The Armed Services Vocational Aptitude Battery is a multiple-choice test that helps you identify which jobs (Military Occupational Specialties) are best for you. There is no commitment to join the military and this test is recommended for all students to explorer career option and take advantage of the career reports.

FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS

WHAT DOES THE ASVAB MEASURE?

The Armed Services Vocational Aptitude Battery (ASVAB) measures your knowledge and ability in ten different areas. It is not an IQ test; the ASVAB does help the military assess which jobs you are best suited to perform.

HOW CAN I PREPARE FOR THE ASVAB?

You don’t have to go through any special preparation to take the ASVAB. Getting a good night’s rest and arriving on time are the two most important steps you can take to prepare.

WHO GIVES THE ASVAB, AND WHERE CAN I TAKE IT?

The ASVAB is usually given in schools by test administrators from the federal government. Schools determine where and when the ASVAB will be given. See your school counselor or the Career Center (C 33) for more information. If you’re not currently in school, contact your local recruiter.

WHAT CAN I EXPECT ON THE DAY OF THE TEST?

The ASVAB consists of ten short tests to complete during three hours. An ASVAB test administrator will give you instructions and tell you how long you have to complete each test. However, before you begin, you will have a chance to answer some practice questions and ask any questions about taking the test.

WHAT KIND OF QUESTIONS WILL I BE ASKED ON THE ASVAB?

The ASVAB tests cover general science, arithmetic reasoning, word knowledge, paragraph comprehension, numerical operations, coding speed, auto and shop information, mathematics knowledge, mechanical comprehension, and electronics information.

WHAT SCORE DO I NEED TO PASS THE ASVAB? WHAT DO MY SCORES MEAN, AND HOW ARE THEY USED?

While there is no "failing" the ASVAB; you will need to score at least a 31 on the exam to be considered for enlistment in the military. Your scores will be provided to you on a report called the ASVAB Student Results Sheet, with additional information to help you understand your score.

UNDERSTANDING THE ASVAB TEST AREAS

The ASVAB is a series of tests developed by the Department of Defense and is used by the U.S. military to determine whether you have the mental aptitude to enlist. The ASVAB also helps determine which Military Occupational Specialties (MOS) you qualify for. The ASVAB is required to enlist in the U.S. Military and is valid for two years. The ASVAB may be given in a computerized version at a Military Entrance Processing Station (MEPS) or in a paper version at various Military Entrance Test (MET) sites around the country or at high schools and colleges.

ASVAB TEST AREAS

• General Science - measures knowledge of life science, earth and space science, and physical science

• Arithmetic Reasoning - measures ability to solve basic arithmetic word problems

• Word Knowledge - measures ability to understand the meaning of words through synonyms

• Paragraph Comprehension - measures ability to obtain information from written material

• Mathematics Knowledge - measures knowledge of mathematical concepts and applications

• Electronics Information - measures knowledge of electrical current, circuits, devices and electronic systems

• Auto and Shop Information - measures knowledge of automotive maintenance and repair, and wood and metal shop practices

• Mechanical Comprehension - measures knowledge of the principles of mechanical devices, structural support and properties of materials

• Assembling Objects - measures ability with spatial relationships

(Quoted and adapted from goarmy.com)