Introduction

If you didn’t get the ASVAB score you wanted on your first attempt, you’re not alone. Many test-takers wonder about retaking the Armed Services Vocational Aptitude Battery to improve their scores and expand their military career options.

How Many Times Can You Take the ASVAB? The good news is that you can retake the ASVAB multiple times, but there are specific rules and waiting periods you need to follow. Understanding these regulations can help you plan your retake strategy effectively and maximize your chances of achieving your target score.

This guide covers everything you need to know about ASVAB retakes, including official policies, waiting periods, and proven strategies to boost your performance on subsequent attempts.

How Many Times Can You Take the ASVAB?

There’s no limit to how many times you can take the ASVAB throughout your lifetime. However, the Department of Defense has established specific rules governing when and how you can retake the test.

After your initial ASVAB attempt, you’re allowed one retake without any waiting period. This means you can schedule your second attempt immediately after receiving your first scores if you’re unsatisfied with the results.

For all subsequent attempts beyond your second test, you must wait at least one calendar month between each retake. This waiting period ensures test security and gives you adequate time to study and improve your knowledge base.

The ASVAB and Its Importance

The Armed Services Vocational Aptitude Battery serves as both an enlistment qualification test and a career exploration tool for military service. Your ASVAB scores determine not only your eligibility for military service but also which Military Occupational Specialties (MOS) you can pursue.

The test consists of ten subtests covering areas like arithmetic reasoning, word knowledge, paragraph comprehension, and mechanical comprehension. Your Armed Forces Qualification Test (AFQT) score, derived from four of these subtests, determines your overall eligibility for enlistment.

Each military branch has different minimum AFQT score requirements. The Army requires a minimum score of 31, while the Air Force and Coast Guard require higher scores of 36 and 40, respectively. Higher scores open doors to more career fields and potential bonuses.

Official Rules on ASVAB Retake Policy

The Military Entrance Processing Command (MEPCOM) oversees ASVAB administration and retake policies. These rules apply whether you take the computerized version (CAT-ASVAB) at a Military Entrance Processing Station or the paper-and-pencil version.

Your most recent ASVAB score is always the one that counts for enlistment purposes, regardless of whether it’s higher or lower than previous attempts. This means you could potentially score lower on a retake, which would then become your official score for military qualification.

If you’re already enlisted and want to retake the ASVAB for reclassification purposes, you’ll need approval from your commanding officer or career counselor. The same waiting period rules apply to active-duty service members seeking to change their military occupational specialty.

Waiting Periods Between ASVAB Attempts

Understanding the waiting periods is crucial for planning your retake strategy effectively. Here’s how the timeline works:

First to Second Attempt: No waiting period required. You can schedule your retake immediately after receiving your initial scores.

Second to Third Attempt: You must wait at least 30 calendar days from the date you took your second test.

All Subsequent Attempts: Each additional retake requires a 30-day waiting period from your most recent test date.

The waiting period begins on the actual test date, not when you receive your scores. For example, if you took the ASVAB on January 15th, you could retake it again starting February 15th.

Impact of ASVAB Scores on Career Paths

Your ASVAB scores directly influence the military career opportunities available to you. Beyond the basic AFQT score for enlistment eligibility, composite scores determine specific job qualifications.

Different career fields require different composite score combinations. Technical fields like electronics, aviation, and nuclear programs typically require higher scores than general maintenance or administrative positions.

Some elite programs have particularly stringent requirements. For instance, nuclear programs in the Navy often require ASVAB scores in the 90th percentile or higher, making retakes essential for candidates who fall short initially.

Higher ASVAB scores can also qualify you for enlistment bonuses, advanced rank at entry, and priority job selection. These benefits make investing time in test preparation and potential retakes financially worthwhile.

Strategies for Improving ASVAB Scores

Successful ASVAB retakes require targeted preparation focused on your weakest subject areas. Start by analyzing your initial score report to identify which subtests need the most improvement.

Focus your study efforts on the four AFQT subtests: Arithmetic Reasoning, Mathematics Knowledge, Paragraph Comprehension, and Word Knowledge. These areas have the greatest impact on your overall qualification score.

Create a structured study schedule that allows adequate preparation time before your retake. Most experts recommend at least 4-6 weeks of consistent study, dedicating 1-2 hours daily to test preparation.

Practice with realistic test conditions by timing yourself and working in quiet environments similar to the actual testing situation. This helps build stamina and reduces test anxiety during your retake attempt.

Consider enrolling in ASVAB prep courses or working with tutors if self-study isn’t producing the improvements you need. Many community colleges and military recruiting stations offer free preparation resources.

Resources for ASVAB Preparation

The official ASVAB website provides free practice tests and study guides covering all test subjects. These materials are created by the same organization that develops the actual test, making them highly relevant for preparation.

Commercial test prep companies offer comprehensive ASVAB study programs, including books, online courses, and mobile apps. Popular options include Kaplan, Princeton Review, and specialized military test prep providers.

Your local military recruiting station can provide additional study materials and may offer group study sessions with other ASVAB candidates. Recruiters are also valuable resources for understanding how scores translate to specific career opportunities.

Public libraries often have ASVAB preparation books and may provide access to online testing platforms. Many libraries also offer quiet study spaces ideal for focused preparation sessions.

Khan Academy provides free online math instruction that can help strengthen your arithmetic reasoning and mathematics knowledge scores. Their adaptive learning platform identifies knowledge gaps and provides personalized practice.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I choose which ASVAB score to use for enlistment?

No, your most recent ASVAB score is always used for enlistment qualification, regardless of whether previous scores were higher.

Do ASVAB scores expire?

ASVAB scores are valid for two years from the test date for enlistment purposes. After this period, you’ll need to retake the test.

Can I retake just specific sections of the ASVAB?

No, you must retake the entire ASVAB battery. You cannot selectively retest individual subtests.

What happens if I don’t show up for a scheduled retake?

Missing a scheduled ASVAB appointment may result in a waiting period before you can reschedule, depending on the testing location’s policies.

Can I take the ASVAB at different locations for retakes?

Yes, you can take retakes at any authorized testing location, including different Military Entrance Processing Stations or approved schools.

Making Your Retake Count

The ASVAB retake policy gives you multiple opportunities to achieve your target score and pursue your desired military career path. With no lifetime limit on attempts and reasonable waiting periods, you have the flexibility to improve your performance through dedicated preparation.

Remember that your most recent score always counts, so approach each retake seriously with adequate preparation time. Use the 30-day waiting periods between attempts to identify weak areas, study systematically, and build confidence in your test-taking abilities.

Start by taking advantage of free official practice materials and consider investing in comprehensive prep programs if you need additional support. With the right preparation strategy and persistence, you can achieve the ASVAB scores needed for your military career goals.