ASVAB Scoring Guide
How scores are calculated, what they mean, and how to reach your goal score.
Scoring Overview
The AFQT (Armed Forces Qualification Test) is a percentile score 1–99 comparing you to a national sample. It combines AR + MK + PC + WK scores. Line scores (GT, CL, EL, etc.) determine MOS/rating eligibility for specific jobs.
Score Scale
| Section | Duration | Max Score |
|---|---|---|
| Arithmetic Reasoning | 36 min | 30 |
| Word Knowledge | 9 min | 35 |
| Paragraph Comprehension | 27 min | 15 |
| Mathematics Knowledge | 24 min | 25 |
| General Science | 11 min | 25 |
Section Breakdown
afqt
AFQT core — the four sections that determine basic enlistment eligibility.
Arithmetic Reasoning (word problems)Math Knowledge (algebra, geometry)Paragraph Comprehension (reading)Word Knowledge (vocabulary)
technical
Technical subtests — determine job eligibility.
Auto & Shop InformationElectronics InformationMechanical ComprehensionAssembling ObjectsScienceCoding Speed (paper only)
Key Facts
- Subtests
- 10 subtests
- Duration
- ~3 hours (CAT-ASVAB) or 3h 34m (paper)
- Minimum AFQT
- 31–36 by branch (higher for some)
- Cost
- Free (administered by military)
- Retake wait
- 30 days first retake, then 6 months
- Valid
- 2 years for enlistment
Study Tips
- 1.AFQT is king — focus on AR, MK, PC, and WK first.
- 2.Use Kaplan ASVAB Prep or Trivium Test Prep; both include full-length practice tests.
- 3.Build vocabulary daily: learn 10 root words per day (pref-, sub-, ex-, etc.).
- 4.For mechanical comprehension, watch YouTube videos on simple machines — visual learning helps.
- 5.Mental math speed matters — practice multiplication tables and percentage shortcuts.
- 6.Don't neglect science subtests if you're targeting technical jobs (cyber, nuclear, avionics).