ASVAB Score Categories Explained: Ultimate Guide [2023 Update]

Understand the ASVAB Score Categories

General Science (GS)

The General Science subtest measures your knowledge of physical and biological sciences. To score well in this category, you should focus on studying topics such as biology, chemistry, physics, and earth science. Reviewing basic scientific principles and concepts will help you perform better in this subtest.

Arithmetic Reasoning (AR)

Arithmetic Reasoning assesses your ability to solve mathematical problems and apply mathematical concepts. To excel in this category, practice solving arithmetic problems involving fractions, decimals, percentages, and basic algebraic equations. Strengthening your problem-solving skills and understanding of mathematical principles will improve your performance in this subtest.

Word Knowledge (WK)

The Word Knowledge subtest evaluates your vocabulary and understanding of word meanings. To do well in this category, expand your vocabulary by reading books, newspapers, and articles. Familiarize yourself with synonyms, antonyms, and context clues to better comprehend and answer questions related to word meanings.

Paragraph Comprehension (PC)

Paragraph Comprehension measures your ability to understand written passages and answer questions based on the information provided. To improve your performance in this category, practice reading and comprehending various types of texts, such as articles, essays, and technical documents. Focus on identifying main ideas, supporting details, and drawing logical conclusions from the given information.

Mathematics Knowledge (MK)

Mathematics Knowledge assesses your understanding of mathematical concepts and principles. To score well in this category, review topics such as algebra, geometry, trigonometry, and statistics. Practice solving mathematical problems and equations to strengthen your mathematical reasoning and problem-solving skills.

By understanding the different score categories and focusing on improving your knowledge and skills in each area, you can increase your chances of scoring well on the ASVAB. Remember to study consistently, practice regularly, and seek additional resources or guidance if needed. With dedication and effort, you can achieve a high ASVAB score and open up various opportunities in the military.

Understand the Composite Scores

Familiarize Yourself with the ASVAB Score Categories

The ASVAB score categories are divided into four main areas: Arithmetic Reasoning, Word Knowledge, Paragraph Comprehension, and Mathematics Knowledge. Each category measures different skills and abilities that are important for military service.

Identify Your Weak Areas

To improve your ASVAB scores, it is crucial to identify your weak areas. Take practice tests or review study materials to determine which categories you struggle with the most. By pinpointing your weaknesses, you can focus your study efforts on those specific areas.

Develop a Study Plan

Once you have identified your weak areas, create a study plan to improve your skills in those categories. Allocate specific time slots for studying each day and set realistic goals for yourself. Use study guides, online resources, and practice tests to enhance your knowledge and understanding of the material.

Seek Additional Help if Needed

If you find that you are still struggling to improve your scores, don’t hesitate to seek additional help. Consider enrolling in a prep course or working with a tutor who specializes in ASVAB preparation. They can provide personalized guidance and support to help you overcome any challenges you may be facing.

By following these steps and putting in the necessary effort and dedication, you can significantly improve your ASVAB scores and increase your chances of achieving your desired military career. Remember to stay focused, stay motivated, and believe in your ability to succeed.

Understand the ASVAB Score Categories

Armed Forces Qualification Test (AFQT) Score: This is the most important score on the ASVAB as it determines your eligibility for military service. The AFQT score is derived from four of the subtests: Arithmetic Reasoning, Word Knowledge, Paragraph Comprehension, and Mathematics Knowledge. It is expressed as a percentile, ranging from 1 to 99, with 99 being the highest possible score.
Line Scores: In addition to the AFQT score, the ASVAB also provides line scores that measure your aptitude in specific areas. These line scores are used to determine your eligibility for different military jobs. The line scores are calculated based on various combinations of the subtests.
Subtest Scores: Each subtest on the ASVAB is scored individually, measuring your proficiency in specific areas such as math, reading, and mechanical comprehension. These scores are important for identifying your strengths and weaknesses and can help guide your study efforts.

