What Is the ASVAB?
The ASVAB (Armed Services Vocational Aptitude Battery) is a multiple-choice exam used by the U.S. military to determine a person’s strengths, abilities, and eligibility for different military careers.
It is not an intelligence test — it measures skills you can learn and improve, especially with practice and guidance.
Who Needs to Take the ASVAB?
You may need to take the ASVAB if you are:
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Planning to enlist in the U.S. military
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Exploring career options in the military
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A high school student considering military service
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An adult who wants to retake the ASVAB to improve their score
Many people take the ASVAB more than once to qualify for better opportunities.
What Does the ASVAB Measure?
The ASVAB tests knowledge in several areas, including:
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Arithmetic Reasoning
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Mathematics Knowledge
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Word Knowledge
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Paragraph Comprehension
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General Science
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Electronics Information
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Auto & Shop Information
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Mechanical Comprehension
Not every section matters equally for every military job.
What Is the AFQT Score?
The AFQT score (Armed Forces Qualification Test) is the most important score on the ASVAB.
It is calculated from four sections:
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Arithmetic Reasoning
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Mathematics Knowledge
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Word Knowledge
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Paragraph Comprehension
Your AFQT score determines whether you are eligible to enlist.
Minimum ASVAB Score Requirements
Each branch of the U.S. military has its own minimum score requirement:
Military Branch Typical Minimum AFQT Score
Army 31
Marine Corps 32
Navy 35
Air Force 36
Coast Guard 40–45
Higher scores qualify you for more job options and better career paths.
What Higher Scores Can Help You:
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Qualify for more MOS / job specialties
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Access technical and skilled positions
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Increase chances of signing bonuses
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Improve long-term career flexibility
Can You Study for the ASVAB?
Yes — absolutely.
Many students improve their score by 10–30+ points with proper tutoring and practice.
The ASVAB tests:
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math fundamentals
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reading comprehension
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test-taking strategies
These skills can be learned.
How YouthCanDo Helps
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Free one-on-one or small-group, in person or virtual ASVAB tutoring
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Patient instruction from trained high school student tutors
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Step-by-step review of math and reading concepts
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No cost. No obligation.
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Help every learner reach their full potential — academically and personally.