The ASVAB exam is the first step for many Americans who want to join the U.S. military or assess career aptitudes. This clear, practical guide explains test sections, AFQT scoring, a focused 30-day study plan, and tested tactics you can use today.
What is the ASVAB exam?
The ASVAB exam (Armed Services Vocational Aptitude Battery) is a multiple-aptitude test used to evaluate skills and predict success in military jobs. Recruiters and career counselors use it both for enlistment eligibility and job classification.
Test format and the nine subtests
The ASVAB measures verbal, math, science/technical, and spatial aptitudes across these core subtests:
- General Science (GS)
- Arithmetic Reasoning (AR)
- Word Knowledge (WK)
- Paragraph Comprehension (PC)
- Mathematics Knowledge (MK)
- Electronics Information (EI)
- Auto & Shop Information (AS)
- Mechanical Comprehension (MC)
- Assembling Objects (AO)
There are two common formats: the adaptive computer version and the paper-and-pencil version. The adaptive format adjusts question difficulty as you answer.
- CAT-ASVAB (Computer Adaptive Test) → Adaptive questions, faster (around 2 hours), no going back.
- P&P-ASVAB (Paper & Pencil) → 3 hours, no adaptive scoring, but you can revisit questions.
Pro Tip: Focus extra effort on the four AFQT subjects, since they carry the most weight for enlistment.
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ASVAB FAQ
What does it cost to take the ASVAB?
Good news, the ASVAB is free. There’s no charge to take the test.
What should I bring on test day?
Bring a valid photo ID and, if you’re taking the paper test, a simple watch to keep track of time. Don’t bring personal supplies (pencils, phones, etc.) and calculators are not allowed.
How is the ASVAB scored?
Scores are reported as percentiles from 1–99. A score of 73, for example, means you performed as well as or better than 73% of the reference group (18–23 year olds).
What kinds of jobs can the ASVAB lead to?
The ASVAB opens doors across all five branches (Army, Navy, Marine Corps, Air Force, Coast Guard) and their active, reserve, and guard units. Jobs range from technical roles (like telephone technician) to support and specialty roles (military police, journalist, dental specialist even niche positions like musician). Each job has different advancement paths based on performance and time in service.
Am I eligible to take the ASVAB?
A recruiter will check your eligibility. Factors like age, health, and criminal history can affect whether you qualify. If you’re cleared, the recruiter will schedule your test.
Can students take the ASVAB?
Yes. High school and postsecondary students can take a Career Exploration version of the paper test through the DoD program. It’s the same as the enlistment paper test except it excludes the Assembling Objects section. High AFQT scores from this test can be used to enlist within a two-year window.
How many times can I retake the ASVAB?
You can retake the ASVAB twice after waiting one month between attempts. After those two retakes, you must wait six months for any further attempts.
Why does the ASVAB matter?
Your ASVAB score determines if you can enlist and which military jobs you’re eligible for. It’s also a helpful tool for career planning, civilian or military.
What salary can I expect in the military?
Pay depends on rank and years of service. Everyone has base pay, and some roles get extra bonuses (hazard pay or special-duty pay). Housing allowances or on-base housing are often provided. (Note: military pay saw a 5.2% across-the-board increase in 2024.)
When is the ASVAB offered?
The ASVAB is administered year-round. Recruiters schedule enlistment tests, and schools announce dates for student testing.
How long does the test take?
CAT-ASVAB (computer adaptive): Usually about 2 hours. The CAT adapts to your answers: correct answers lead to harder questions, incorrect answers lead to easier ones which is why it typically finishes faster.
Paper & Pencil (MET sites / schools): ~3 hours.