Prepare Strategically

Identify Your Weak Areas: Start by identifying the subtests or topics that you struggle with the most. This will help you prioritize your study efforts and focus on improving in those areas.
Create a Study Plan: Develop a study plan that outlines what you need to study, when you will study, and how much time you will dedicate to each topic. Breaking down your study sessions into smaller, manageable chunks can help you stay focused and make progress.
Utilize Study Resources: Take advantage of study resources such as practice tests, study guides, and online tutorials. These resources can help familiarize you with the format and content of the ASVAB, as well as provide additional practice opportunities.
Practice Time Management: The ASVAB is a timed test, so it is important to practice managing your time effectively. During your study sessions, set timers to simulate the test conditions and work on improving your speed and accuracy.
Seek Additional Help if Needed: If you are struggling with certain concepts or topics, don’t hesitate to seek additional help. Consider working with a tutor or joining a study group to get extra support and guidance.

Take Practice Tests

Familiarize Yourself with the Test Format: Practice tests can help you become familiar with the format and structure of the ASVAB. This can reduce test anxiety and help you feel more confident on test day.
Identify Areas for Improvement: By taking practice tests, you can identify your strengths and weaknesses in each subtest. This information can guide your study efforts and help you focus on areas that need improvement.
Improve Time Management Skills: Practice tests can help you develop effective time management skills. By timing yourself during practice tests, you can learn to pace yourself and ensure that you complete each section within the allotted time.
Build Test-Taking Strategies: Practice tests provide an opportunity to develop and refine test-taking strategies. You can experiment with different approaches and techniques to find what works best for you.

Review and Analyze Your Results

Identify Mistakes and Weak Areas: Go through your practice test answers and identify any mistakes or areas where you struggled. This will help you pinpoint specific topics or concepts that you need to focus on during your study sessions.
Understand the Correct Answers: Take the time to understand why certain answers are correct and why others are incorrect. This will help you deepen your understanding of the material and avoid making similar mistakes in the future.
Adjust Your Study Plan: Based on your analysis of the practice test results, make any necessary adjustments to your study plan. Allocate more time to areas where you struggled and revise your study materials accordingly.
Track Your Progress: Keep track of your progress by retaking practice tests at regular intervals. This will allow you to see how much you have improved and identify any areas that still need work.

Understand the AFQT Score

Familiarize Yourself with the AFQT Score Categories

The AFQT score is divided into four categories: Category I, Category II, Category IIIA, and Category IIIB. Each category represents a different level of qualification for military service. Category I is the highest, indicating the highest level of qualification, while Category IIIB is the lowest. Familiarize yourself with these categories to understand where you currently stand and what you need to achieve to improve your score.

Set a Target AFQT Score

To score well on the ASVAB, it is important to set a target AFQT score. This will give you a clear goal to work towards and help you stay motivated throughout your preparation. Research the requirements of the military branch you are interested in joining and determine the minimum AFQT score needed for enlistment. Aim to exceed this minimum requirement to increase your chances of getting your desired job within the military.

Identify Your Weak Areas

To improve your AFQT score, it is crucial to identify your weak areas. Review your performance on the subtests that make up the AFQT score and determine which areas you struggle with the most. This could be in arithmetic reasoning, word knowledge, paragraph comprehension, or mathematics knowledge. Once you have identified your weak areas, focus your study efforts on improving your skills in those specific areas.

Develop a Study Plan

Creating a study plan is essential for effectively preparing for the ASVAB and improving your AFQT score. Break down your study sessions into manageable chunks and allocate specific time slots for each subtest. Use study materials such as practice tests, study guides, and online resources to enhance your understanding of the content and format of the ASVAB. Regularly review your progress and adjust your study plan as needed to ensure you are making steady improvements.

By understanding the AFQT score and its significance, familiarizing yourself with the score categories, setting a target AFQT score, identifying your weak areas, and developing a study plan, you can increase your chances of scoring well on the ASVAB. Stay focused, motivated, and dedicated to your preparation, and you will be on your way to achieving your desired military career.

Understand the ASVAB Score Categories

The ASVAB score categories are divided into different sections, each measuring a specific skill set. These categories include:

Arithmetic Reasoning: This section assesses your ability to solve mathematical problems and apply mathematical concepts to real-life situations.
Word Knowledge: This section tests your vocabulary and understanding of word meanings.
Paragraph Comprehension: This section evaluates your ability to understand written passages and answer questions based on the information provided.
Mathematics Knowledge: This section measures your knowledge of mathematical concepts and principles.
General Science: This section assesses your understanding of basic scientific concepts in areas such as biology, chemistry, and physics.
Electronics Information: This section tests your knowledge of electrical circuits, electronic devices, and basic electronic principles.
Auto and Shop Information: This section evaluates your knowledge of automotive maintenance and repair, as well as basic woodworking and metalworking principles.
Mechanical Comprehension: This section measures your understanding of mechanical principles and your ability to apply them to practical situations.

