Army ASVAB Scores

If you’re considering a career in the U.S. Army, one of the first steps is to take the Armed Services Vocational Aptitude Battery (ASVAB). Your performance on this test will not only determine your eligibility to enlist but also help identify the best Army jobs (or Military Occupational Specialties (MOS)) based on your skills.

In this article, we will break down how the Army uses ASVAB scores, the scoring system itself, and what specific scores are required for different Army jobs.

How the Army Uses ASVAB Scores

The ASVAB is a multi-aptitude test that evaluates your knowledge in areas such as math, word knowledge, mechanical comprehension, and electronics. The U.S. Army uses your ASVAB scores to determine your Armed Forces Qualification Test (AFQT) score, which dictates your eligibility to enlist, as well as your line scores, which determine the Army jobs you qualify for.

AFQT Score: Determining Eligibility

The AFQT score is the most critical ASVAB score because it determines whether you’re eligible to enlist in the Army. This score is calculated based on your performance in the following four ASVAB subtests:

1. Arithmetic Reasoning (AR)
2. Mathematics Knowledge (MK)
3. Word Knowledge (WK)
4. Paragraph Comprehension (PC)

Your AFQT score is expressed as a percentile, comparing your results to those of other test-takers. For example, if you score a 60, you performed better than 60% of individuals who took the ASVAB. The minimum required AFQT score to join the Army is 31.

Army Line Scores: Matching You to an Army Job (MOS)

While your AFQT score determines if you can enlist, your line scores help the Army decide which specific job or MOS (Military Occupational Specialty) you qualify for. These line scores are calculated using different combinations of your ASVAB subtest scores, depending on the job category.

Here’s a breakdown of the key line scores used in the Army and the ASVAB subtests that contribute to them:

• Clerical (CL): Word Knowledge (WK), Paragraph Comprehension (PC), Arithmetic Reasoning (AR), Mathematics Knowledge (MK)
• Combat (CO): Arithmetic Reasoning (AR), Auto & Shop Information (AS), Mechanical Comprehension (MC)
• Electronics (EL): General Science (GS), Arithmetic Reasoning (AR), Mathematics Knowledge (MK), Electronics Information (EI)
• Field Artillery (FA): Arithmetic Reasoning (AR), Mathematics Knowledge (MK), Mechanical Comprehension (MC)
• General Technical (GT): Word Knowledge (WK), Paragraph Comprehension (PC), Arithmetic Reasoning (AR)
• Mechanical Maintenance (MM): Auto & Shop Information (AS), Mechanical Comprehension (MC), Electronics Information (EI)
• Operators and Food (OF): Word Knowledge (WK), Arithmetic Reasoning (AR), Auto & Shop Information (AS), Mechanical Comprehension (MC)
• Surveillance and Communications (SC): Word Knowledge (WK), Paragraph Comprehension (PC), Auto & Shop Information (AS), Mechanical Comprehension (MC), Electronics Information (EI)
• Skilled Technical (ST): General Science (GS), Word Knowledge (WK), Paragraph Comprehension (PC), Mechanical Comprehension (MC)

Each job in the Army has specific line score requirements, which means your performance in certain areas of the ASVAB will determine which MOS you qualify for.

Minimum ASVAB Scores for Popular Army Jobs

Here’s a look at the minimum ASVAB line scores needed for some of the most popular Army jobs:

• Infantry (11B): Minimum CO score of 87
• Human Resources Specialist (42A): Minimum CL score of 90
• Combat Engineer (12B): Minimum CO score of 87
• Fire Control Specialist (13J): Minimum FA score of 93
• Military Police (31B): Minimum ST score of 91
• Intelligence Analyst (35F): Minimum ST score of 101
• Army Aviation (15Q): Minimum MM score of 99
• Cyber Operations Specialist (17C): Minimum GT score of 110, and minimum ST score of 112
• Paralegal Specialist (27D): Minimum CL score of 105
• Special Forces (18X): Minimum GT score of 110

As you can see, different Army jobs require varying combinations of ASVAB line scores. More technical or specialized roles, such as cyber operations or intelligence, often require higher line scores in areas like General Technical (GT) and Skilled Technical (ST).

For a complete list of Army MOSs and their required ASVAB scores, visit the ASVAB scores and Army jobs page.

How to Improve Your ASVAB Scores

Scoring well on the ASVAB is important if you want access to a wider range of job opportunities in the Army. Here are some tips to help you prepare:

1. Study Regularly

Don’t wait until the last minute to prepare. Start studying at least two months before your scheduled test date. Focus on the subjects covered in the ASVAB subtests, especially areas where you feel less confident.

2. Take Practice Tests

Practice tests are an excellent way to familiarize yourself with the format of the ASVAB and identify areas where you need improvement. ASVAB practice tests are available online and will help you track your progress over time.

3. Focus on Your Weaknesses

Once you’ve taken a practice test, review your results and focus on the areas where you scored the lowest. If you struggle with Mathematics Knowledge (MK) or Mechanical Comprehension (MC), dedicate extra time to studying those topics.

4. Use Study Guides

There are several ASVAB study guides and prep books available that cover all the test sections. These guides provide sample questions, explanations of correct answers, and test-taking strategies to help you succeed.

5. Get Plenty of Rest Before the Test

A well-rested mind is a focused mind. Ensure you get a good night’s sleep before the test, and avoid cramming or stressful activities the day before.

Retaking the ASVAB

If you’re not satisfied with your ASVAB scores, or you didn’t qualify for the job you wanted, you can retake the ASVAB. However, there are waiting periods between attempts. After your first test, you must wait one month before retaking it. If you want to take it a third time, you must wait an additional six months. Keep in mind that your most recent score will be used for your enlistment, even if it’s lower than previous scores.

Conclusion

Your ASVAB scores play a significant role in shaping your Army career. From determining if you’re eligible to enlist to deciding which MOS you qualify for, the ASVAB is a crucial step in the enlistment process. A high score gives you more options, access to specialized jobs, and potential bonuses. By studying effectively, taking practice tests, and focusing on your weak areas, you can improve your scores and maximize your opportunities in the U.S. Army.

For more information on preparing for the ASVAB and how your scores translate into Army jobs, visit the official ASVAB site.