Lesson 7 – Requirement: ASVAB Test Score and Career Options

The ASVAB test score shapes a person’s military path. It shows what jobs a recruit can do well. The test covers math, words, science, and technical skills. Scores guide both entry and job choice.

A recruit’s main score, called the AFQT, decides if they can join. A higher AFQT score opens more branches and roles. Other scores, called line or composite scores, matter for specific jobs.

Knowing score rules lets recruits plan. They can target jobs they like. They can prepare to reach the needed scores. Good planning leads to faster placement in the right role.

How ASVAB Scores Affect MOS Eligibility

ASVAB results produce many scores. Each score uses parts of the test. The main AFQT score uses only four subtests: Word Knowledge, Paragraph Comprehension, Arithmetic Reasoning, and Mathematics Knowledge. Other composite scores mix different subtests.

Each job, or MOS (Military Occupational Specialty), has a line score requirement. If a recruit meets that need, they can sign up. If not, they pick another job or retake the test. Some jobs have higher score needs than others. Here is how it works:

• AFQT for Entry: AFQT is the gate. Each branch sets its own minimum (for example, Army 31, Marines 32).
• Line Scores for Jobs: Each MOS has one line score requirement. A line score is a sum of selected subtests.
• Minimum vs. Competitive: Some jobs need only the minimum. Others, especially tech roles, need a high line score.
• Score Sharing: A single test gives all needed scores at once. There is no extra exam for line scores.
• Score Report: Recruits get a paper or digital report. It shows AFQT and all line scores.
• Job List: Recruiters have a list of MOS codes and their required line scores.
• Job Fit: Recruits can see which jobs match their high scores.
• Weight of Scores: Some jobs weigh math more. Others weigh verbal or technical.
• Skill Matching: Scores guide placement into roles that match talent.

Learn how your AFQT score determines enlistment eligibility and opens MOS choices on the official ASVAB enlistment page: https://www.officialasvab.com/applicants/enlistment-eligibility/

Understanding Composite (“Line”) Scores

Composite scores combine subtest results to focus on job skills. The Army uses eight composite categories. Each branch has its own scheme. In the Army, the categories include General Technical (GT), Skilled Technical (ST), and Combat (CO). Each category uses two or three subtests.

For example:

• GT (General Technical): Word Knowledge + Paragraph Comprehension + Arithmetic Reasoning.
• ST (Skilled Technical): Arithmetic Reasoning + Mathematics Knowledge + Electronics Information.
• CO (Combat): General Science + Arithmetic Reasoning + Mechanical Comprehension.

A recruit’s raw subtest scores are converted to scaled scores, then added for each composite. The sum decides if they meet the line score. Each line score has a minimum value needed for a given MOS.

Key points on composite scores:

• Multiple Mix: Each composite score uses different subtests.
• Scaled Scores: Raw question counts turn into scaled scores.
• Summation: Composite equals sum of relevant scaled scores.
• Branch Differences: Navy and Air Force use different composites.
• Updates: Composite formulas can change over time.
• Job Guide: The MOS listing shows required line scores by composite.
• Score Goals: Recruits can aim for specific composite scores.
• Skill Focus: GT aims at verbal and math skills. ST aims at technical skills.
• Role Clarity: Knowing composites helps target study on needed subtests.

See exactly how each composite score is calculated and which subtests feed into each line score on the official ASVAB subtests overview: https://www.officialasvab.com/counselors-educators/subtests/

High-Demand Roles and Incentives

Some jobs are always in demand. The military needs tech, medical, and intel skills. These roles may carry enlistment bonuses. They may even have extra cash for high line scores.

High-demand examples include:

• Cyber Security: Requires high ST or EL (Electronics) score.
• Network Management: Needs high GT score.
• Combat Medic: Needs a strong ST or CO composite.
• Aircraft Maintenance: Needs strong Mechanical and Electronics scores.
• Intelligence Analyst: Needs strong verbal and math scores.

Bonuses and incentives:

• Sign-On Bonus: Cash for enlisting in critical MOS.
• Score Bonus: Extra money if line score exceeds a high threshold.
• Reenlistment Bonus: Cash for staying in shortage fields.
• Loan Repayment: Some fields pay off student loans.
• Special Pay: Extra monthly pay for tech and intel roles.

Key facts:

• Branch Lists: Each branch publishes demand jobs.
• Bonus Amounts: Vary from $5,000 to over $50,000.
• Score Tiers: Higher line scores may qualify for bigger bonuses.
• Limited Slots: Only a set number of bonuses per year.
• Recruiter Advice: Discuss bonus fields early with a recruiter.
• Contract Terms: Bonuses come with service obligations.

Find current enlistment bonuses and incentive pay for critical MOS fields on the Army’s bonus information page: https://myarmybenefits.us.army.mil/Benefit-Library/Federal-Benefits/Bonuses?serv=122

Planning Realistic Career Goals

Clear goals start with knowing score needs. Recruits can list top three desired MOS. They then compare needed composites to their ASVAB report. If scores are low, they can study to raise them.

