technical manuals and following orders accurately.

Paragraph Comprehension (PC)

In this section, you read short passages and answer questions to test your reading comprehension. You’ll be asked to:

Identify main ideas
Understand details
Infer meanings or conclude.

This subtest evaluates how well you can extract information from written material, which is a critical skill for all military roles.

Mathematics Knowledge (MK)

This subtest assesses high school-level math skills, including:

Algebra
Geometry
Basic math operations

MK is particularly relevant for technically inclined positions, such as engineering or electronics.

Electronics Information (EI)

This subtest evaluates your understanding of electrical principles and electronic systems. Topics include:

Currents and circuits
Batteries and resistors
Electronic terminology

This section is crucial for roles involving communications, electrical maintenance, or avionics.

Auto and Shop Information (AS)

This subtest is split into two areas:

Auto: Focuses on car maintenance, repair, and functioning.
Shop: Covers basic tools, woodworking, and shop terminology.

If you are pursuing a mechanical or automotive career path, this section will be especially relevant.

Mechanical Comprehension (MC)

This section tests your understanding of mechanical and physical principles. It covers:

Levers and pulleys
Gears and simple machines
Force, motion, and energy

It is often required for positions involving construction, maintenance, or equipment operation.

Assembling Objects (AO)

This is a spatial reasoning subtest, available only on the computerized version of the ASVAB. You’ll be given pieces of an object and must determine how they fit together. It assesses your ability to visualize and mentally rotate objects.

This subtest is important for technical roles, especially those involving machinery or engineering design.

Total Test Time and Structure

The total time to complete the ASVAB varies depending on the version taken:

CAT-ASVAB: Around 1.5 to 2 hours
P&P-ASVAB: Around 3 to 4 hours

Each subtest is timed individually. You must manage your time wisely to ensure all questions are answered within the allocated period. Questions are multiple-choice, and you are not penalized for incorrect answers, so guessing is encouraged if unsure.

Test-Taking Environment

At MEPS or a MET site, you will take the test in a proctored environment. Identification is required, and you’ll be instructed to leave personal belongings outside the testing room. The goal is to provide a distraction-free and standardized testing environment to ensure fairness and accuracy.

Why the ASVAB Matters

Understanding the ASVAB and its structure is the first and most essential step in military enlistment preparation. But why is it so important?

Determines Eligibility

Your AFQT score, derived from four subtests of the ASVAB, is used to determine whether you qualify to enlist in the U.S. military. Each branch has its minimum score requirements. Scoring below the threshold for your desired branch means you cannot enlist in that branch without retaking the test and improving your score.

Determines Career Path

Even if you qualify for enlistment, your scores on the individual subtests are used to calculate line scores. These line scores are matched with specific job requirements. The better you perform on relevant subtests, the more options you’ll have in choosing your role.

Affects Advancement Opportunities

High ASVAB scores can improve your chances of qualifying for advanced enlistment ranks or specialized training programs. In some cases, strong performance may even lead to financial incentives or signing bonuses.

Helps in Career Exploration

Even if you choose not to enlist, the ASVAB provides useful feedback on your academic and technical strengths. It can serve as a valuable tool for exploring civilian careers that align with your skills.

Getting Ready for the ASVAB

While this section focuses primarily on understanding the test’s structure, it’s also important to note that preparation plays a huge role in your success. Knowing what each subtest covers gives you a roadmap for your study plan. Reviewing high school-level math, improving vocabulary, and practicing mechanical concepts can all help you perform better.

Understanding ASVAB Scoring – Raw Scores and Standard Scores

Introduction to ASVAB Scoring

Once you complete the ASVAB, your performance is summarized through a variety of scores. However, not all scores are equally important or easy to understand. To interpret your results effectively, it’s essential to know the difference between raw scores, standard scores and how they contribute to the Armed Forces Qualification Test (AFQT) and line scores.

This part explains the logic and calculations behind each score type, helping you make sense of what your ASVAB results mean for your military career.

Raw Scores

What Is a Raw Score?

A raw score is the simplest form of scoring on the ASVAB. It represents the number of questions you answer correctly on a particular subtest. For example, if a subtest has 40 questions and you get 30 correct, your raw score is 30.

There is no penalty for wrong answers on the ASVAB, so guessing on questions you’re unsure about is always encouraged. The raw score reflects only the correct answers, without taking into account the difficulty level of those questions.

