Understanding ASVAB Scores
Your ASVAB scores determine not only your eligibility for military service but also which careers are available to you. Learn how the scoring system works and what you need for each branch.
AFQT Score Explained
The Armed Forces Qualification Test (AFQT) score is the most important score derived from the ASVAB. It determines whether you can enlist in the military.
How AFQT is Calculated
Your AFQT score is calculated from four ASVAB subtests:
- Arithmetic Reasoning (AR)
- Mathematics Knowledge (MK)
- Paragraph Comprehension (PC)
- Word Knowledge (WK)
The AFQT score is reported as a percentile ranging from 1 to 99. This percentile indicates how your performance compares to a reference group of test takers. For example:
- Score 50: You scored better than 50% of the reference group
- Score 75: You scored better than 75% of the reference group
- Score 90: You scored better than 90% of the reference group
AFQT Categories
The military groups AFQT scores into categories:
| Category | Score Range | Percentile |
|---|---|---|
| Category I | 93-99 | 93rd-99th percentile |
| Category II | 65-92 | 65th-92nd percentile |
| Category IIIA | 50-64 | 50th-64th percentile |
| Category IIIB | 31-49 | 31st-49th percentile |
| Category IV | 10-30 | 10th-30th percentile |
| Category V | 1-9 | 1st-9th percentile |
Branch Requirements
Each military branch sets its own minimum AFQT score requirements. These requirements vary based on your education level:
With High School Diploma
Army
Navy
Air Force
Marines
Coast Guard
Space Force
With GED
Army
Navy
Air Force
Marines
Coast Guard
Space Force
Important Notes
- These are minimum requirements - higher scores provide more opportunities
- Some special programs may require higher scores
- Requirements can change based on military needs
- Waivers may be available in certain circumstances
Career Line Scores
Beyond the AFQT score, the military uses "line scores" or "composite scores" to determine qualification for specific jobs (MOS/Rating). These are combinations of your subtest scores:
Common Line Scores
GT (General Technical)
AR + PC + WK
EL (Electronics)
GS + AR + MK + EI
MM (Mechanical Maintenance)
AS + MC + EI
CL (Clerical)
PC + WK + AR + MK
Career Examples
Higher scores in specific areas open different career paths:
- Technology/Engineering: Typically requires GT score of 110+
- Special Forces: Often requires GT score of 110+ and high physical fitness
- Medical/Healthcare: Requires strong scores in General Science and other areas
- Aviation: Requires strong mechanical and technical scores
Improving Your Scores
If your scores don't meet your goals, you have options:
Retaking the Test
- Wait 30 days after your first test
- Second retest requires 6-month wait
- Study and focus on weak areas
- Consider professional tutoring
Preparation Tips
- Take practice tests regularly
- Focus on AFQT subjects first
- Review basic math concepts
- Improve vocabulary and reading