The United States Marine Corps is a component of the Navy and is America’s maritime land force. This branch of the U.S. Military is responsible for combat and contingency operations; humanitarian support; security; Presidential services; and the Toys for Tots program. In order to join the Marine Corps and get the job you want, passing the ASVAB (Armed Services Vocational Aptitude Battery) and meeting minimum Marine Corps ASVAB score requirements is a crucial step. To score high, you’ll need strategic preparation and effective study habits. Here’s a step-by-step guide on how to get the Marine Corps ASVAB score you need for your desired role:
Understanding the ASVAB and Your ASVAB Score
The ASVAB is divided into nine subtests that assess different areas of knowledge and skills:
- General Science (GS) Measures knowledge of life science, earth and space science, and physical science.
- Arithmetic Reasoning (AR) Tests ability to solve basic arithmetic word problems.
- Word Knowledge (WK) Assesses understanding of the meaning of words through synonyms.
- Paragraph Comprehension (PC) Measures ability to obtain information from written material.
- Mathematics Knowledge (MK) Tests knowledge of mathematical concepts and applications.
- Electronics Information (EI) Tests knowledge of electrical current, circuits, devices, and electronic systems.
- Auto and Shop Information (AS) Measures knowledge of automotive maintenance and repair, and wood and metal shop practices.
- Mechanical Comprehension (MC) Tests understanding of the principles of mechanical devices, structural support, and properties of materials.
- Assembling Objects (AO) Measures spatial relationship skills.
The way the ASVAB is scored may seem complicated so it’s important to understand that there are a few ways to interpret your Marine Corps ASVAB score results:
Your Standard ASVAB scores are calculated for each single subset of the ASVAB test. The standard ASVAB score is used to identify your strengths and weaknesses in certain skills. The standardization of these ASVAB score results makes it easier for the military to assess and compare candidates.
Your ASVAB Line Score (aka your ASVAB Composite Score) is used to determine which military occupations are best aligned with your knowledge and skills. ASVAB Composite scores help determine your eligibility for specific roles within the military and each branch of the military has its own set of line scores of subset combinations.
Your AFQT (Armed Forces Qualification Test) Score is based on your performance from four ASVAB subtests: AR, MK, WK, and PC. These four subtests are combined to calculate one general score. This score (your AFQT score) is divided into 8 categories and is converted into a percentile score between 1 and 99. This score is considered to be the most important ASVAB score on your ASVAB test as it determines your eligibility for enlistment into each military branch. A high AFQT score leads to more opportunities within the military.
To enlist in the U.S. Marine Corps, you must have a minimum Marine Corps ASVAB Score of 31.
Setting a Target Marine Corps ASVAB Score
When you begin your Marine Corps ASVAB test prep, take a diagnostic test to determine your current score level. Then, set a target score to work towards. Again, in order to join the Marine Corps, you generally need a minimum AFQT score of 31 if you have a high school diploma. If you have a GED, the minimum score is usually 50. To increase your opportunities and qualify for more specialized roles, aim for a minimum AFQT score of 60. Follow our Marine Corps ASVAB test prep steps to increase your Marine Corps ASVAB score over time:
Marine Corps ASVAB Test Prep Steps
1. Take Marine Corps ASVAB Practice Tests
Find out your current ASVAB Marine Corps score by taking a full-length ASVAB practice test. This will help you identify your strengths and weaknesses so you can focus on areas that need improvement. Peterson’s ASVAB Marine Corps Practice tests have explanations to every answer so you can analyze your mistakes and understand where you went wrong and correct it. Regularly take a practice test under timed conditions to monitor your progress and test-taking skills and watch your score increase each time.
2. Build Out An Marine Corps ASVAB Study Plan
Create a study schedule that allows you to cover all subtests. After you’ve taken an ASVAB practice test, dedicate more time to areas where you are weakest. To earn a high ASVAB and AFQT score, taking ASVAB practice tests and studying daily will be the key to success. Aim for at least 1-2 hours of studying per day and begin your test prep at least 8 weeks in advance.
3. ASVAB Study Materials + ASVAB Support
Using reputable ASVAB study materials and online test prep courses can help you grasp content and key concepts for each subtest of the ASVAB. Connect with a tutor or join a study group to support you in areas that you need help with. Peterson’s 3 and 6 month test prep subscriptions give you on-demand access to tutoring experts.
4. ASVAB Study Strategies
Each ASVAB subtest will require different strategies and topics to review. Download Peterson’s Free ASVAB Study Guide for more in-depth, subtest-specific ASVAB study strategies. You can find our free download at https://www.petersons.com/testprep/asvab/
5. Test Day Tips
- Get Rest: Ensure you get a good night’s sleep before the test day.
- Eat Well: Have a healthy meal before the test to maintain your energy levels.
- Stay Calm: Manage test anxiety by practicing relaxation techniques like deep breathing.
7. Additional Marine Corps ASVAB Resources
To learn more about what it takes to join the Marine Corps, visit the United States Marine Corps website for more detailed information.
Conclusion
Preparation is key to passing the ASVAB for the Marine Corps. By understanding the test structure, setting a target score, using the right study materials, and practicing consistently, you can improve your chances of achieving a high score. Remember, the ASVAB is not just about passing but also about qualifying for the job roles you desire within the Marine Corps. Good luck!
