ASVAB Line Scores: What They Mean for Your Military Job (MOS/Rate/AFSC)

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Understanding the Foundation of Your Military Career

When embarking on a military career, few tests will impact your future as significantly as the Armed Services Vocational Aptitude Battery (ASVAB). While most prospective service members are familiar with the ASVAB as an entrance exam, many don’t fully understand how their performance translates into specific career opportunities through what are called “line scores.”

Line scores are specialized combinations of your ASVAB subtest results that each military branch uses to determine which jobs you qualify for. Unlike your overall AFQT (Armed Forces Qualification Test) score, which determines basic eligibility to join the military, line scores are tailored evaluations that match your aptitudes with specific military occupational specialties.

This comprehensive guide will demystify ASVAB line scores for all military branches—Army MOS (Military Occupational Specialty), Navy Ratings, Air Force AFSC (Air Force Specialty Code), Marine Corps MOS, and Coast Guard Ratings. Understanding these scores can be the difference between landing your dream military job and being assigned to a field that doesn’t align with your skills and interests.

Whether you’re preparing to take the ASVAB for the first time, looking to retake it for a better score, or simply trying to understand your options based on scores you’ve already received, this guide will provide the knowledge you need to navigate your military career path successfully.

ASVAB Basics: The Foundation of Line Scores

Before diving into line scores themselves, it’s important to understand the ASVAB structure that forms their foundation.

What is the ASVAB?

The Armed Services Vocational Aptitude Battery (ASVAB) is a multi-aptitude test developed by the Department of Defense. It’s designed to measure your strengths, weaknesses, and potential for success in military training and civilian careers.

ASVAB Subtests Explained

The ASVAB consists of ten subtests, each measuring different abilities and knowledge areas:

1. General Science (GS): Measures knowledge of physical and biological sciences
2. Arithmetic Reasoning (AR): Tests ability to solve basic arithmetic word problems
3. Word Knowledge (WK): Assesses understanding of the meaning of words through synonyms
4. Paragraph Comprehension (PC): Measures ability to obtain information from written passages
5. Mathematics Knowledge (MK): Tests knowledge of high school mathematics principles
6. Electronics Information (EI): Assesses knowledge of electrical circuits, devices, and systems
7. Auto and Shop Information (AS): Measures knowledge of automotive maintenance and repair, and wood and metal shop practices
8. Mechanical Comprehension (MC): Tests understanding of mechanical and physical principles
9. Assembling Objects (AO): Measures ability to determine how an object will look when its parts are put together
10. Verbal Expression (VE): A composite score calculated from Word Knowledge and Paragraph Comprehension

AFQT vs. Line Scores

While preparing for the ASVAB, you’ll likely hear about two types of scores:

• AFQT Score: The Armed Forces Qualification Test score is derived from four subtests: Arithmetic Reasoning (AR), Mathematics Knowledge (MK), Paragraph Comprehension (PC), and Word Knowledge (WK). This score, reported as a percentile from 1-99, determines your basic eligibility to join the military. Each branch has minimum AFQT score requirements.
• Line Scores: These are combinations of various ASVAB subtest scores that determine qualification for specific military jobs. Each branch has its own system of line scores, with different combinations and names.

The key difference is that your AFQT score tells you if you can join the military, while your line scores tell you which jobs you can pursue once you’re in.

How Line Scores Are Calculated

Line scores are calculated by combining results from different ASVAB subtests using formulas specific to each military branch. These combinations are designed to predict success in different military career fields.

Subtest Raw Scores to Standard Scores

Each ASVAB subtest is first scored with a raw score (the number of questions answered correctly). These raw scores are then converted to standard scores on a scale of 20-80, with a mean of 50 and a standard deviation of 10.

Combining Standard Scores

Line scores are calculated by adding the standard scores from specific combinations of subtests. In some cases, these sums are then converted again to align with the branch’s scoring system.