Identify Your Weak Areas

Once you have a clear understanding of the ASVAB score categories, it’s important to identify your weak areas. Take a practice ASVAB test or review sample questions to determine which sections you struggle with the most. This will allow you to prioritize your study efforts and allocate more time to the areas that need improvement.

Create a Study Plan

With your weak areas identified, it’s time to create a study plan. Break down your study sessions into manageable chunks and allocate specific time slots for each ASVAB score category. Focus on one category at a time and use study materials such as textbooks, online resources, or study guides to help you review the necessary concepts.

Practice, Practice, Practice

One of the most effective ways to improve your ASVAB scores is through practice. Take advantage of online practice tests or study guides that provide sample questions for each ASVAB score category. Set aside regular study sessions to work through these practice questions and simulate the test-taking environment as much as possible.

Seek Additional Resources or Support

If you find yourself struggling with certain ASVAB score categories despite your efforts, don’t hesitate to seek additional resources or support. Consider joining a study group or seeking help from a tutor who specializes in ASVAB preparation. They can provide additional guidance, explanations, and strategies to help you improve your scores.

Remember, preparing for the ASVAB takes time and dedication. By understanding the ASVAB score categories, identifying your weak areas, creating a study plan, practicing regularly, and seeking additional support when needed, you can increase your chances of scoring well on the ASVAB and pursuing the military career of your choice.

Develop a Study Schedule

Identify Your Weak Areas

Take the time to assess your strengths and weaknesses in each ASVAB subtest. This will help you prioritize your study efforts and focus on improving in the areas where you need the most help. Use practice tests or study guides to identify the specific topics or question types that you struggle with.

Utilize Study Resources

Take advantage of the various study resources available to you. This can include textbooks, online practice tests, flashcards, and study guides. Use these resources to review the content and concepts covered in each subtest. Additionally, consider joining study groups or seeking help from tutors or mentors who can provide additional guidance and support.

Practice Regularly

Consistent practice is key to improving your performance on the ASVAB subtests. Set aside dedicated time each day to work on practice questions and problems. This will help you become familiar with the format and types of questions you can expect on the actual test. Aim to gradually increase the difficulty level of the practice questions as you become more comfortable with the material.

Review and Analyze Mistakes

When practicing, pay close attention to the mistakes you make. Take the time to review and understand why you got a question wrong. This will help you identify any gaps in your knowledge and allow you to focus on those areas during your study sessions. Keep track of your mistakes and revisit them regularly to ensure that you are continuously improving.

By following these study strategies for each ASVAB subtest, you can increase your chances of scoring well on the exam. Remember to stay disciplined, stay focused, and stay motivated throughout your study journey. With dedication and hard work, you can achieve your desired ASVAB score and pave the way for a successful military career.

Develop a Study Schedule

Prioritize Your Study Material

The ASVAB covers a wide range of subjects, so it’s important to prioritize your study material based on your strengths and weaknesses. Identify the areas where you need the most improvement and focus your time and energy on those subjects. By prioritizing your study material, you can allocate more time to areas that require additional attention, increasing your chances of scoring well on the test.

Break Down Your Study Sessions

Instead of cramming for long periods of time, break down your study sessions into shorter, focused intervals. Research has shown that shorter study sessions with regular breaks are more effective for retention and comprehension. Aim for study sessions of 25-30 minutes, followed by a 5-10 minute break. This will help you maintain focus and prevent burnout.

Utilize Study Resources

Take advantage of the various study resources available to you. This can include textbooks, online practice tests, study guides, flashcards, and tutoring services. Use these resources to supplement your learning and reinforce key concepts. Experiment with different study methods to find what works best for you, whether it’s visual aids, mnemonic devices, or group study sessions.

Stay Consistent and Motivated

Consistency is key when it comes to studying for the ASVAB. Make a commitment to stick to your study schedule and hold yourself accountable. Set realistic goals for each study session and track your progress along the way. Celebrate small victories to stay motivated and maintain a positive mindset. Remember that your hard work and dedication will pay off on test day.

