Understanding Army ASVAB Scores
If you’re planning to join the Army, you’ve likely heard of the ASVAB test. The Armed Services Vocational Aptitude Battery (ASVAB) is a multiple-choice test that measures a person’s aptitude in various subjects, and it’s a crucial step in determining your eligibility for different Army careers. In this article, we’ll break down what you need to know about Army ASVAB scores, including how they’re calculated, what they mean, and how to use them to choose a career path that suits you.
What is the ASVAB Test?
The ASVAB test is a comprehensive assessment that evaluates your knowledge and skills in nine different areas:
- General Science (GS)
- Arithmetic Reasoning (AR)
- Word Knowledge (WK)
- Paragraph Comprehension (PC)
- Mathematics Knowledge (MK)
- Electronics Information (EI)
- Auto and Shop Information (AS)
- Mechanical Comprehension (MC)
- Assembling Objects (AO)
The test consists of 225 multiple-choice questions, and you have 2 hours and 55 minutes to complete it.
How are ASVAB Scores Calculated?
ASVAB scores are calculated based on your performance in each of the nine subject areas. Your scores are then used to determine your Aptitude Area Scores, which are the combination of two or more subject area scores. The most common Aptitude Area Scores are:
- General Technical (GT): WK + PC
- Combat (CO): AS + MC + EI
- General Maintenance (GM): AS + MC + EI
- Administration and Support (AS): WK + PC + AR
- Mechanical Maintenance (MM): AS + MC + EI
- Electronics (EL): EI + GS + MK
Your ASVAB scores are then converted to a percentile score, which shows how well you did compared to others who took the test. For example, if you scored in the 50th percentile, that means you did better than 50% of the test-takers.
What Do ASVAB Scores Mean?
Your ASVAB scores are a crucial factor in determining your eligibility for different Army careers. The Army uses a system called the “ MOS” (Military Occupational Specialty) to categorize jobs, and each MOS has its own set of required ASVAB scores.
Here’s a breakdown of the typical ASVAB score ranges for different Army careers:
- High ASVAB Scores (90+): Most officer careers, such as pilots, intelligence officers, and medical professionals.
- Moderate ASVAB Scores (60-89): Careers that require technical skills, such as mechanics, electricians, and communications specialists.
- Low ASVAB Scores (40-59): Careers that require manual labor, such as infantry, artillery, and transportation specialists.
Keep in mind that these are general guidelines, and the specific ASVAB score requirements for each MOS can vary.
📝 Note: ASVAB scores are just one factor in determining your eligibility for different Army careers. Other factors, such as education, physical fitness, and security clearance, also play a role.
How to Use ASVAB Scores to Choose a Career Path
Now that you know how ASVAB scores work, you can use them to choose a career path that suits you. Here are some steps to follow:
- Take the ASVAB test: This will give you an idea of your strengths and weaknesses.
- Research Army careers: Look into different MOS options and their required ASVAB scores.
- Match your scores to careers: Use your ASVAB scores to determine which careers you’re eligible for.
- Consider your interests: Think about what you enjoy doing and what you’re good at. This can help you narrow down your career options.
- Talk to a recruiter: A recruiter can help you understand your ASVAB scores and guide you through the enlistment process.
| MOS | Required ASVAB Scores | Career Description |
|---|---|---|
| Infantryman (11X) | GT: 90, CO: 80 | Combatant that engages enemy forces |
| Electrician (94F) | EL: 90, GT: 80 | Installs and repairs electrical systems |
| Medical Laboratory Specialist (68K) | GM: 90, AS: 80 | Conducts medical lab tests and analyzes data |
By following these steps and using your ASVAB scores to guide you, you can choose a career path that aligns with your skills, interests, and strengths.
What is the minimum ASVAB score required to join the Army?
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The minimum ASVAB score required to join the Army is 31, but some careers may require higher scores.
Can I retake the ASVAB test if I don't like my scores?
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Yes, you can retake the ASVAB test after 6 months, but you'll need to wait at least 6 months before retaking the test.
How long are ASVAB scores valid?
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ASVAB scores are valid for 2 years, but some careers may require more recent scores.
In conclusion, ASVAB scores play a critical role in determining your eligibility for different Army careers. By understanding how ASVAB scores work and using them to choose a career path that suits you, you can set yourself up for success in the Army.