Limitations of Raw Scores

Raw scores, while straightforward, are not very useful by themselves. That’s because different test forms might have questions of varying difficulty. Getting 30 questions right on a hard version of the test may indicate a stronger performance than getting 35 right on an easier version.

Because of this variability, the military uses standard scores to allow for fair comparisons between test-takers. Raw scores are primarily used internally to help calculate standard scores, AFQT scores, and line scores.

Standard Scores

What Are Standard Scores?

Standard scores are a transformation of your raw scores that places your performance in context. These scores compare your performance to a nationally representative sample of test-takers, usually individuals between the ages of 18 and 23.

Instead of simply counting how many questions you got right, standard scores take into account the average performance and the distribution of scores among the test population. They help determine where you fall relative to others.

How Standard Scores Are Calculated

Standard scores are derived through a process called statistical scaling. Here’s how it generally works:

Raw scores are collected from your ASVAB subtests.
Those raw scores are mapped to a standardized scale.
The scaling adjusts for the difficulty of questions and normalizes the scores across all test-takers.

The result is a score where:

The average (mean) is set to 50.
The standard deviation is 10.

This means most test-takers will score between 40 and 60 on each subtest.

For example:

A score of 50 indicates average performance.
A score of 60 means you performed better than roughly 84 percent of test-takers.
A score of 40 means you performed better than about 16 percent of test-takers.

These standard scores are used to calculate both the AFQT score and the various line scores required for military jobs.

Interpreting Standard Scores

Standard scores provide a reliable way to compare performance across different test versions. Since they are normalized, two people who take the test at different times and on different test forms can still be compared accurately.

If you score significantly above 50 in any subtest, it suggests strong performance in that area, which can positively impact your line scores and increase your chances of qualifying for more technical or specialized roles.

Standard Scores vs Percentile Scores

It’s important to distinguish standard scores from percentile scores:

A standard score reflects how far above or below the average you are based on a normalized scale.
A percentile score indicates how your performance compares to that of others, showing the percentage of people you outperformed.

You’ll encounter both when reviewing your ASVAB results, but they serve different purposes in evaluating your performance.

AFQT Score

What Is the AFQT?

The Armed Forces Qualification Test (AFQT) score is the most important score derived from your ASVAB results. It is used to determine whether you qualify for enlistment in the U.S. military. Unlike other ASVAB scores, which are based on various subtests, the AFQT is calculated using only four of them:

Arithmetic Reasoning (AR)
Mathematics Knowledge (MK)
Word Knowledge (WK)
Paragraph Comprehension (PC)

These four sections are considered the best predictors of general cognitive ability and academic readiness for military training.

How to Calculate the AFQT Score

To calculate the AFQT score, you need to follow a few steps involving the raw and standard scores of the four contributing subtests.

Calculate Verbal Expression (VE):
Add the Word Knowledge (WK) and Paragraph Comprehension (PC) raw scores.
Example: WK = 32, PC = 38 → VE = 32 + 38 = 70
Multiply the VE score by 2:
VE = 70 → 70 × 2 = 140
Add the Arithmetic Reasoning (AR) and Mathematics Knowledge (MK) scores:
AR = 45, MK = 50 → AR + MK = 95
Combine all parts:
Total AFQT raw score = 140 (2 × VE) + 95 = 235
Convert the result to a percentile:
This final score is then converted into a percentile rank based on national norms.

AFQT Percentile Rankings

The AFQT score is expressed as a percentile from 1 to 99. This percentile indicates how your score compares to a reference population of test-takers aged 18 to 23.

For example:

An AFQT score of 75 means you scored as well as or better than 75 percent of the reference group.
A score of 50 indicates average performance.
A score of 30 means you performed better than only 30 percent of test-takers.

These percentile rankings are essential for determining military eligibility.

Minimum AFQT Scores by Branch

Each military branch sets its own minimum AFQT score requirements for enlistment:

Army: 31
Marine Corps: 31
Navy: 35
Air Force: 36
Coast Guard: 40

If you score below the minimum requirement for your chosen branch, you will not be eligible to enlist unless you retake the test and improve your score.

Why the AFQT Matters

The AFQT score is used to determine:

Whether you are eligible to enlist in a particular branch.
Whether you qualify for certain enlistment bonuses.
Whether you may be considered for more selective or specialized roles.