By implementing these time management techniques, you can optimize your study sessions and increase your chances of scoring well on the ASVAB. Stay focused, stay motivated, and trust in your abilities. You have the power to achieve your goals and succeed on the test.

Develop a Study Schedule

Identify Your Weak Areas

Take the time to identify your weak areas in each section of the ASVAB. This will help you prioritize your study efforts and focus on improving in those specific areas. Review your practice test results or seek feedback from a tutor or study partner to pinpoint the topics or concepts that you struggle with the most. By targeting your weaknesses, you can allocate more time and resources to improving in those areas.

Utilize Study Resources

Take advantage of the various study resources available to you. This can include textbooks, online practice tests, study guides, flashcards, and video tutorials. Use a combination of resources to cater to your learning style and preferences. Practice tests, in particular, can help familiarize you with the format and types of questions you will encounter on the ASVAB. Make sure to review the explanations for any incorrect answers to understand the reasoning behind the correct responses.

Practice Time Management

Time management is crucial during the ASVAB, as you will have a limited amount of time to complete each section. Practice answering questions within the allotted time to improve your speed and accuracy. Use a timer during your study sessions to simulate the test conditions and train yourself to work efficiently. Additionally, learn to prioritize questions and skip difficult ones to ensure that you have enough time to answer all the questions.

Seek Support and Accountability

Studying for the ASVAB can be challenging, so it’s important to seek support and accountability. Find a study partner or join a study group to share resources, discuss difficult concepts, and motivate each other. Having someone to hold you accountable can help you stay on track with your study schedule and maintain your focus. Additionally, consider seeking guidance from a tutor or mentor who can provide personalized assistance and guidance throughout your preparation journey.

Understand the ASVAB Score Categories

Armed Forces Qualification Test (AFQT) Score: This score determines your eligibility for military service. It is calculated based on your scores in four ASVAB subtests: Arithmetic Reasoning, Word Knowledge, Paragraph Comprehension, and Mathematics Knowledge. The AFQT score ranges from 1 to 99, with higher scores indicating a higher qualification for military service.
Composite Scores: These scores are derived from specific combinations of ASVAB subtests and are used to assess your aptitude in various areas. Some common composite scores include the General Science (GS) score, Arithmetic Reasoning (AR) score, and Mechanical Comprehension (MC) score. Each composite score has its own range and significance.
Line Scores: Line scores are used to determine your eligibility for specific military jobs or occupational specialties. They are calculated based on combinations of ASVAB subtests related to specific job requirements. For example, the Electronics Information (EI) line score is derived from the Arithmetic Reasoning, Mathematics Knowledge, General Science, and Electronics Information subtests. Each line score has its own minimum requirement for specific job qualifications.
Individual ASVAB Subtest Scores: These scores reflect your performance in each specific ASVAB subtest. They provide a detailed breakdown of your strengths and weaknesses in different areas. Understanding your subtest scores can help you identify areas where you may need to improve or focus your study efforts.

Review Your Scores and Identify Strengths and Weaknesses

Once you receive your ASVAB scores, take the time to review them thoroughly. Pay attention to your AFQT score, composite scores, line scores, and individual subtest scores. Identify the areas where you performed well and those where you may need improvement.

By understanding your strengths and weaknesses, you can develop a targeted study plan to improve your scores in specific areas. Focus on practicing and studying the subtests that align with your desired military job or occupational specialty.

Seek Additional Resources and Study Materials

To improve your ASVAB scores, it is essential to utilize additional resources and study materials. There are numerous online resources, study guides, and practice tests available that can help you prepare for the ASVAB. These resources can provide you with valuable insights, strategies, and practice questions to enhance your knowledge and skills in the tested areas.

Consider joining study groups or seeking guidance from individuals who have successfully taken the ASVAB. They can offer valuable tips and advice based on their own experiences. Remember to stay disciplined and dedicated to your study routine to maximize your chances of scoring well on the ASVAB.

Develop a Study Plan and Practice Regularly

Creating a study plan is crucial for effectively preparing for the ASVAB. Set aside dedicated time each day or week to study and practice the different subtests. Break down your study sessions into manageable chunks, focusing on specific topics or subtest areas.

