ASVAB Scores Explained: What Your Numbers Actually Mean
You took the ASVAB. Now you're staring at a sheet full of numbers wondering what any of it means.
Let's break it down.
The Two Scores That Matter Most
AFQT Score (1-99)
This is the big one. Your AFQT determines if you can enlist and which branch will take you.It's a percentile, not a percentage. A score of 70 means you did better than 70% of test-takers.
Minimum scores by branch:
- Army: 31
- Navy: 31
- Air Force: 36
- Marines: 32
- Coast Guard: 40
- Space Force: 36
Line Scores
These are composite scores that determine which jobs (MOS/Rate/AFSC) you qualify for.Different branches calculate them differently. The Army has 10 line scores. The Navy has 7. Each job requires specific minimums. See our complete ASVAB score requirements by MOS guide for specific job requirements.
How AFQT Is Calculated
Your AFQT comes from four sections:
Verbal: Word Knowledge + Paragraph Comprehension Math: Arithmetic Reasoning + Mathematics Knowledge
The formula weights these and spits out your percentile. You don't need to know the exact math — just know these four sections are everything.
What's a "Good" Score?
| Score Range | Category | What It Means |
|---|
| 93-99 | I | Top tier, any job available |
| 65-92 | II | Above average, most jobs open |
| 50-64 | IIIA | Average, solid options |
| 31-49 | IIIB | Below average, limited jobs |
| 21-30 | IVA | Minimal, restricted enlistment |
| 10-20 | IVB-V | Does not qualify |
Can You Retake It?
Yes, but there are rules. See our full ASVAB retake policy guide for complete details.
- Wait 1 month after first attempt
- Wait 1 month after second attempt
- Wait 6 months after third attempt
- Your most recent score counts (not highest)
Don't rush a retake. Study first.
Focus on What Moves the Needle
Want a higher AFQT? Focus exclusively on the four sections that count: AR, WK, PC, and MK.
The other sections matter for jobs, but AFQT opens the door.
Not sure where you stand? Take our free practice test and get your estimated AFQT score instantly.