A higher AFQT score not only broadens your enlistment options but also reflects positively on your overall cognitive abilities and academic preparedness.

Key Differences Between Raw, Standard, and AFQT Scores

Understanding how each score functions helps in interpreting your ASVAB results more clearly:

Raw Score: Number of correct answers; varies per test form and is not shared with test-takers.
Standard Score: Adjusted score on a 1–100 scale with a mean of 50 and standard deviation of 10; allows comparison across test-takers.
AFQT Score: Composite score based on four subtests; reported as a percentile; determines military enlistment eligibility.

Each score serves a specific purpose in helping recruiters and the military determine your suitability for service and potential career paths.

What to Do With Your Scores

Once you receive your scores, take the time to:

Review your AFQT percentile to ensure you meet the minimum requirements for your preferred branch.
Analyze individual subtest scores to understand where you excel or where you may need improvement.
Consider retaking the ASVAB if your AFQT or subtest scores do not align with your career goals.

You can use your score report as a guide to tailor your study efforts and target improvement areas if needed.

When Retesting Is Appropriate

You may consider retesting if:

Your AFQT score falls below the required threshold for enlistment.
Your line scores are too low to qualify for the military job you want.
You feel you underperformed due to a lack of preparation or external circumstances.

There are waiting periods between retakes, and the military generally expects to see evidence of preparation or improvement before allowing additional attempts.

Preparing for Better Scores

Improving your scores begins with identifying which subtests are most important for your goals. If your AFQT score is too low, focus on arithmetic, math knowledge, reading comprehension, and vocabulary.

If you’re targeting a specific military occupation, research which subtests influence the line score for that job and strengthen your performance in those areas.

Line Scores and Their Role in Military Career Assignment

What Are Line Scores?

Line scores are composite scores created by combining standard scores from specific ASVAB subtests. Unlike the AFQT, which determines basic enlistment eligibility, line scores are used by each branch of the U.S. military to match individuals with particular Military Occupational Specialties (MOS) or job classifications.

Every job in the military requires a unique set of skills. Line scores help determine whether a recruit’s strengths align with those needed for specific career fields. For example, a role in electronics repair might require strong performance in math, science, and electronics subtests, while a clerical position may focus more on verbal and arithmetic reasoning abilities.

Why Line Scores Matter

Scoring high on the AFQT allows you to enlist, but it’s your line scores that determine what jobs you can qualify for once you’re in. Some of the most desirable and competitive positions in the military require high line scores in specific categories.

If you already have a career path in mind, understanding line scores will help you focus your ASVAB study efforts on the subtests that directly affect your eligibility for that role.

For example:

To become a Cryptologic Linguist, you may need strong scores in verbal, reading, and analytical subtests.
To qualify for Combat Engineering, your mechanical, shop, and math subtest scores are likely to be critical.

How Line Scores Are Calculated

Components of Line Scores

Each military branch has its system for grouping ASVAB subtests into line scores. Most line scores are created by adding together two or more standard scores from relevant subtests. These combinations are then used to evaluate a recruit’s aptitude for different categories of military jobs.

The specific subtests used to calculate line scores include:

General Science (GS)
Arithmetic Reasoning (AR)
Word Knowledge (WK)
Paragraph Comprehension (PC)
Mathematics Knowledge (MK)
Electronics Information (EI)
Auto & Shop Information (AS)
Mechanical Comprehension (MC)
Assembling Objects (AO)

Word Knowledge (WK) and Paragraph Comprehension (PC) are typically combined into a score called Verbal Expression (VE).

Verbal Expression (VE) Score

The Verbal Expression score is a common element in many line score formulas. To calculate VE, the military combines the standard scores from WK and PC and then applies a conversion table to assign a scaled VE score.

For example:

WK = 55, PC = 60
Raw VE = 55 + 60 = 115
Converted VE score (based on official conversion table) = 62

The VE score is then used in combination with other subtest scores to generate line scores for different military roles.

Branch-Specific Line Score Categories

Each branch of the military calculates line scores differently and uses different combinations of subtests based on its unique requirements and occupational structure.