For example, a line score might be calculated as:

• Mechanical Maintenance (MM) = Auto & Shop (AS) + Mechanical Comprehension (MC) + Electronics Information (EI)

Each branch uses different combinations and may even have different names for similar aptitude areas.

Score Validity

ASVAB scores are generally valid for two years. If you’re unhappy with your line scores, you may be able to retake the test after a waiting period, typically six months. However, policies vary by branch, so consult with a recruiter for specific information.

Army Line Scores and MOS Requirements

The U.S. Army uses a system of line scores divided into 10 aptitude areas to determine qualification for its many Military Occupational Specialties (MOS).

Army Aptitude Areas

The Army’s 10 line score categories are:

1. Clerical (CL): WK + PC + AR + MK
2. Combat (CO): VE + AS + MC + CS
3. Electronics (EL): GS + AR + MK + EI
4. Field Artillery (FA): AR + MK + MC
5. General Maintenance (GM): GS + AS + MK + EI
6. General Technical (GT): VE + AR
7. Mechanical Maintenance (MM): AS + MC + EI
8. Operators and Food (OF): VE + NO + AS + MC
9. Surveillance and Communications (SC): VE + AR + AS + MC
10. Skilled Technical (ST): GS + VE + MK + MC

Note: VE (Verbal Expression) is a composite of WK (Word Knowledge) and PC (Paragraph Comprehension).

Key Army MOS and Their Line Score Requirements

Here are some popular Army MOS options and their minimum line score requirements:

• 11B Infantry: CO: 87
• 12B Combat Engineer: CO: 87
• 13B Cannon Crewmember: FA: 93
• 15T UH-60 Helicopter Repairer: MM: 104
• 25B Information Technology Specialist: ST: 95
• 31B Military Police: ST: 91
• 35F Intelligence Analyst: ST: 101
• 42A Human Resources Specialist: CL: 90
• 68W Combat Medic Specialist: ST: 101, GT: 105
• 74D Chemical, Biological, Radiological and Nuclear Specialist: ST: 100
• 88M Motor Transport Operator: OF: 85
• 91B Wheeled Vehicle Mechanic: MM: 87
• 92G Culinary Specialist: OF: 85
• 94E Radio and Communications Security Repairer: EL: 93

You can find the complete list of Army MOS codes and their required line scores on the official Army website or through the Army COOL program.

Strategies for Improving Army Line Scores

If you’re aiming for a specific Army MOS, focus your study efforts on the subtests that comprise the relevant line scores:

• For combat roles (11B, 12B, etc.), focus on Word Knowledge, Paragraph Comprehension, Auto & Shop, and Mechanical Comprehension.
• For technical roles (25B, 35F, etc.), concentrate on General Science, Word Knowledge, Paragraph Comprehension, Mathematics Knowledge, and Mechanical Comprehension.
• For maintenance roles (15T, 91B, etc.), prioritize Auto & Shop, Mechanical Comprehension, and Electronics Information.

Navy Line Scores and Rating Requirements

The U.S. Navy uses a system called the Navy Advanced Programs (NAP) line scores to determine qualification for its various ratings (job specialties).

Navy Aptitude Areas

The Navy uses eight line score categories:

1. General Science (GS): VE + MK + GS
2. Electronics (EL): AR + MK + EI
3. Mechanical Comprehension (MC): VE + MC
4. Engineering and Electronics (EE): AR + MK + EI + GS
5. Nuclear Field Qualification (NUC): VE + AR + MK + MC
6. Health Care (HM): VE + MK + GS
7. Verbal Expression (VE): WK + PC
8. Mathematics Knowledge (MK): MK

Key Navy Ratings and Their Line Score Requirements

Here are some popular Navy ratings and their minimum line score requirements:

