ASVAB

ASVAB
The Armed Services Vocational Aptitude Battery (ASVAB) is a multiple choice test, administered by the United States Military Entrance Processing Command (MEPS), used to determine qualification for enlistment in the United States Armed Forces. In addition to determining eligibility, the test also determines jobs available to you in each service and enlistment bonus incentives, so you will want to do your best when taking the ASVAB.

ASVAB Information

How can I prepare for the ASVAB?

First, the ASVAB measures your accumulated knowledge in different areas. So if you are currently in school, stay focused and study hard. Your overall knowledge gained in school will most likely be reflected in your ASVAB score. Second, though accumulated knowledge is important, you may be able to raise your score by preparing specifically for the ASVAB, especially in areas where you are weak. Various study guides are available for this purpose (listed left).

What is the minimum score?

To enlist in the military you must achieve a certain score on the ASVAB to be eligible for enlistment, though a waiver may be granted in some circumstances. Required ASVAB entrance scores by service:

Army: 31
Marines: 32
Navy: 35
Coast Guard: 36
Air Force: 36
(entrance scores subject to change)

ASVAB VERSIONS

There are three versions for the ASVAB test:
1. High School/Student Version

The test is offered at high schools throughout the United States to help students and teachers assess verbal, math, science and technical skills. See http://www.asvabprogram.com for more information.

THE EIGHT STUDENT ASVAB TEST AREAS ARE:
1. General Science
A 25-item test measuring knowledge of life science, earth and space science, and physical science
2. Arithmetic Reasoning
A 30-item test measuring ability to solve basic arithmetic word problems
3. Word Knowledge
A 35-item test measuring ability to understand the meaning of words through synonyms
4. Paragraph Comprehension
A 15-item test measuring ability to obtain information from written material
5. Mathematics Knowledge
A 25-item test measuring knowledge of mathematical concepts and applications
6. Electronics Information
A 20-item test measuring knowledge of electrical current, circuits, devices, and electronic systems
7. Auto and Shop Information
A 25-item test measuring knowledge of automotive maintenance and repair, and wood and metal shop practices
8. Mechanical Comprehension
A 25-item test measuring knowledge of the principles of mechanical devices, structural support, and properties of materials

2. CAT-ASVAB (Computer Adaptive Test)

Most potential military recruits now take this version, which is taken on a computer. Computer adaptive testing means that if you get a question right, then the next question is harder, and if you get a question wrong, then the next question is easier.

THE TEN CAT-ASVAB TEST AREAS ARE:
1. General Science
2. Arithmetic Reasoning
3. Word Knowledge
4. Paragraph Comprehension
5. Mathematics Knowledge
6. Electronics Information
7. Auto Information
8. Shop Information
9. Mechanical Comprehension
10. Assembling Objects

3. MET-ASVAB (Mobile Examination Test)

This is the U.S. Military's pen and paper ASVAB test. Fewer potential recruits are taking this test, as most are now taking the CAT-ASVAB (above).
THE NINE MET-ASVAB TEST AREAS ARE:
1. General Science
2. Arithmetic Reasoning
3. Word Knowledge
4. Paragraph Comprehension
5. Mathematics Knowledge
6. Electronics Information
7. Auto and Shop Information
8. Mechanical Comprehension
9. Assembling Objects