Planning steps:

1. List Desired MOS: Write down three or more job codes.
2. Check Requirements: Note the required line scores for each.
3. Compare Scores: Match your composites to those needs.
4. Identify Gaps: Find low subtests affecting key composites.
5. Set Score Targets: Aim 5–10 points above minimum.
6. Study Plan: Make a schedule for practice tests and review.
7. Take Practice Tests: This will lower your stress level when you take the actual test.  The purpose is to obtain the score you need for your dream job. Take several practice tests until you obtain the required score. After you obtain the required score on the practice test, then take the real test. This is a critical step you must take.
8. Backup Jobs: Choose alternate MOS with lower requirements.
9. Timeline: Plan retake date if needed.
10. Recruiter Check-In: Update recruiter on plan and progress.
11. Goal Adjustment: Revise goals if scores change.

Tips for goal setting:

• Be Honest: Only pick MOS you can study for.
• Be Flexible: Have a second and third choice.
• Be Proactive: Study starts before test day.
• Be Informed: Keep score requirements updated.
• Be Ready to Adjust: If scores change, change goals.

Use the ASVAB score interpretation guide to match your scores to available career fields and set targets: https://www.officialasvab.com/applicants/scores/

Retesting Rules and Policies

If scores fall short, recruits can retake the ASVAB. Rules keep retests fair. Recruiters guide through the process.

Retest policy:

• First Retest: Wait 30 days after the initial test.
• Second Retest: Wait another 30 days after first retest.
• Third Retest: Wait 180 days after second retest.
• Score Validity: All retest scores replace old ones.
• Limit: Only three tests in two years.
• Approval: Recruiter must sign off on retest.

Retest tips:

• Retest Reasons: Only if needed for desired MOS.
• Study Period: Use wait time to practice.
• Mock Tests: Take timed practice tests under test-like conditions.
• Address Weaknesses: Focus on low subtest areas.
• Stay Motivated: Set small goals for subtest gains.

Review the official retesting schedule, waiting periods, and score validity policies in the ASVAB FAQs section: https://www.officialasvab.com/applicants/faqs/

Role of Career Counselors

Career counselors help interpret scores and match jobs. They know all MOS requirements and waiver options. They guide recruits through retesting and line score uses.

Counselor services:

• Score Review: Go over AFQT and all line scores.
• Job Matching: Suggest MOS that fit scores.
• Plan Mapping: Create a plan from test to job assignment.
• Resource Sharing: Provide study guides and tools.
• Retest Support: Help schedule and approve retests.
• Waiver Guidance: Explain rules for needed waivers.
• Application Aid: Assist with MOS application forms.
• Progress Tracking: Check study progress and test readiness.
• Career Talks: Discuss long-term career goals.
• Transition Planning: Link MOS skills to civilian jobs.

Explore resources for recruiters and educators—plus guidance tools to help you interpret scores and choose MOS—on the ASVAB counselors page: https://www.officialasvab.com/counselors-educators/

Strategic Preparation to Boost Scores

Good preparation is key to higher scores. A clear study plan, quality tools, and steady practice add up. Simple daily work beats cramming.

Prep steps:

• Set Daily Goals: Five to ten flash cards per day.
• Use Practice Books: One subtest per week until mastery.
• Timed Sections: Practice under real test timing.
• Online Drills: Short quizzes for quick feedback.
• Group Study: Teach each other weak topics.
• Tutoring Sessions: Focus on hardest subtests.
• Rest Days: Give brain breaks to avoid burnout.
• Healthy Habits: Good sleep and nutrition aid memory.
• Mock Test Day: Simulate a full test environment.
• Progress Check: Compare new practice scores to old.

Find step-by-step study tips, practice tests, and preparation advice on the ASVAB “What to Expect” and prep page: https://www.officialasvab.com/applicants/prepare/

Sample MOS and Required Composite Categories

Browse every Army MOS with its line score requirements and career descriptions on the GoArmy career fields page: https://recruiting.army.mil/ISO/AWOR/ARMYMOS/

ASVAB scores shape every recruit’s military path. The AFQT sets entry, and line scores guide job choice. High scores open more roles and bonuses. Clear study, smart goals, and counselor help boost scores. Retesting rules allow extra chances. By knowing requirements and planning wisely, recruits match skills to rewarding MOS. This sets the stage for a strong military career and future civilian success.

Lesson Summary:

ASVAB scores open the door to a wide range of military jobs. The AFQT score decides if you can enlist. Composite, or “line,” scores match you to specific MOS roles. Each job has its own score requirements based on the skills it needs. High-demand specialties often offer enlistment bonuses for higher scores. If your scores fall short, you can retake the ASVAB after set waiting periods. Career counselors help you understand your scores and pick jobs that fit your strengths. Take practice tests to improve your chances of scoring well on the actual test. This is a critical step and an important takeaway for this lesson. With strategic study—using practice tests, flash cards, and timed drills—you can boost weak areas and aim for your top job choices. Retesting rules gives you up to three chances in two years. By knowing the score rules, planning goals, and working with a counselor, you can find the best role and set yourself up for a rewarding military career.

Apply this to your personal life:

• Have you begun reviewing the ASVAB study materials from the last lesson, and if not, will you start that process today?
• Have you started studying for the ASVAB and scheduled a date within the next two weeks to take a full practice exam?
• When you review your practice test score, compare it to the scores required for the positions you have identified. Does your score meet the minimum requirement, or do you need to continue preparing and take another practice exam?
• How will you work with a career counselor to review your scores, explore waiver options if needed, and map out a clear path to your chosen MOS?