• Aviation Machinist’s Mate (AD): AR + MC + AS = 140
• Aviation Electronics Technician (AT): AR + MK + EI + GS = 222
• Builder (BU): AR + MC + AS = 140
• Cryptologic Technician (CT): VE + AR + MK + MC = 222
• Electronics Technician (ET): AR + MK + EI + GS = 222
• Fire Controlman (FC): AR + MK + EI + GS = 223
• Hospital Corpsman (HM): VE + MK + GS = 156
• Information Systems Technician (IT): VE + MK + CS = 222
• Machinist’s Mate (MM): VE + AR + MK + AS = 210
• Master-at-Arms (MA): VE + MK = 96
• Navy SEAL (SO): VE + AR + MC + CS = 220
• Nuclear Field (NF): VE + AR + MK + MC = 252
• Sonar Technician (STG): AR + MK + GS = 162
• Yeoman (YN): VE + MK = 105

For a complete list of Navy ratings and their requirements, visit the Navy COOL website or the official Navy website.

Special Navy Programs and Their Requirements

The Navy offers several advanced programs with stringent ASVAB requirements:

• Nuclear Field (NF): Requires a minimum NUC score of 252
• SEAL/SWCC: Requires minimum scores across multiple categories
• Navy Aircrew: Has specific vision and score requirements
• Advanced Technical Field (ATF): Requires higher scores for technical ratings

Strategies for Improving Navy Line Scores

If targeting a specific Navy rating:

• For technical ratings (ET, IT, etc.), focus on Mathematics Knowledge, Arithmetic Reasoning, and Electronics Information.
• For mechanical ratings (MM, AD, etc.), emphasize Mechanical Comprehension and Auto & Shop Information.
• For the Nuclear Field, study across all areas but particularly Mathematics Knowledge, Arithmetic Reasoning, and Mechanical Comprehension.

Air Force Line Scores and AFSC Requirements

The U.S. Air Force uses MAGE (Mechanical, Administrative, General, and Electrical) scores derived from the ASVAB to determine qualification for Air Force Specialty Codes (AFSCs).

Air Force Aptitude Areas (MAGE)

The four Air Force line score categories are:

1. Mechanical (M): MC + GS + 2AS
2. Administrative (A): VE + MK
3. General (G): VE + AR
4. Electrical (E): AR + MK + EI + GS

Key Air Force AFSCs and Their Line Score Requirements

Here are some popular Air Force AFSCs and their minimum MAGE score requirements:

• 1A8X1 Airborne Cryptologic Language Analyst: G: 72
• 1C6X1 Space Systems Operations: E: 70
• 1N4X1 Fusion Analyst: G: 66
• 2A3X4 Fighter Aircraft Maintenance: M: 47
• 2W1X1 Aircraft Armament Systems: M: 60
• 3D0X2 Cyber Systems Operations: E: 64
• 3E4X1 Water and Fuel Systems Maintenance: M: 47
• 3P0X1 Security Forces: G: 33
• 4A0X1 Health Services Management: A: 41
• 4N0X1 Aerospace Medical Service: G: 44
• 4Y0X1 Dental Assistant: G: 45
• 5J0X1 Paralegal: G: 51
• 6F0X1 Financial Management and Comptroller: A: 57
• 9TG44 Electronic Aptitude: E: 70

For a complete list of Air Force AFSCs and their requirements, visit the Air Force COOL website or the official Air Force website.

Special Air Force Programs and Their Requirements

The Air Force has several specialized career fields with higher ASVAB requirements:

• Special Operations: Requires minimum scores across multiple categories and additional physical tests
• Cyber Operations: Typically requires high E scores
• Language-intensive roles: Requires high G scores and additional language aptitude testing

Strategies for Improving Air Force Line Scores

Depending on your target AFSC:

• For mechanical jobs, focus on Mechanical Comprehension, General Science, and Auto & Shop Information.
• For administrative roles, concentrate on Word Knowledge, Paragraph Comprehension, and Mathematics Knowledge.
• For electrical or technical fields, emphasize Arithmetic Reasoning, Mathematics Knowledge, Electronics Information, and General Science.

