How to Score Your ASVAB Test
Scores on the ASVAB are important for determining your military career. To get an idea of what you should expect, check out our ASVAB Scores section to see which jobs have the highest scores. Also, check out our Military Job Matching Service to find the best military job for you.
What is a good score on ASVAB?
A good score on the ASVAB is essential for many military careers. You can expect to get a better job if you have a high score. Jobs that have high ASVAB scores include the military, law enforcement, and security forces.
An ASVAB score determines your future position in the military and eligibility for different branches when starting the enlistment process. You’ll need a minimum score of 31 to be eligible to enlist in the Army, for example, while other branches of the military require different scores on the ASVAB. A higher ASVAB score can also qualify you for work in specialized areas like special forces operations.
The ASVAB consists of 10 sub-tests that evaluate your knowledge of concepts and basic skills across several subject areas, including math and science. Four of the sub-tests are used to calculate your Armed Forces Qualification Test (AFQT) score, which determines if you’ll be able to enlist. Composite scores also help analyze which types of military jobs you may be best suited for.
ASVAB requirements by military branch
Each branch of the military requires a different ASVAB minimum score. Here are requirements for each, by lowest required score:
Branch |
Minimum ASVAB score |
Army |
31 |
Marine Corps |
32 |
Navy |
35 |
Air Force |
36 |
Coast Guard |
40 |
Army
The Army requires an ASVAB score of 31 to enlist. Incentives like enlistment bonuses will require an ASVAB score of at least 50. The Army will also ask you for your high school diploma or GED. Higher ranks are offered if you’ve already completed some college, while a training program is offered if you’ve yet to earn your high school diploma or GED.
Marine Corps
The Marine Corps requires an ASVAB score of at least 32 to enlist. If you’re exceptionally qualified but receive a score of at least 25, the Marine Corps might also consider accepting you in special cases. You need a high school diploma or GED to be eligible for the Marine Corps, and if it’s your highest level of education, you should have an ASVAB score of 50 or higher. The Marine Corps also offers higher enlistment ranks for recruits who’ve completed some college, but only give advanced rank up to a certain level.
Navy
The Navy requires an ASVAB score of at least 35 to enlist, but a score of at least 31 to enlist in its reserve programs. You need a high school diploma or GED, and if it’s your highest level of education, you should have an ASVAB score of 50 or higher, at least three references from members of your community and no prior instances of criminal activity. The Navy offers advanced ranks for recruits who already have college credit, as well.
Air Force
The Air Force requires an ASVAB score of at least 36 to enlist, but most recruits earn an ASVAB score of 50 or higher. You’ll also need a high school diploma or GED, and if it’s your highest level of education, you should have an ASVAB score of 65 or higher. Like the Army, the Air Force offers a higher enlistment rank for recruits who’ve already completed some college.
Coast Guard
The Coast Guard requires an ASVAB score of at least 40 to enlist. Recruits can apply for a waiver of this requirement if their ASVAB score makes them eligible for another military job they’re willing to take. You’ll need your high school diploma or GED, and if it’s your highest level of education, you should have an ASVAB score of 50 or higher. The Coast Guard also offers advanced enlistment rank to recruits who’ve already completed college credit.
ASVAB score FAQs
Here are answers to some common questions about ASVAB scores:
What’s the highest score you can get on the ASVAB?
The highest score you can receive on the ASVAB test is 99. This score is also called an AFQT score, or Armed Forces Qualification Test score, and can be reviewed with your composite scores to properly assign you to the military branch that best matches your skills and knowledge.
What’s covered on the ASVAB?
The ASVAB covers general subjects like science, math, language comprehension and numerical operations. It also includes questions about coding speed, auto and shop information, mechanical comprehension and information about electronics.
How do you prepare for the ASVAB?
The most important aspect of preparing for the ASVAB is arriving on time. The ASVAB includes 10 sections of multiple-choice questions similar to a standardized test. You can prepare by reviewing basic skills like math, reading comprehension and technology.
Where can you take the ASVAB?
You can take the ASVAB at your local high school or community college at a scheduled time when it’s given by federal test administrators. If you’re not currently enrolled in school, you can also look for ASVAB sittings at your local community center or jobs corps center.
What is the PICAT?
The PICAT, or Pending Internet Computerized Adaptive Test, is provided as an alternative to the conventional ASVAB testing process for recruits who cannot make it to a location hosting the test. Recruits can take the PICAT at home or any location where they have internet access by registering for the test and receiving an access code from a local recruiter. Because it’s a full version of the ASVAB, you can use your score to enlist in the military and have it validated at the MEPS, or Military Entrance Processing Station, via a brief proctored exam.
Is 93 a good ASVAB score?
There is no definitive answer to this question. Every individual has different strengths and weaknesses, and as a result, an ASVAB score of 93 may not be the best option for you. However, if you have a score of 92 or higher on the ASVAB, you may be able to serve in the military.
Is a 90 on the ASVAB good?
The answer to this question depends on what you want to do with your ASVAB score. If you want to join the military, a 90 is good. If you want to pursue a career in the criminal justice system, a lower score is better.
Is 89 a good ASVAB score?
There is no definitive answer to this question. It all depends on your goals and career path. However, 89 is a good ASVAB score for many military careers. This means that you’ll be able to get a job in the military that requires an ASVAB score. Additionally, it gives you an idea of your potential job prospects and makes it easier for you to find the right military job.