The ASVAB (Armed Services Vocational Aptitude Battery (ASVAB)) is a timed multiple-aptitude battery test given to 14000 schools that measure aptitude and developed abilities which can be used to help predict future occupational and academic success in the military. The scores gained here are used to determine eligibility for military occupational specialties (MOS) and enlistment bonuses. Like any other qualification test, you might be wondering how many times you can take the ASVAB test once you fail.
In this blog, we’ll explore the rules, limitations, and important considerations for retaking the ASVAB, so you can plan your test-taking strategy effectively.
Understanding the ASVAB
The Armed Services Vocational Aptitude Battery (ASVAB) is a multiple-choice test used to determine qualification for enlistment in the United States military. It assesses a candidate’s strengths and weaknesses across various subjects, helping to identify roles for which they may be well-suited in different branches of the military. The ASVAB covers nine subject areas, each designed to assess different skills.
How Many Times Can You Take the ASVAB?
The short answer to this question is that there’s no limit to how many times you can take the ASVAB. The U.S. military allows candidates to retake the ASVAB as many times as they like if they are not satisfied with their initial scores. However, there are specific waiting periods and limitations on how often you can retake the test within a given timeframe:
Initial Test and First Retake
After their first take, candidates must wait at least 30 days before they are allowed again to retake the test. The 30-day period allows the candidate to have more preparation time to help improve their score and performance on their next try.
Second Retake
If After their second retake, the candidate is still not satisfied with their score and wishes to retake, they must wait 60 days before taking the ASVAB for the third time. This longer waiting period is designed to encourage candidates to take the necessary time to prepare more thoroughly.
Maximum Retakes Allowed
Though a candidate is allowed to have unlimited attempts to take the test, the military limits the number of ASVAB retakes to a maximum of three times in a one-year period. After their third attempt and still wish to retake the exam, wait an additional 6 months before attempting the ASVAB again.
What Happens If You Fail the ASVAB?
Like any other test, failing the ASVAB can be discouraging but you need to understand what failure actually means for this test. Technically, there is no “fail” in the traditional sense when it comes to the ASVAB. However, each branch of the military has minimum score requirements on the Armed Forces Qualification Test (AFQT), which is a subset of the ASVAB. If you do not meet these minimum score requirements, you may not be eligible for enlistment in your desired branch or for the specific military job you’re aiming for.
For example:
- Army: Requires a minimum AFQT score of 31.
- Navy: Requires a minimum AFQT score of 35.
- Air Force: Requires a minimum AFQT score of 36.
- Marine Corps: Requires a minimum AFQT score of 32.
If you don’t meet the minimum AFQT score for your chosen branch, you may be considered ineligible for enlistment at that time.
Tips for Improving ASVAB Scores Before Retaking
There are a lot of effective strategies that can help you improve before your next attempt with the exam, with the right mindset and preparation, you can boost your scores and increase the chance of you getting into your dream military role.
Improving your ASVAB score requires a strategic approach. You can start by gathering essential study resources such as ASVAB study guides, online tutorials, and mobile apps to cover the key topics. You have the internet in your hands and you must capitalize on all of the resources on the web.
Next on the list is to focus on the sections where you scored the lowest. Prioritizing these areas will help maximize your improvement. A study plan that allocates extra time to these weak spots will be very beneficial, while still reviewing other areas to maintain a balanced approach.
Practice tests are also a great idea because they familiarize you with the test format and help you monitor your progress. If you have the resources, enrolling in prep courses can also provide structured learning and expert guidance to help you focus on the right material.
By combining these strategies, you can increase your chances of achieving the ASVAB score you need.
FAQ
Can I retake the ASVAB more than three times?
Yes, candidates can retake the ASVAB more than three times, but after your third attempt in a one-year period, you must wait six months before trying again. There is no lifetime limit on how many times you can take the test, but each branch of the military has specific policies regarding retakes.
How long should I study between ASVAB attempts?
It’s recommended to study for at least a few weeks between ASVAB attempts, especially focusing on areas where you performed poorly. Since you must wait 30 days before the first retake and 60 days before the second, use this time to thoroughly review materials and take practice tests to improve your scores.
Does retaking the ASVAB hurt my chances of enlistment?
Retaking the ASVAB does not hurt your chances of enlistment. In fact, improving your score can enhance your chances of qualifying for a broader range of military jobs. The military will use your highest scores, so it’s always worth trying again if you believe you can improve.