Army Line Scores

The Army uses the following primary line score categories:

Clerical (CL): VE + AR + MK
Combat (CO): VE + AS + MC
Electronics (EL): GS + AR + MK + EI
Field Artillery (FA): AR + MK + MC
General Technical (GT): VE + AR
General Maintenance (GM): GS + AS + MK + EI
Mechanical Maintenance (MM): AS + MC + EI
Operators and Food (OF): VE + AS + MC
Surveillance and Communications (SC): VE + AR + AS + MC
Skilled Technical (ST): GS + VE + MK + MC

Each Army MOS has a minimum required score in one or more of these categories. For example, the Human Intelligence Collector (MOS 35M) requires a minimum ST line score of 101.

Navy Line Scores

The Navy refers to job categories as “ratings.” It calculates line scores as follows:

Arithmetic Reasoning + Mathematics Knowledge + Electronics Information + General Science (EM): For electronics roles
VE + AR + MK + MC (ET): For engineering positions
VE + MK + AS + MC (MM): For mechanical jobs
VE + MK + EI + AR (NUC): For nuclear power jobs

Each rating has a specific line score requirement. For example, to qualify for the Nuclear Field program, a high NUC line score is essential.

Air Force Line Scores

The Air Force uses four primary aptitude areas:

General (G): VE + AR
Mechanical (M): AR + MC + AS + EI
Administrative (A): VE + MK
Electronics (E): AR + MK + EI + GS

Each Air Force Specialty Code (AFSC) requires a minimum score in one or more of these areas. For instance, avionics roles demand high scores in the Electronics (E) line score category.

Marine Corps Line Scores

The Marine Corps uses the following line score categories:

Clerical (CL): VE + AR + MK
Electronics (EL): GS + AR + MK + EI
General Technical (GT): VE + AR
Mechanical Maintenance (MM): AS + EI + MC
Skilled Technical (ST): GS + VE + MK + MC

As with other branches, each job in the Marine Corps requires a minimum score in the relevant category.

Coast Guard Line Scores

The Coast Guard uses a simpler approach but still relies heavily on the AFQT and specific subtests. Each Coast Guard rating has unique ASVAB subtest requirements. For example, a score of 115 in Arithmetic Reasoning and Mathematics Knowledge might be necessary for technical roles like Machinery Technician.

Line Score Requirements for Popular Jobs

Here are some examples of military jobs and the typical line score requirements:

Army Intelligence Analyst (35F): GT score of 101 or higher
Marine Corps Cyber Network Operator (0631): EL score of 105 or higher
Air Force Pararescue (1T2X1): G score of 44, M score of 55
Navy Nuclear Field (NF): NUC score of 235 (minimum combined score from several subtests)
Coast Guard Information Systems Technician: VE + AR + MK + GS must total a minimum threshold score.

These examples demonstrate how crucial it is to perform well on specific subtests if you have a targeted job in mind.

Improving Your Line Scores

Identify Required Subtests

To improve your line scores, the first step is identifying which subtests influence the line scores for your desired job. For example, if you want to become an avionics technician in the Air Force, focus on improving your scores in Electronics Information, Mathematics Knowledge, and Arithmetic Reasoning.

Target Weak Areas

Take diagnostic tests or practice exams to determine which subtests are your weakest. Spend more study time on those areas. If you score high on VE but low on EI, and your desired job depends on a strong EL or E line score, prioritize studying electronics principles.

Use Relevant Study Materials

Tailor your study materials to the subtests that affect your most important line scores. Choose books, online tutorials, or flashcards that align with your needs. If possible, seek out subject-specific guides, such as books on electronics for improving EI or geometry-focused resources for boosting MK.

Practice Strategically

Take timed practice tests and simulate the real ASVAB environment. Regular practice improves speed, accuracy, and confidence, all of which are crucial for raising your standard scores.

Consider Retesting

If your line scores fall short of your desired job, retaking the ASVAB may be a good option. However, you must wait at least 30 days before retesting. Use this time wisely to strengthen the subtests most relevant to your career goals.

The Role of Line Scores in Career Counseling

After you take the ASVAB, a recruiter or career counselor will review your scores and help match you with military jobs that align with your performance. Understanding line scores will allow you to have a more informed and proactive conversation about your future.

You might hear phrases like:

“You qualify for intelligence and clerical roles.”
“Your electronics line score needs to improve for the job you want.”
“With these scores, you have over 150 MOS options.”

