Hello! I'm in the process of exploring a military career after high school and I've recently been researching the Armed Forces Qualification Test (AFQT). What are the minimum scores each branch typically requires? Thanks in advance!
Sure, I'd be happy to share that information!
The Armed Forces Qualification Test (AFQT) is derived from four subtests of the Armed Services Vocational Aptitude Battery (ASVAB): Arithmetic Reasoning, Mathematics Knowledge, Paragraph Comprehension, and Word Knowledge. Your AFQT score, expressed as a percentile score between 1 and 99, essentially determines if you're eligible to enlist in the U.S. military.
Here are the minimum AFQT scores needed for each military branch:
1. Army: The Army requires a minimum AFQT score of 31 for high school graduates and 50 for GED holders.
2. Navy: To enlist in the Navy, a minimum AFQT score of 35 is needed for high school graduates, while GED holders must score a 50 or higher.
3. Air Force: The minimum AFQT score is 36 for high school graduates. However, the competitive standards are usually set much higher. For GED holders, a minimum of 50 is required, but similarly, higher scores are generally desired for competitive edge.
4. Marine Corps: An AFQT score of 32 is required for high school graduates and a 50 for GED holders.
5. Coast Guard: This branch requires an AFQT of 40 for high school graduates. GED holders usually need much higher scores, often around a 50.
6. Space Force: Space Force recruits from within the Air Force, so the same standards as the Air Force apply here.
Remember that these scores are minimums. Recruiting is highly competitive, so higher scores can enhance your opportunities in terms of service, branch, and occupational specialty. It's recommended to shoot for as high a score as you possibly can.
Lastly, keep in mind that requirements can fluctuate based on the needs of the military, so it's always a good idea to reach out to recruiters for the most current information.
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