Utilize practice tests to simulate the actual testing environment and assess your progress. Identify areas where you struggle and allocate more time to practice and review those topics. Regular practice and consistent study efforts will help you build confidence and improve your performance on the ASVAB.

Seek Guidance from a Military Recruiter

If you are unsure about how to interpret your ASVAB scores or need guidance on career options, consider reaching out to a military recruiter. Recruiters are knowledgeable about the ASVAB and can provide valuable insights into the different military job opportunities available based on your scores.

A recruiter can help you understand the minimum score requirements for specific jobs and provide guidance on how to improve your scores if needed. They can also answer any questions you may have about the ASVAB and the military enlistment process.

Remember, your ASVAB scores play a significant role in determining your eligibility for military service and the job opportunities available to you. By understanding and effectively using your scores, you can increase your chances of achieving your desired military career. Stay focused, dedicated, and motivated throughout your ASVAB preparation journey.

Set Clear and Specific Goals

Create a Study Schedule

Once you have set your goals, create a study schedule that allows you to allocate dedicated time for ASVAB preparation. Determine how many hours per day or week you can commit to studying and create a schedule that fits your lifestyle. Be consistent and stick to your schedule to ensure you are making progress towards your goals.

Identify Strengths and Weaknesses

Take the time to identify your strengths and weaknesses in each ASVAB category. This will help you prioritize your study efforts and focus on areas that need improvement. Use practice tests or study guides to assess your performance in each category and make note of the areas where you struggle the most. By identifying your weaknesses, you can tailor your study plan to address those specific areas.

Utilize Study Resources

There are numerous study resources available to help you prepare for the ASVAB. Take advantage of these resources to enhance your knowledge and understanding of the test material. Use study guides, online tutorials, and practice tests to familiarize yourself with the types of questions you will encounter on the ASVAB. Additionally, consider joining study groups or seeking guidance from a tutor or mentor who can provide additional support and guidance.

Track Your Progress

Regularly track your progress to ensure you are on track to achieve your goals. Keep a record of your practice test scores, study hours, and areas of improvement. This will allow you to see your progress over time and identify any areas that may require additional attention. By tracking your progress, you can make adjustments to your study plan as needed and stay motivated as you see your scores improve.

Find a Study Guide or ASVAB Prep Book

Take Practice Tests

Taking practice tests is an essential part of ASVAB preparation. These tests can help you familiarize yourself with the types of questions you’ll encounter on the actual exam and identify areas where you may need to focus your studying. Many study guides and online resources offer practice tests that simulate the format and content of the ASVAB. Make sure to time yourself when taking these practice tests to get a sense of the pacing required on the actual exam.

Identify Your Weak Areas

After taking practice tests, take the time to review your results and identify your weak areas. Pay attention to the ASVAB score categories and determine which subjects you struggled with the most. This will help you prioritize your studying and allocate more time to those areas that need improvement. By focusing on your weak areas, you can increase your chances of scoring well on the ASVAB.

Create a Study Schedule

To effectively prepare for the ASVAB, it’s important to create a study schedule and stick to it. Set aside dedicated time each day or week to review the material and practice questions. Breaking your study sessions into smaller, manageable chunks can help prevent burnout and improve retention. Be sure to include regular breaks in your schedule to give your brain time to rest and recharge.

Seek Additional Resources or Tutoring

If you’re struggling to understand certain concepts or need additional support, don’t hesitate to seek out additional resources or tutoring. There are many online resources, videos, and forums available that can provide further explanations and examples. Additionally, consider reaching out to a tutor or joining a study group to receive personalized guidance and support. Remember, the more you understand the material, the better prepared you’ll be to score well on the ASVAB.

Set Clear Goals and Objectives

Create a Study Schedule

To score well on the ASVAB, it’s crucial to create a study schedule that allows for consistent and dedicated practice. Break down your study sessions into manageable chunks and allocate specific time slots for each category of the exam. Stick to your schedule and make studying a priority.

Utilize Study Materials and Resources

There are numerous study materials and resources available to help you prepare for the ASVAB. Take advantage of these resources to gain a comprehensive understanding of the exam content. Use textbooks, online practice tests, study guides, and flashcards to reinforce your knowledge and improve your test-taking skills.