By knowing how your line scores were calculated, you’ll better understand what those options mean and how to pursue the path that fits your goals.

Line scores are a critical part of the ASVAB scoring system. While the AFQT determines basic eligibility, line scores open doors to specific military careers. Every branch of the U.S. military uses a different combination of ASVAB subtests to calculate these scores. Knowing which subtests influence the line scores for your desired job gives you a strategic advantage when preparing for the test.

In the next part of this series, we will focus on interpreting your ASVAB results, including what your scores mean for your military career, how to assess your strengths and weaknesses, and how to plan for improvement if needed.

Interpreting Your ASVAB Scores and Preparing Effectively

Understanding the Value of ASVAB Results

Taking the ASVAB is only the beginning. The next and equally important step is interpreting your results to understand what opportunities are available to you in the military. Your ASVAB results include your AFQT score, individual subtest scores, and line scores. These scores collectively determine your eligibility for enlistment and what career paths are open to you.

Understanding your strengths and weaknesses can help you make informed decisions about which military roles you should consider and whether you might benefit from retaking the test.

Reviewing Your Score Report

When you receive your ASVAB results, you’ll see several different types of scores:

Standard Scores: Provided for each subtest, showing your performance compared to the average score of a reference group.
AFQT Score: Expressed as a percentile, indicating your eligibility for enlistment.
Line Scores: Composite scores based on various subtest combinations, used to qualify you for specific military jobs.

Let’s examine how each score is interpreted and how it influences your military career.

Interpreting Your AFQT Score

What the AFQT Score Tells You

Your AFQT score is perhaps the most crucial number on your ASVAB report. Expressed as a percentile (from 1 to 99), it shows how your performance compares to that of a nationally representative group of test-takers aged 18 to 23.

For example:

An AFQT score of 60 means you scored better than 60 percent of the reference group.
An AFQT score of 45 means you performed better than 45 percent of test-takers.
An AFQT score of 90 places you in the top 10 percent.

This percentile ranking helps determine whether you qualify for enlistment in the U.S. Armed Forces and may influence your chances of receiving enlistment bonuses or access to more selective positions.

Minimum Required AFQT Scores by Branch

Each branch of the military sets its own minimum AFQT score requirements:

Army: 31
Marine Corps: 31
Navy: 35
Air Force: 36
Coast Guard: 40

If your AFQT score is below the minimum for your desired branch, you will need to retake the ASVAB to qualify. Conversely, a score significantly above the minimum can increase your chances of qualifying for competitive jobs and programs.

AFQT Score Categories

AFQT scores are often grouped into categories used by recruiters to assess eligibility:

Category I (93–99): Excellent performance; highest level of eligibility.
Category II (65–92): Very good performance.
Category IIIA (50–64): Average to above-average performance; qualifies for many roles.
Category IIIB (31–49): Lower performance range; may limit job options.
Category IV (10–30): Generally disqualified unless special waivers apply.
Category V (1–9): Not eligible for enlistment.

Higher categories generally allow access to a broader selection of job roles and specialized training programs.

Interpreting Your Line Scores

Why Line Scores Matter

Line scores determine the specific military jobs you qualify for. Each Military Occupational Specialty (MOS), Air Force Specialty Code (AFSC), or Navy rating has minimum line score requirements that vary by job and branch.

If your scores in key subtests are strong, your line scores will be higher, which opens up more career options. Understanding which subtests influence each line score allows you to align your study and test strategy with your career goals.

Example Interpretation

Suppose you’re interested in a technical role, such as a Navy Nuclear Field position. This role requires high scores in the Mathematics Knowledge (MK), Arithmetic Reasoning (AR), Electronics Information (EI), and General Science (GS) subtests. If your scores in these areas are high, your line score for the Nuclear category will reflect that, and you’ll be eligible to apply.

On the other hand, if you perform poorly in the Mechanical Comprehension (MC) and Auto and Shop Information (AS) subtests, you may be disqualified from mechanical maintenance roles in the Army or Marine Corps.

By comparing your line scores to the requirements of various jobs, you can narrow down the positions you’re qualified for and consider retesting if your preferred career path is currently out of reach.

Assessing Your Strengths and Weaknesses

Analyze Subtest Performance

Your ASVAB score report will list your standard scores for each subtest. Review these to identify where you performed well and where you may need improvement.

