The ASVAB (Armed Services Vocational Aptitude Battery) is a critical test for anyone looking to join the U.S. military. Your ASVAB score determines not only your eligibility for enlistment but also what specific jobs (Military Occupational Specialties, or MOS) you qualify for in the different branches of the armed forces. Understanding your ASVAB score and how it relates to job qualifications is essential in making informed career decisions within the military.

In this guide, we’ll break down what your ASVAB scores mean, the various military jobs available based on scores, and how to maximize your career opportunities.

Understanding ASVAB Scores

The ASVAB is divided into ten subtests, covering subjects like arithmetic reasoning, word knowledge, mechanical comprehension, and more. Your scores on these subtests are used to calculate multiple scores, including:

• AFQT (Armed Forces Qualification Test) Score – This is the most critical score, determining whether you are eligible to enlist. It is calculated using four ASVAB subtests: Arithmetic Reasoning (AR), Mathematics Knowledge (MK), Word Knowledge (WK), and Paragraph Comprehension (PC).
• Line Scores – These are composite scores derived from different ASVAB subtests and are used to determine qualification for specific military jobs.

Each branch of the military has its own minimum AFQT score requirement:

• Army: 31
• Navy: 35
• Air Force: 36
• Marine Corps: 32
• Coast Guard: 40

If you meet the minimum AFQT score for your desired branch, your next step is to look at the line scores that match with military job opportunities.

Job Opportunities by ASVAB Score

Each military branch has different job roles requiring specific ASVAB line scores. Below, we outline some of the jobs you may qualify for based on your scores in each branch of service.

Army Jobs Based on ASVAB Scores

The Army uses line scores to determine your eligibility for specific Military Occupational Specialties (MOS). Below are examples of job categories and their ASVAB score requirements:

• Infantry (11B – Infantryman): Requires a minimum Combat (CO) score of 87
• Military Police (31B – Military Police): Requires a ST (Skilled Technical) score of 91
• Combat Engineer (12B – Combat Engineer): Requires a CO score of 87
• Intelligence Analyst (35F – Intelligence Analyst): Requires a ST score of 101
• Aircraft Electrician (15F – Aircraft Electrician): Requires an EL (Electronics) score of 93

The Army offers various job roles, so even if you score on the lower end, you still have options available.

Navy Jobs Based on ASVAB Scores

The Navy also uses ASVAB line scores to determine job placement. Here are some job examples:

• Aviation Boatswain’s Mate (AB): Requires a VE+AR+MK+MC score of 140
• Hospital Corpsman (HM): Requires a VE+MK+GS score of 146
• Nuclear Field (NF) Program: Requires a combined score of 252 in Math Knowledge (MK), Arithmetic Reasoning (AR), and Electronics Information (EI)
• Cryptologic Technician (CT): Requires a GT score of 110 or higher

The Navy offers a broad range of technical and operational jobs, many requiring strong math and technical skills.

Air Force Jobs Based on ASVAB Scores

The Air Force is known for its technical and intelligence-based roles. Here are some common Air Force careers and their ASVAB requirements:

• Security Forces (3P0X1 – Military Police): Requires a General (G) score of 33
• Air Traffic Controller (1C1X1): Requires a G score of 55
• Cyber Systems Operations (3D0X2): Requires a G score of 64
• Aircraft Maintenance (2A5X1 – Aerospace Maintenance): Requires a Mechanical (M) score of 47
• Pararescue (PJ – 1T2X1): Requires a General (G) score of 49

With strong scores in technical subjects, you can qualify for advanced positions in cyber, aviation, and special operations.

Marine Corps Jobs Based on ASVAB Scores

The Marine Corps focuses on combat readiness and technical skills. Here are some MOS examples:

• Rifleman (0311 – Infantry): Requires a GT score of 80
• Recon Marine (0321 – Reconnaissance Marine): Requires a GT score of 105
• Avionics Technician (6322 – Avionics Technician, Helicopter): Requires an EL score of 105
• Motor Transport Operator (3531 – Motor T Operator): Requires a MM score of 85

The Marine Corps often places emphasis on physical ability as well as ASVAB scores for job placement.

Coast Guard Jobs Based on ASVAB Scores

The Coast Guard is highly selective, requiring higher ASVAB scores for most jobs. Here are some examples:

• Maritime Enforcement Specialist (ME): Requires a VE+AR+MK score of 162
• Electronics Technician (ET): Requires an EL score of 157
• Gunner’s Mate (GM): Requires a MK+EI+GS score of 205
• Operations Specialist (OS): Requires a VE+MK score of 115

The Coast Guard’s focus is on security, law enforcement, and maritime safety, making technical and problem-solving skills critical.

How to Improve Your ASVAB Score

If you’re not satisfied with your ASVAB score or want to qualify for a better job, here are some ways to improve:

1. Study Regularly: Use ASVAB prep books, online resources, and practice tests.
2. Focus on Weak Areas: Identify which subtests need improvement and dedicate more time to those.
3. Take Practice Tests: Familiarize yourself with the format and timing of the test.
4. Consider Tutoring: If needed, work with a tutor to strengthen math, vocabulary, or technical skills.
5. Retake the Test: You can retake the ASVAB after a waiting period, so take advantage of that if needed.

Final Thoughts

Your ASVAB score plays a vital role in determining your military career options. Understanding your scores and how they translate to available jobs can help you make the best decisions for your future. If your scores aren’t where you want them to be, focus on improving them through study and preparation.

No matter your score, there are valuable opportunities within every branch of the military. Take time to research, ask questions, and choose the path that best aligns with your skills and career goals. Good luck with your ASVAB and military journey!