Practice Regularly with Timed Tests

One of the key strategies for success on the ASVAB is practicing regularly with timed tests. This will help you become familiar with the format and structure of the exam, as well as improve your time management skills. Set a timer for each practice test and aim to complete it within the allotted time for each section.

Seek Additional Support and Guidance

If you find certain topics or concepts challenging, don’t hesitate to seek additional support and guidance. Consider joining study groups, working with a tutor, or seeking help from knowledgeable individuals who can provide clarification and assistance. Don’t be afraid to ask questions and seek help when needed.

By following these steps and staying committed to your study plan, you can increase your chances of scoring well on the ASVAB. Remember to stay focused, stay motivated, and believe in your ability to succeed.

Reference Tables: ASVAB Score Categories

Score Category	Description
AFQT Score	The Armed Forces Qualification Test (AFQT) score is the most important score on the ASVAB. It determines your eligibility for enlistment in the military. The AFQT score is derived from four sections of the ASVAB: Arithmetic Reasoning, Word Knowledge, Paragraph Comprehension, and Mathematics Knowledge.
Composite Scores	The ASVAB also provides composite scores, which are used to determine your qualifications for specific military jobs. These scores are calculated based on combinations of different ASVAB subtest scores. Each branch of the military has its own set of composite score requirements for various job positions.
Standard Scores	Standard scores are used to compare your performance on the ASVAB with the performance of other test takers. These scores are calculated based on your raw scores and are reported on a scale from 1 to 99. A standard score of 50 represents the average performance, while scores above 50 indicate above-average performance and scores below 50 indicate below-average performance.
Line Scores	Line scores are used by the Army to determine your eligibility for specific job positions. These scores are derived from various combinations of ASVAB subtest scores and are specific to each military job. The Army has over 150 different job positions, each with its own set of line score requirements.
Verbal Expression (VE) Score	The VE score is a combination of the Word Knowledge and Paragraph Comprehension subtest scores. It is used by the Army to determine your eligibility for certain job positions that require strong verbal communication skills.
Mechanical Comprehension (MC) Score	The MC score is based on the Mechanical Comprehension subtest score. It is used by the Army to assess your understanding of mechanical principles and your ability to work with machinery and tools.

ASVAB Score Categories for the Army

Score Category	Description
General Technical (GT) Score	The GT score is a combination of the Arithmetic Reasoning and Verbal Expression subtest scores. It is used by the Army to determine your eligibility for various job positions that require a good understanding of general technical concepts.
Combat (CO) Score	The CO score is a combination of the Word Knowledge, Paragraph Comprehension, and Arithmetic Reasoning subtest scores. It is used by the Army to assess your ability to perform in combat-related job positions.
Electronics (EL) Score	The EL score is a combination of the Arithmetic Reasoning, Mathematics Knowledge, and General Science subtest scores. It is used by the Army to determine your eligibility for job positions that involve working with electronics and electrical systems.
Skilled Technical (ST) Score	The ST score is a combination of the General Science, Word Knowledge, Paragraph Comprehension, and Mathematics Knowledge subtest scores. It is used by the Army to assess your eligibility for various skilled technical job positions.
Mechanical Maintenance (MM) Score	The MM score is a combination of the General Science, Arithmetic Reasoning, and Mechanical Comprehension subtest scores. It is used by the Army to determine your eligibility for job positions that involve mechanical maintenance and repair.
Surveillance and Communications (SC) Score	The SC score is a combination of the Word Knowledge, Paragraph Comprehension, Arithmetic Reasoning, and Coding Speed subtest scores. It is used by the Army to assess your eligibility for job positions that involve surveillance and communications tasks.

ASVAB Score Categories for the Navy

Score Category	Description
Navy Advanced Programs (NAP) Score	The NAP score is a combination of the Arithmetic Reasoning, Mathematics Knowledge, and Electronics Information subtest scores. It is used by the Navy to determine your eligibility for advanced technical job positions.
General Science (GS) Score	The GS score is based on the General Science subtest score. It is used by the Navy to assess your understanding of scientific concepts and your ability to apply them in various job positions.
Mechanical Comprehension (MC) Score	The MC score is based on the Mechanical Comprehension subtest score. It is used by the Navy to evaluate your understanding of mechanical principles and your ability to work with machinery and tools.
Electronics Information (EI) Score	The EI score is based on the Electronics Information subtest score. It is used by the Navy to determine your eligibility for job positions that involve working with electronics and electrical systems.
Arithmetic Reasoning (AR) Score	The AR score is based on the Arithmetic Reasoning subtest score. It is used by the Navy to assess your ability to solve mathematical problems and apply mathematical concepts in various job positions.
Auto and Shop Information (AS) Score	The AS score is based on the Auto and Shop Information subtest score. It is used by the Navy to evaluate your knowledge of automotive and shop-related concepts, which is important for certain job positions.