Marine Corps Line Scores and MOS Requirements

The U.S. Marine Corps uses a system similar to the Army’s, with line scores determining qualification for various Military Occupational Specialties (MOS).

Marine Corps Aptitude Areas

The Marine Corps uses nine line score categories:

1. General Technical (GT): VE + AR
2. Electronics (EL): GS + AR + MK + EI
3. Clerical (CL): VE + MK
4. Mechanical Maintenance (MM): AS + MC + EI
5. General Maintenance (GM): GS + AS + MK + EI
6. Automotive (AT): AS + MC
7. Field Artillery (FA): AR + MK + MC
8. Skilled Technical (ST): GS + VE + MK + MC
9. Communications (CT): VE + AR + MC + AS

Key Marine Corps MOS and Their Line Score Requirements

Here are some popular Marine Corps MOS options and their minimum line score requirements:

• 0111 Administrative Specialist: CL: 100
• 0231 Intelligence Specialist: GT: 110
• 0311 Rifleman: GT: 80
• 0331 Machine Gunner: GT: 80
• 0621 Field Radio Operator: EL: 100
• 0811 Field Artillery Cannoneer: GT: 90
• 1141 Electrician: EL: 100
• 1371 Combat Engineer: GT: 100
• 2111 Small Arms Repairer/Technician: MM: 95
• 2841 Ground Electronics Transmission Systems Repairman: EL: 115
• 3043 Supply Administration and Operations Specialist: CL: 100
• 3051 Warehouse Clerk: CL: 90
• 3381, 3383, 3386 Food Service Specialist: GT: 80
• 5811 Military Police: GT: 100

For a complete list of Marine Corps MOS codes and their required line scores, visit the Marine Corps COOL website or speak with a Marine Corps recruiter.

Marine Corps Special Programs and Their Requirements

The Marine Corps offers several specialized programs with more stringent ASVAB requirements:

• Marine Corps Forces Special Operations Command (MARSOC): Requires minimum GT score of 105
• Marine Security Guard (MSG): Requires minimum GT score of 100
• Marine Corps Embassy Security Group: Has specific GT score requirements

Strategies for Improving Marine Corps Line Scores

Focus your study efforts based on your target MOS:

• For combat arms roles (0311, 0331, etc.), concentrate on improving your GT score by focusing on Verbal Expression and Arithmetic Reasoning.
• For technical roles (0621, 2841, etc.), emphasize Electronics Information, Mathematics Knowledge, and Arithmetic Reasoning.
• For administrative roles (0111, 3043, etc.), focus on Verbal Expression and Mathematics Knowledge to improve your CL score.

Coast Guard Line Scores and Rating Requirements

The U.S. Coast Guard, while part of the Department of Homeland Security during peacetime, uses a system similar to the Navy’s for determining qualification for its ratings.

Coast Guard Aptitude Areas

The Coast Guard uses five primary line score categories:

1. Verbal Expression (VE): WK + PC
2. Arithmetic Reasoning (AR): AR
3. Mathematics Knowledge (MK): MK
4. Electronics Information (EI): EI
5. Assembling Objects (AO): AO

These are often combined in various ways for specific ratings, similar to the Navy’s approach.

Key Coast Guard Ratings and Their Line Score Requirements

Here are some popular Coast Guard ratings and their typical minimum line score requirements:

• Aviation Maintenance Technician (AMT): AR + MC + AS = 162
• Aviation Survival Technician (AST): VE + AR = 115
• Boatswain’s Mate (BM): VE + AR = 100
• Damage Controlman (DC): AR + MC + AS = 150
• Electronics Technician (ET): AR + MK + EI + GS = 223
• Food Service Specialist (FS): VE + AR = 100
• Gunner’s Mate (GM): AR + MC + AS = 165
• Health Services Technician (HS): VE + MK + GS = 163
• Information Systems Technician (IT): VE + AR + MK + CS = 223
• Intelligence Specialist (IS): VE + AR = 115
• Marine Science Technician (MST): VE + AR = 115
• Maritime Enforcement Specialist (ME): VE + AR = 110
• Operations Specialist (OS): AR + 2MK + GS = 210
• Yeoman (YN): VE + MK = 107

For a complete list of Coast Guard ratings and their requirements, visit the Coast Guard COOL website or the official Coast Guard website.