High scores in:

AR, MK: Indicate strong math skills, good for technical and analytical roles.
WK, PC: Shows good verbal skills, beneficial for clerical or intelligence jobs.
MC, AS: Suggest mechanical aptitude, ideal for repair and construction jobs.
EI, GS: Reflects strong technical and scientific understanding, useful in electronics and medical fields.

Match Skills to Career Paths

Once you know your strengths, you can match them to roles that emphasize those abilities. If you score high in EI and MK, consider engineering or electronics-related fields. If verbal comprehension is your strong suit, you might be a good fit for intelligence, administration, or linguistics.

Identify Areas to Improve

Low scores in specific subtests can limit your options. For example, if your VE score is low, it may affect your eligibility for roles requiring communication and literacy skills. If math scores are low, technical jobs may be harder to qualify for.

Use this insight to guide your preparation before retaking the ASVAB, if needed.

When and Why to Retake the ASVAB

Valid Reasons for Retesting

You may consider retaking the ASVAB if:

You did not meet the minimum AFQT score for enlistment.
Your line scores are below the requirement for your desired job.
You believe your test performance was not reflective of your abilities due to stress, illness, or lack of preparation.

Retesting Policy

There are specific rules regarding how often you can take the ASVAB:

You must wait 30 days after your first test to retake it.
If you retake it a second time, you must wait another 30 days.
For any subsequent retake, the wait period is six months.

Use the time between attempts to focus your study efforts and ensure your scores improve meaningfully.

Preparing Effectively for the ASVAB

Know What to Study

Focus on the subtests that affect your AFQT score and the line scores relevant to your desired job. For most candidates, the following areas are critical:

Mathematics Knowledge (MK)
Arithmetic Reasoning (AR)
Word Knowledge (WK)
Paragraph Comprehension (PC)

Depending on your career goals, you may also need to study:

Electronics Information (EI)
Mechanical Comprehension (MC)
General Science (GS)
Auto and Shop Information (AS)

Use Reliable Study Resources

Consider a combination of these materials:

ASVAB Study Guides: Offer comprehensive coverage of all subtests.
Flashcards: Great for vocabulary, definitions, and technical terms.
Practice Tests: Simulate the actual exam environment and help track progress.
Tutoring or Online Courses: Especially useful for improving in weak areas.

Practice Under Timed Conditions

The ASVAB is a timed test. Practicing with a timer helps improve pacing and reduces anxiety during the actual exam. Use full-length practice exams to build stamina and identify any timing issues.

Build a Study Schedule

Create a realistic study schedule that targets specific subtests each week. Break down your preparation into manageable sessions and allocate more time to subjects you find difficult. Consistency is key.

Review Your Mistakes

After taking practice tests, thoroughly review every incorrect answer. Understand why your answer was wrong and learn the correct method or concept. This type of reflection is one of the most effective ways to improve.

Setting Realistic Goals and Expectations

Be Honest About Your Abilities

If you have a specific military job in mind, find out exactly what line scores are required and evaluate whether those goals are achievable based on your baseline abilities and the time you have to prepare.

If you’re significantly below the requirement, consider whether a different but related role might also align with your skills and interests.

Talk to a Recruiter

Recruiters are trained to help you interpret your ASVAB scores and match you with jobs that fit your abilities. Be open with them about your goals, and ask what steps you can take to qualify for certain roles if you’re currently ineligible.

Balance Aspirations With Readiness

While it’s important to aim high, be prepared to adjust your expectations based on your performance. The military offers a wide range of fulfilling careers. Even if your initial goal isn’t immediately reachable, many opportunities allow you to train, develop, and advance into your desired field over time.

Final Thoughts

Understanding and interpreting your ASVAB scores is a critical part of planning your military future. The AFQT score determines if you can enlist, but your line scores determine what you can do once you’re in. Reviewing your subtest performance reveals where you excel and where you need improvement.

Preparing effectively—by targeting specific subtests, practicing consistently, and using reliable study materials—can significantly improve your scores and increase your chances of qualifying for the military job you want.

Whether you’re preparing to take the ASVAB for the first time or planning a retake, use your score report as a strategic tool. Set realistic goals, develop a focused study plan, and pursue a career path that aligns with both your interests and abilities.

Good luck on your ASVAB journey and your future military career.