ASVAB Study Guide 2024-2025

Resources & ASVAB Information

What is the ASVAB?

Your First Step Toward a Military Career

The Armed Services Vocational Aptitude Battery (ASVAB) is a multiple-choice test used by the U.S. military to measure a candidate’s strengths and potential for success in various military careers.
 It’s not just an entrance exam — it also determines which Military Occupational Specialties (MOS) you qualify for, making it one of the most important tests in your career journey.

Key points

Test Structure

9 subject areas including Arithmetic Reasoning, Word Knowledge, General Science, Mechanical Comprehension, and more.

Military Career Placement

Higher scores open doors to more job opportunities and specialized training.

Timing

The ASVAB takes about 3 hours to complete, depending on the format (paper or computer-adaptive).

Scoring

Your AFQT score (Armed Forces Qualification Test) is the most important, as it determines your eligibility to enlist.

The 9 ASVAB Subtests

General Science
  • 16 questions
  • 8 minutes
Arithmetic Reasoning
  • 16 questions
  • 8 minutes
Word Knowledge
  • 16 questions
  • 8 minutes
Paragraph Comprehension
  • 16 questions
  • 8 minutes
Mathematics Knowledge
  • 16 questions
  • 8 minutes
Electronics Information
  • 16 questions
  • 8 minutes
Auto & Shop Information
  • 16 questions
  • 8 minutes
Mechanical Comprehension
  • 16 questions
  • 8 minutes
Assembling Objects
  • 16 questions
  • 8 minutes

AFQT Score Requirements by Military Branch

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BranchMinimum AFQT Score
Army31
Marine Corps42
Navy65
Air Force33
Coast Guard38
Air National Guard42
Army National Guard28

One Mission: Your Best Score.

FeatureCAT-ASVAB (Computer Adaptive Test)Paper-and-Pencil ASVAB
FormatTaken on a computer; questions adjust in difficulty based on your answers.Traditional bubble sheet; all test-takers receive the same set of questions.
Time LimitShorter overall (about 1.5 hours) because it adapts to your level.Longer (around 3 hours) since all sections are fixed length.

ASVAB Testing Locations: MEPS / MET Sites

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MEPS (Military Entrance Processing Station)
  • Full-service testing and enlistment centers
  • Computer-based ASVAB (CAT-ASVAB)
  • Located in major cities nationwide
  • Used for official enlistment
MET (Mobile Examination Test) Sites:
  • Smaller satellite testing locations
  • Paper-and-pencil ASVAB version
  • Found in schools, armories, and temporary test sites
  • Often used for initial screening

Retesting Policies & Score Validity

Retesting Policies
If you don’t pass the ASVAB the first time, you must wait 30 days before retaking the test.
A second retest also requires a 30-day wait period.
Any additional attempts require a 6-month waiting period.
Score Validity
Your ASVAB scores are valid for 2 years from the test date.
Scores can be used for enlistment during that period without retaking the test.
After 2 years, you’ll need to take the ASVAB again if you haven’t enlisted.

10 free sample questions

Your Free ASVAB Study Schedule

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Top 100 Must-Know ASVAB Vocabulary Words

The ASVAB Word Knowledge subtest is all about recognizing synonyms and understanding word meanings. Memorize these essential 100 words to gain an edge on test day.

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Avoid These 5 Common ASVAB Mistakes

Not Taking Practice Tests
Skipping full-length practice exams leaves you unprepared for timing, question styles, and test-day stress.
Not Taking Practice Tests
Skipping full-length practice exams leaves you unprepared for timing, question styles, and test-day stress.
Not Taking Practice Tests
Skipping full-length practice exams leaves you unprepared for timing, question styles, and test-day stress.
Not Taking Practice Tests
Skipping full-length practice exams leaves you unprepared for timing, question styles, and test-day stress.
Not Taking Practice Tests
Skipping full-length practice exams leaves you unprepared for timing, question styles, and test-day stress.

Discover Your Path in the Armed Forces

Not sure which military career best suits your skills and interests? Use our Military Career Explorer Tool to find out!

Know What Careers Your Scores Qualify You For

Every branch of the U.S. military uses ASVAB line scores to determine eligibility for specific jobs (MOS/AFSC/Ratings). Our MOS/Rating Qualification Chart makes it easy to see what your scores mean for your future.

Have Questions About the ASVAB?

We’re here to help you on your journey. Whether you’re unsure about the test, careers, or study resources, send us your questions and we’ll get back to you.