ASVAB Score Categories for the Air Force

Score Category	Description
Air Force Qualification Test (AFQT) Score	The AFQT score is the most important score for the Air Force. It is derived from the Arithmetic Reasoning, Word Knowledge, Paragraph Comprehension, and Mathematics Knowledge subtest scores. The AFQT score determines your eligibility for enlistment in the Air Force.
General Science (GS) Score	The GS score is based on the General Science subtest score. It is used by the Air Force to assess your understanding of scientific concepts and your ability to apply them in various job positions.
Arithmetic Reasoning (AR) Score	The AR score is based on the Arithmetic Reasoning subtest score. It is used by the Air Force to evaluate your ability to solve mathematical problems and apply mathematical concepts in various job positions.
Word Knowledge (WK) Score	The WK score is based on the Word Knowledge subtest score. It is used by the Air Force to assess your vocabulary and understanding of word meanings, which is important for communication in various job positions.
Paragraph Comprehension (PC) Score	The PC score is based on the Paragraph Comprehension subtest score. It is used by the Air Force to evaluate your reading comprehension skills, which are important for understanding written instructions and information in various job positions.
Mathematics Knowledge (MK) Score	The MK score is based on the Mathematics Knowledge subtest score. It is used by the Air Force to assess your mathematical knowledge and ability to apply mathematical concepts in various job positions.

ASVAB Score Categories for the Marine Corps

Score Category	Description
Marine Corps Composite Score	The Marine Corps uses a composite score that combines the Arithmetic Reasoning, Mathematics Knowledge, Word Knowledge, and Paragraph Comprehension subtest scores. This composite score is used to determine your eligibility for various job positions in the Marine Corps.
Electronics Repair (EL) Score	The EL score is based on the Electronics Information and Mathematics Knowledge subtest scores. It is used by the Marine Corps to assess your ability to work with electronics and electrical systems in job positions related to electronics repair.
Mechanical Maintenance (MM) Score	The MM score is based on the Mechanical Comprehension and Mathematics Knowledge subtest scores. It is used by the Marine Corps to evaluate your understanding of mechanical principles and your ability to perform mechanical maintenance tasks.
General Technical (GT) Score	The GT score is a combination of the Arithmetic Reasoning and Verbal Expression subtest scores. It is used by the Marine Corps to determine your eligibility for various job positions that require a good understanding of general technical concepts.
Skilled Technical (ST) Score	The ST score is a combination of the General Science, Word Knowledge, Paragraph Comprehension, and Mathematics Knowledge subtest scores. It is used by the Marine Corps to assess your eligibility for various skilled technical job positions.
Mechanical Maintenance and Repair (MMR) Score	The MMR score is based on the Mechanical Comprehension, Auto and Shop Information, and Mathematics Knowledge subtest scores. It is used by the Marine Corps to determine your eligibility for job positions that involve mechanical maintenance and repair.

ASVAB Score Categories for the Coast Guard

Score Category	Description
Coast Guard Qualification Test (CGQT) Score	The CGQT score is the most important score for the Coast Guard. It is derived from the Arithmetic Reasoning, Word Knowledge, Paragraph Comprehension, and Mathematics Knowledge subtest scores. The CGQT score determines your eligibility for enlistment in the Coast Guard.
Mechanical Comprehension (MC) Score	The MC score is based on the Mechanical Comprehension subtest score. It is used by the Coast Guard to evaluate your understanding of mechanical principles and your ability to work with machinery and tools.
Electronics Information (EI) Score	The EI score is based on the Electronics Information subtest score. It is used by the Coast Guard to determine your eligibility for job positions that involve working with electronics and electrical systems.
Arithmetic Reasoning (AR) Score	The AR score is based on the Arithmetic Reasoning subtest score. It is used by the Coast Guard to assess your ability to solve mathematical problems and apply mathematical concepts in various job positions.
Word Knowledge (WK) Score	The WK score is based on the Word Knowledge subtest score. It is used by the Coast Guard to assess your vocabulary and understanding of word meanings, which is important for communication in various job positions.
Paragraph Comprehension (PC) Score	The PC score is based on the Paragraph Comprehension subtest score. It is used by the Coast Guard to evaluate your reading comprehension skills, which are important for understanding written instructions and information in various job positions.

