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What is the ASVAB and what scores do you need?
TL;DR — Quick Answer
The ASVAB is a multi-aptitude test that determines which Navy ratings you qualify for. Your sub-test scores combine into line scores, and each rating has minimum line-score requirements. Higher scores open more options.
What the ASVAB actually measures
The Armed Services Vocational Aptitude Battery is a timed test with sections covering arithmetic reasoning, word knowledge, paragraph comprehension, mathematics knowledge, general science, electronics information, auto/shop information, mechanical comprehension, and assembling objects. Your results determine both your overall AFQT score and specific line scores.
AFQT vs. line scores
Your AFQT score (a percentile from 1-99) determines whether you can enlist at all. The Navy generally requires a minimum AFQT of 31, though higher scores unlock bonuses and more rating options. Line scores are composites of specific sub-tests. For example, the EL line score combines AR+MK+EI+GS. Each rating requires minimum thresholds on one or more line scores.
Which scores open the most doors
Technical ratings in the information warfare community (IT, CTN, CTR, IS) typically require the highest line scores. Medical and special operations ratings also set high bars. Apprenticeship ratings and some surface ratings have lower requirements. Use the ASVAB calculator to plug in your sub-test scores and instantly see every rating you qualify for.
Can you retake the ASVAB?
Yes. You can retake the ASVAB after 30 days, and again after another 30 days. After that, you must wait six months between attempts. Your most recent score is the one that counts. Many recruits study and retake to unlock higher-paying technical ratings with larger enlistment bonuses.
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How do you choose the right Navy rate for you?
Choosing a Navy rate means weighing your ASVAB scores, lifestyle preferences, civilian career goals, and willingness to deploy or go to sea. Start by identifying which ratings you qualify for, then narrow the list by what matters most to you.
Read article →Who actually picks your Navy rate — your recruiter, or the classifier at MEPS?
Most applicants believe their recruiter picks their rate. Their recruiter does not. The recruiter submits a request packet; a separate Navy classifier at MEPS draws from live A-school seat inventory the morning you arrive and offers you what is actually available right then. Verbal promises a recruiter makes about a specific rate are not binding — only the contract you sign in front of the classifier is enforceable. Your phone is locked away when that conversation happens, so bring a printed folder of [rate comparison data](/rates), [ASVAB cutoffs](/asvab), and [bonus amounts](/bonuses) from myNavyRates.org. The 15 minutes at the classifier desk decide the next 4-6 years of your life.
Read article →What actually happens when you sit down with the Navy job counselor at MEPS — and how do you avoid the common traps?
The Navy classifier sit-down is a 15-to-45 minute meeting where you sign a contract that binds you for 4-6 years. Your phone is locked in a bin, the rating list on the classifier's screen is only the seats open for the ship dates you qualify for right now, and the pressure to pick "something" instead of waiting is real. You can bring printed reference material, you can walk away without signing, you can change your rate later in DEP, and no enlistment bonus is paid at MEPS — those pay out when you finish A-School. Know all of this before you sit down.
Read article →What is Navy A-School and what should you expect?
A-School is your rating-specific technical training after boot camp. Length varies from 4 weeks to over a year depending on your rate. It teaches the foundational skills for your Navy job and determines your initial duty station.
Read article →Ready to find your rate?
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