If you’re thinking about a career in the Navy, the Armed Services Vocational Aptitude Battery (ASVAB) is a test you’ll need to take. It’s a crucial step for anyone considering enlisting, designed to assess your skills and aptitudes.
Your ASVAB scores directly impact your eligibility for the Navy, the types of jobs you can choose, and your potential for career advancement. A good score can even unlock better enlistment bonuses and more specialized positions.
This article covers everything you need to know about the ASVAB for the Navy, including minimum score requirements, line scores, preparation strategies, and other essential information to help you succeed.
Navy ASVAB requirements: AFQT and line scores
To enlist in the Navy, you’ll need to achieve certain scores on the ASVAB, both on the Armed Forces Qualification Test (AFQT) and on the line scores.
Minimum AFQT score for Navy enlistment
The AFQT is a key part of the ASVAB. It’s calculated from your scores on four subtests: Arithmetic Reasoning, Mathematics Knowledge, Word Knowledge, and Paragraph Comprehension.
The minimum AFQT score for enlisting in the Navy is usually 35, but the exact requirements can vary based on your education (high school diploma or GED, for example).
Understanding line scores and their importance
Line scores are combinations of scores from different ASVAB subtests. These scores determine whether you’re eligible for specific Navy jobs and ratings (also known as Navy Enlisted Classifications, or NECs).
Different Navy jobs have different line score requirements. For example, to become an Aviation Boatswain’s Mate – Equipment (ABE), you may need a minimum score of VE+AR+MK+AS= 184.
Some jobs may have multiple formulas that can be used for qualification, like Air Traffic Controller.
ASVAB score requirements for specific Navy jobs
The Navy uses what they call “line scores,” which are a combination of several subtests, to determine whether you qualify for a specific job.
Examples of ASVAB line score requirements for various Navy ratings
Here are a few examples of the ASVAB scores you’ll need to enlist in some popular Navy jobs. Keep in mind that these can change, so it’s always a good idea to check with a recruiter.
- Air Traffic Controlman (AC): VE+AR+MK+MC=220 or VE+MK+MC+CS=220
- Aviation Machinist’s Mate: VE+AR+MK+AS=210
- Cryptologic Technician – Maintenance: VE+AR=110 and MK+GS+EI=165
- Damage Controlman: VE+AR+MK+MC=174
- Steelworker: VE+AR+MK+MC=174
If you’re considering a career in the Navy, it’s important to research the ASVAB requirements for that job early in your preparation.
Navy SEAL ASVAB requirements
If you want to become a Navy SEAL, you’ll need to meet specific and sometimes higher ASVAB standards. These requirements may include certain line score combinations in addition to your AFQT score. You’ll also need to meet certain age, medical, and vision standards.
How to find updated ASVAB score information for specific Navy jobs
The official Navy recruiting website will have the most up-to-date requirements. You can also contact a Navy recruiter for personalized guidance.
Understanding ASVAB Subtests and Line Scores
The Navy uses a formula to calculate your “line scores” based on your performance in different ASVAB subtests. For example, a line score might be calculated as General Science (GS) + Mechanical Comprehension (MC) + Electronics Information (EI) = 165.
Here’s a breakdown of the ASVAB subtests:
- General Science (GS): 25 questions, 11 minutes
- Arithmetic Reasoning (AR): 30 questions, 36 minutes
- Word Knowledge (WK)
- Paragraph Comprehension (PC)
- Mathematics Knowledge (MK)
- Electronics Information (EI)
- Auto and Shop Information (AS)
- Mechanical Comprehension (MC)
- Assembling Objects (AO)
(The list above isn’t comprehensive, but it gives you an idea of what to expect.)
What else do I need to enlist in the Navy?
Your ASVAB score is important, but it’s not the only thing the Navy looks at. To enlist, you also need to meet requirements for:
- Age
- Citizenship
- Education
- Physical fitness
- Medical standards
You’ll typically need a high school diploma or a GED. If you have a GED, you may need a higher AFQT score.
Meeting the Navy’s physical and medical standards is also essential.
ASVAB retake policy and preparation strategies
If you don’t get the score you need, the Navy does allow you to retake the ASVAB after a waiting period. Usually, the highest score is the one that’s used to determine your eligibility. Here are some strategies that can help you improve your score:
- Review the material tested on the ASVAB.
- Take practice tests and use study guides to evaluate your progress.
- Focus on the areas where you scored the lowest.
Final Thoughts
If you’re thinking about joining the Navy, the ASVAB is a really important step. A good score can open doors to a wider range of jobs and benefits that might otherwise be out of reach.
It’s worth the time and effort to prepare for the ASVAB and understand how the scoring system works. Study the material, take practice tests, and do everything you can to put your best foot forward.
Finally, research the Navy jobs that interest you, and reach out to a Navy recruiter. They can provide valuable information and guidance as you decide if the Navy is right for you.