Coast Guard Special Programs and Their Requirements

The Coast Guard offers several specialized programs with higher ASVAB requirements:

• Rescue Swimmer (AST): Has specific score requirements plus rigorous physical tests
• Intelligence Specialist (IS): Requires higher VE and AR scores
• Investigator: Requires specific minimum scores plus additional qualifications

Strategies for Improving Coast Guard Line Scores

Depending on your target rating:

• For maritime enforcement roles (ME), focus on Verbal Expression and Arithmetic Reasoning.
• For technical ratings (ET, IT), emphasize Mathematics Knowledge, Arithmetic Reasoning, and Electronics Information.
• For aviation roles (AMT, AST), concentrate on Mechanical Comprehension and Auto & Shop Information.

Strategies for Maximizing Your ASVAB Line Scores

No matter which branch you’re considering, these strategies can help you maximize your line scores:

Preparation Strategies

1. Understand which subtests matter most: Based on your desired career field, identify which ASVAB subtests have the greatest impact on relevant line scores and focus your study efforts there.
2. Take practice tests: Multiple practice ASVAB tests can help you identify strengths and weaknesses.
3. Use official study materials: The Official ASVAB Study Guide published by the Department of Defense provides authentic practice questions.
4. Consider a prep course: In-person or online ASVAB preparation courses can provide structured study plans and expert guidance.
5. Study consistently: Short, regular study sessions are more effective than cramming.
6. Focus on weak areas: While maintaining your strengths, devote extra time to improving in areas where you score lowest.
7. Learn test-taking strategies: Familiarize yourself with multiple-choice test strategies, time management, and elimination techniques.

Test Day Strategies

1. Get adequate rest: Ensure you’re well-rested before taking the ASVAB.
2. Eat a nutritious meal: Fuel your brain with a balanced meal before the test.
3. Arrive early: Give yourself plenty of time to get to the testing center, check in, and settle your nerves.
4. Read instructions carefully: Make sure you understand exactly what each section is asking.
5. Pace yourself: Be aware of time constraints for each section.
6. Don’t leave questions blank: There’s no penalty for wrong answers, so make an educated guess if needed.
7. Review your answers: If time permits, check your work before submitting.

Retaking the ASVAB for Better Line Scores

If your initial ASVAB scores don’t qualify you for your desired job:

1. Wait the required time: Typically six months between tests, but policies vary by branch.
2. Use your earlier experience: Focus your study on areas where you struggled in the previous test.
3. Understand score policies: In most cases, your most recent scores will be used, even if they’re lower than previous attempts. However, some branches may use the highest scores across multiple tests.
4. Consult with a recruiter: They can provide guidance on retesting policies and strategies specific to your branch of interest.

Waivers and Exceptions: When Line Scores Don’t Quite Match

Sometimes, even when your line scores fall slightly short of requirements, you may still have options:

Line Score Waivers

Depending on the branch and current recruitment needs, waivers may be available for candidates who:

• Fall just short of required line scores (typically within 5-10 points)
• Have exceptional qualifications in other areas
• Possess relevant civilian education or certifications
• Are applying for high-need specialties

Other Qualifying Factors

Beyond line scores, these factors might help you qualify for a waiver:

• College credits or degree in a relevant field
• Prior military experience
• Civilian work experience in a related field
• Professional licenses or certifications
• Strong physical fitness test scores (for certain specialties)

When to Request a Waiver

The process for requesting a line score waiver varies by branch, but generally:

1. Discuss the possibility with your recruiter
2. Provide documentation of any qualifying factors
3. Be prepared to explain why you would succeed in the specialty despite lower scores
4. Understand that waivers are never guaranteed and depend on current needs

How Line Scores Affect Career Progression

Your initial line scores can have long-lasting effects on your military career:

Lateral Moves and Retraining Opportunities

If you wish to change military specialties later in your career:

• Your original ASVAB line scores may still be used to determine eligibility
• Some branches allow retesting after a certain period of service
• Additional military training or education may compensate for lower scores in some cases

Promotion Considerations

While line scores are primarily used for initial job qualification:

• Higher line scores (particularly GT scores) may be required for certain leadership programs
• Some advanced training programs consider line scores in their selection process
• Consistently high performers may receive waivers for line score requirements for career advancement

Officer Programs

If you’re considering officer programs after enlisted service:

• Programs like Officer Candidate School (OCS) may consider your ASVAB scores
• Higher GT scores specifically can be advantageous for officer program applications
• College performance typically becomes more important than ASVAB scores for officer selection

Common Questions About ASVAB Line Scores

How long are ASVAB scores valid?

ASVAB scores are typically valid for two years for enlistment purposes. Once you’ve enlisted, your scores generally remain valid throughout your military career, though some special programs or retraining opportunities may have time limits.

Can I take the ASVAB if I’m still in high school?

Yes, the ASVAB is offered in many high schools as the ASVAB Career Exploration Program. These scores can be used for enlistment if you take the test in 11th or 12th grade and enlist within two years.

If I take the ASVAB multiple times, which scores count?

In most cases, your most recent scores are used, even if they’re lower than previous attempts. This is why it’s crucial to be well-prepared before retaking the test.

Do line score requirements ever change?

Yes, the military periodically updates line score requirements based on job analysis, training success rates, and changes in technology or job duties. Always check with a recruiter for the most current requirements.

Can I qualify for jobs in multiple branches with the same ASVAB scores?

Yes, your ASVAB scores can be used to qualify for jobs across different branches. However, since each branch calculates line scores differently, you might qualify for different types of jobs in each service.

What’s a “good” line score?

There’s no universal “good” score—it depends entirely on the military jobs you’re interested in. Research the requirements for your desired specialties and aim to exceed those minimums.

Conclusion: Making Informed Decisions About Your Military Career

Your ASVAB line scores represent more than just numbers—they’re the key that unlocks specific career paths within the military. By understanding how these scores are calculated and what they mean for different military occupations, you can make strategic decisions about your testing preparation and career planning.

Remember these key takeaways:

1. Focus your preparation: Target your study efforts on the subtests that matter most for your desired career field.
2. Aim higher than minimums: Qualifying scores are just that—minimums. Higher scores give you more options and may provide advantages in the selection process.
3. Consider all branches: If your heart is set on a particular career field but your scores don’t qualify you in one branch, explore similar options in other branches where your scores might meet requirements.
4. Look beyond the numbers: While line scores are important, they’re just one factor in your military career. Your attitude, aptitude, work ethic, and adaptability will ultimately determine your success.
5. Use scores as guidance: Let your line scores help you identify strengths and potential career fits you might not have considered.

The ASVAB is your first opportunity to demonstrate your potential value to the military. By maximizing your line scores, you open doors to challenging, rewarding career paths that align with your skills and interests. Whether you’re drawn to technical specialties, combat roles, administrative positions, or specialized programs, understanding the relationship between your ASVAB performance and military career options is the first step toward a successful military career.

Visit the official military websites or speak with a recruiter to learn more about specific job requirements and opportunities in your branch of interest.

Additional Resources

• Official ASVAB Information
• Military.com ASVAB Study Guide
• Today’s Military Career Explorer
• GoArmy Careers and Jobs
• Navy Careers
• Air Force Careers
• Marine Corps MOS
• Coast Guard Ratings
• Department of Defense COOL Programs (Credentialing Opportunities On-Line)

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