What are the 4 categories of the ASVAB?

The ASVAB (Armed Services Vocational Aptitude Battery) consists of four main categories: Arithmetic Reasoning, Word Knowledge, Paragraph Comprehension, and Mathematics Knowledge. These categories assess your abilities in different areas and help determine your eligibility for various military occupations.

What are the categories of ASVAB scores?

ASVAB scores are categorized into different areas to provide a comprehensive evaluation of your abilities. The categories include the Armed Forces Qualification Test (AFQT) score, which determines your eligibility for military service, as well as line scores that assess your proficiency in specific job-related areas.

How do I interpret my ASVAB scores?

Interpreting your ASVAB scores involves understanding the different categories and their corresponding scores. The AFQT score, ranging from 1 to 99, indicates your overall eligibility for military service. Line scores, on the other hand, reflect your aptitude in specific job areas. Higher scores generally indicate a greater proficiency in those areas.

What is Category 2 on ASVAB?

Category 2 on the ASVAB refers to the Armed Forces Qualification Test (AFQT) score range of 31-49. This category indicates that an individual has achieved a moderate level of eligibility for military service. While it may limit some job options, there are still various opportunities available within this category.

How to Score Well on the ASVAB: ASVAB Score Categories Explained

FAQ

What is the ASVAB?

The ASVAB (Armed Services Vocational Aptitude Battery) is a multiple-choice test used to assess an individual’s abilities and aptitudes for various military occupations. It measures strengths and weaknesses in areas such as math, science, reading comprehension, and mechanical knowledge.

What are the score categories on the ASVAB?

The ASVAB has several score categories, including the AFQT (Armed Forces Qualification Test) score, which determines eligibility for military service. Other score categories include the composite scores, which are used to determine specific job qualifications within the military.

What is the AFQT score?

The AFQT score is the most important score on the ASVAB. It is derived from four of the ASVAB subtests: Arithmetic Reasoning, Word Knowledge, Paragraph Comprehension, and Mathematics Knowledge. The AFQT score ranges from 1 to 99 and represents the percentage of test-takers that an individual scored higher than.

How is the AFQT score used?

The AFQT score is used to determine an individual’s eligibility for military service. Different branches of the military have different minimum AFQT score requirements. A higher AFQT score increases the range of job opportunities available within the military.

What are composite scores?

Composite scores on the ASVAB are used to determine an individual’s qualifications for specific military jobs. These scores are calculated based on combinations of ASVAB subtest scores. Each military job has its own required composite score, and meeting or exceeding that score is necessary for eligibility.

How are composite scores calculated?

Composite scores are calculated by combining specific ASVAB subtest scores. Each military job has its own required combination of subtest scores. The formulas used to calculate composite scores vary depending on the branch of the military.

How can I improve my ASVAB scores?

To improve your ASVAB scores, it is important to study and prepare. Familiarize yourself with the content and format of the test by using study guides and practice tests. Focus on areas where you may be weaker and seek additional resources or tutoring if needed. Consistent practice and dedication can lead to improved scores.

Are there any tips for test day?

On test day, it is important to arrive well-rested and prepared. Make sure to eat a nutritious meal beforehand and bring any necessary identification or paperwork. Read each question carefully and manage your time effectively. If you are unsure of an answer, it is better to make an educated guess than to leave it blank.

Can I retake the ASVAB if I am not satisfied with my scores?

Yes, you can retake the ASVAB if you are not satisfied with your scores. However, there are certain restrictions on how soon you can retake the test. It is important to check with your recruiter or the testing center for specific guidelines and requirements.

How long are ASVAB scores valid?

ASVAB scores are valid for two years. If you decide to join the military within that time frame, your scores will be used for enlistment purposes. After two years, you may be required to retake the ASVAB if you wish to join the military.