ASVAB Test Overview
The ASVAB is a multiple-choice aptitude test used by the U.S. Armed Forces to help determine enlistment eligibility, military job qualification, and career exploration options.
What Is the ASVAB?
The Armed Services Vocational Aptitude Battery, or ASVAB, is a test that measures aptitude in several academic, technical, and spatial skill areas. For applicants interested in military service, ASVAB results help determine enlistment eligibility and possible military job qualification.
The ASVAB is also offered to many high school and post-secondary students through the ASVAB Career Exploration Program. Taking the ASVAB through a school program can help students explore civilian and military career options, but it does not require a student to join the military.
Key point: the ASVAB is not just one score. Candidates receive individual subtest scores, and military applicants also receive an AFQT score used for enlistment eligibility.
What Is on the ASVAB?
The ASVAB measures aptitude in four major domains: Verbal, Math, Science and Technical, and Spatial. The subtests are presented in a set order.
Verbal
- Word Knowledge
- Paragraph Comprehension
Math
- Arithmetic Reasoning
- Mathematics Knowledge
Science and Technical
- General Science
- Electronics Information
- Auto Information
- Shop Information
- Mechanical Comprehension
Spatial
- Assembling Objects
| Subtest | Abbreviation | What It Measures |
|---|---|---|
| General Science | GS | Physical and biological sciences |
| Arithmetic Reasoning | AR | Arithmetic word problems |
| Word Knowledge | WK | Vocabulary and word meaning |
| Paragraph Comprehension | PC | Reading comprehension |
| Mathematics Knowledge | MK | High school mathematics principles |
| Electronics Information | EI | Electricity and electronics |
| Auto Information | AI | Automobile technology |
| Shop Information | SI | Tools, shop terminology, and shop practices |
| Mechanical Comprehension | MC | Mechanical and physical principles |
| Assembling Objects | AO | How an object will look when parts are assembled |
Note: Auto Information and Shop Information are separate subtests on the computer version. On the paper-and-pencil version, they are combined into one Auto & Shop Information subtest.
ASVAB Test Formats
The ASVAB may be given in different formats depending on your testing situation, location, recruiter, school, or program.
CAT-ASVAB
The CAT-ASVAB is the computerized adaptive version of the test. Because it is adaptive, the computer selects questions based on the test taker’s performance.
Paper-and-Pencil ASVAB
The paper version is given at a smaller number of testing locations. Test takers work through the exam at the same pace.
PiCAT
The PiCAT is an unproctored version of the CAT-ASVAB that can be taken from home or another approved location. Candidates must work with a recruiter to take the PiCAT.
How Is the ASVAB Scored?
Individual ASVAB subtests are reported as Standard Scores. A Standard Score shows how a test taker performed compared with a national reference group.
Candidates also receive an Armed Forces Qualification Test, or AFQT, score. The AFQT score is based on four ASVAB subtests:
AFQT Subtests
- Arithmetic Reasoning
- Mathematics Knowledge
- Paragraph Comprehension
- Word Knowledge
AFQT scores are reported as percentiles from 1 to 99. A percentile score shows how the test taker performed compared with the reference group. For example, an AFQT score of 50 means the test taker scored as well as or better than 50% of the reference group.
Each military branch sets and applies its own enlistment and job-qualification rules. Because those requirements can change, candidates should confirm current score requirements with a recruiter.
How Do I Register for the ASVAB?
Applicants who are interested in military service should contact a local military recruiter. The recruiter reviews basic eligibility, explains the testing process, and helps schedule the ASVAB.
Students who take the ASVAB through a school usually do so as part of the ASVAB Career Exploration Program. School-based testing is coordinated through the school or program staff.
What Should I Expect on Test Day?
For testing at a MEPS or MET site, bring valid identification and arrive on time. Candidates who arrive late may be turned away and required to reschedule.
Bring ID
Bring the identification required by your recruiter or testing instructions.
No calculator
Calculators are not allowed on the ASVAB.
Follow instructions
Follow all directions from the test administrator and complete every subtest.
Your recruiter may help you get to the testing location, but the recruiter is not allowed in the testing room.
Can I Retake the ASVAB?
Yes, but waiting periods apply. Candidates must wait one month between the initial ASVAB and the first retest. Another one-month wait is required before a second retest. After that, a six-month wait is required between additional retests.
Special rules may apply if a test is invalidated, if a confirmation test is required, or if there is a large AFQT score increase within a short period. Candidates should follow the current retest instructions provided by their recruiter.
How Can I Prepare for the ASVAB?
Start by learning the ASVAB subtests and identifying which areas are strongest and weakest. The AFQT score depends on Arithmetic Reasoning, Mathematics Knowledge, Paragraph Comprehension, and Word Knowledge, so those areas deserve special attention if enlistment eligibility is your main concern.
Then review the science, technical, mechanical, electronics, auto, shop, and spatial topics that may affect job qualification. These sections can influence which military occupational specialties or training paths may be available.
ASVAB Study Checklist
- Review Arithmetic Reasoning and Mathematics Knowledge.
- Practice Word Knowledge and Paragraph Comprehension.
- Study science, mechanical, electronics, auto, shop, and spatial topics.
- Practice without using a calculator.
- Review missed questions carefully so you understand what went wrong.
ASVAB FAQ
Can you use a calculator on the ASVAB?
No. Calculators are not allowed on the ASVAB.
Is the ASVAB timed?
Yes. Each subtest is timed. The exact timing depends on whether the test is the CAT-ASVAB, the paper-and-pencil ASVAB, or the PiCAT.
What is the AFQT?
The AFQT is a score based on Arithmetic Reasoning, Mathematics Knowledge, Paragraph Comprehension, and Word Knowledge. It is used to help determine enlistment eligibility.
Is the ASVAB only for people joining the military?
No. The ASVAB is also used in the ASVAB Career Exploration Program for students who are exploring career options. However, applicants who want to enlist in the military must take the ASVAB or an approved version of it.
ASVAB Study Resources
Free ASVAB Practice:
Top Study Guides:
Best Online Course:
High-Quality Flashcards:
ASVAB®, Armed Services Vocational Aptitude Battery®, AFQT®, CAT-ASVAB®, and PiCAT® are terms associated with U.S. military testing programs. Mometrix Media LLC and StudyGuideZone.com are not affiliated with or endorsed by the U.S. Armed Forces, Department of Defense, U.S. Military Entrance Processing Command, or any official military testing authority.
