Understanding your 37 ASVAB Score is crucial for your military career prospects. In this article, we’ll cover:
- Military branches you can join
- ASVAB scoring system
- Tips for improving your score
Discover how a 37 impacts your options and what you can do about it.
Is 37 a Good ASVAB Score?
When it comes to understanding your 37 ASVAB Score, context is everything. Let’s dive deep into what this number means for you, especially in relation to military branches and career opportunities.
The Percentile Factor
Firstly, it’s essential to understand that a score of 37 places you in a specific percentile. Your 37 ASVAB score implies that you’ve outperformed 37% of the participants in the 1997 study by the Department of Defense, where 12,000 individuals took part. Conversely, this means your results are lower than 63% of those participants.
- The Good News: You’re eligible to join several branches of the military.
- The Not-So-Good News: Your options for Military Occupational Specialties (MOS) may be limited.
Comparing with Military Branch Requirements
Different branches of the U.S. military have various minimum ASVAB score requirements:
- Army: 31
- Marines: 32
- Navy: 35
- Air Force: 36
- Coast Guard: 40
Congratulations, your 37 ASVAB Score allows you entry into the Army, Marines, Navy, and Air Force! However, it’s worth noting that you’re quite close to the minimum score requirements, limiting your MOS options.
AFQT Categories
Understanding AFQT categories can further illuminate the implications of a 37 score. The AFQT score is grouped into categories ranging from Category I (93-99 percentile) to Category V (1-9 percentile). With a 37, you fall into:
- Category IIIB: 31-49 percentile
This category suggests that while you are eligible for service, there’s room for improvement to unlock more opportunities.
Military Occupational Specialties (MOS) Available with a 37 ASVAB Score
So you’ve received a 37 ASVAB Score and you’re wondering what this means for your career in the military. Given that your score is close to the minimum requirements for several branches, you may have questions about the range of Military Occupational Specialties (MOS) open to you.
Entry-level MOS Options
With a 37, your options may be somewhat limited but they are certainly not nonexistent. Depending on the branch you are interested in, here are some roles that might be available:
- Army: Infantry, Artillery
- Marines: Motor Transport, Food Service
- Navy: Deck Seaman, Culinary Specialist
- Air Force: General Maintenance, Logistics
MOS Availability and Advancements
It’s essential to understand that while a 37 may get you through the door, it may not offer the most lucrative or advanced career paths.
- Pros: Entry into multiple military branches is achievable.
- Cons: Limited choices in specialized roles and potentially slower career advancement.
Additional Considerations
- Retaking the ASVAB: If you’re keen on a specific MOS that requires a higher score, consider retesting.
- Training Programs: Some branches offer training programs to help improve your ASVAB score and subsequently, your MOS options.
Understanding Branch-Specific Requirements
Every military branch has unique ASVAB requirements for different MOS. For instance, the Army might have different demands for a medical role compared to a technical role. Therefore, you should consult with a recruiter to gain a better understanding of how your 37 ASVAB Score translates into MOS opportunities within your preferred branch.
Understanding the ASVAB Scoring System
If you’re on the path to joining the military, mastering the ins and outs of the ASVAB scoring system can be your ticket to a more prosperous career. Given that you have a 37 ASVAB Score, it’s crucial to grasp how these numbers are calculated and what they mean.
The Role of AFQT
The Armed Forces Qualification Test (AFQT) score is perhaps the most vital part of your ASVAB results. This percentile-based score is derived from four subtests and gives you a comparative rank based on a reference group.
- What it Means: The AFQT score tells you how well you’ve performed relative to a benchmark group. In this case, the reference group comes from a 1997 study involving 12,000 participants.
- Why it’s Important: It’s the AFQT score that determines your eligibility for enlistment in different branches of the military.
AFQT Categories and Your Score
Your AFQT score is categorized into different groups, ranging from Category I to V. Your 37 ASVAB Score falls under:
- Category IIIB: Ranging from 31 to 49 percentile.
Being in Category IIIB means you’ve met the minimum qualifications for several branches but may find limited options when it comes to specialized roles.
Other Score Components
Apart from AFQT, the ASVAB includes additional subtests that evaluate your abilities in various domains. These scores can also impact the types of MOS roles you qualify for.
- Standard Scores: Each ASVAB subtest provides a standard score that shows how you’ve performed compared to a national sample of youth.
- Composite Scores: These are combinations of standard scores and they vary by service branch.
By understanding these elements, you’ll get a fuller picture of what your 37 ASVAB Score means and how you can best prepare for your future in the military.
37 ASVAB Score: Advantages & Disadvantages
Armed with a 37 ASVAB Score, it’s essential to weigh the pros and cons of this result for your military career aspirations. Understanding the advantages and disadvantages can help you make informed decisions about your next steps.
Advantages of a 37 ASVAB Score
Let’s start with the good news. A 37 score is above the minimum requirements for several military branches:
- Wider Eligibility: You’re eligible for the Army, Marines, Navy, and Air Force.
- Foot in the Door: It provides a starting point, allowing you to gain valuable experience and potentially move up.
- Lower Competitive Pressure: With a score that’s closer to the minimum, you might find less competition for certain entry-level roles.
Disadvantages of a 37 ASVAB Score
While a 37 score can get you in, it also has some limitations:
- Limited MOS Choices: The range of Military Occupational Specialties (MOS) will be relatively narrow.
- Less Room for Advancement: With a lower score, you may face limitations in career advancement and specialized training opportunities.
- Ineligibility for Certain Branches: A 37 doesn’t meet the minimum requirement for the Coast Guard, which is 40.
Balancing Act: Making the Most of a 37
Here are some tips for maximizing the advantages and mitigating the disadvantages:
- Retake the Test: If you’re aiming for a more specialized role or a different branch, consider retaking the ASVAB.
- Utilize Training Programs: Some branches offer preparatory courses to help you improve your score.
- Consult with a Recruiter: A recruiter can provide specific guidance tailored to your score and career ambitions.
Tips for Scoring Higher Than a 37 ASVAB Score
If you’re setting your sights beyond a 37 ASVAB Score, you’ll be pleased to know that there are actionable steps you can take to improve. Elevating your score can unlock a wider array of career opportunities, not to mention the benefits that come with specialized roles and quicker career advancement.
Identifying Your Weak Areas
Before diving into extensive preparation, it’s crucial to identify which areas need the most improvement.
- AFQT Focus: Since the AFQT score is central to your overall ranking, zero in on the four subtests that make up this score.
- Subtest Analysis: Review your performance on all the subtests to spot where you have room for growth.
Effective Study Strategies
Once you know your weak points, tailor your study plan accordingly. Here are some study tips:
- Use Practice Tests: Frequent practice tests can give you a realistic picture of where you stand.
- Break it Down: Segment your study time to focus on different subjects each day.
- Study Groups: Collaborate with others who are preparing for the ASVAB to gain diverse perspectives.
Utilizing Resources
Thankfully, there’s no shortage of study resources available:
- Books and Guides: Numerous ASVAB preparation books offer in-depth material and practice tests.
- Online Courses: Websites and apps provide interactive learning and instant feedback.
- Tutors: Personalized one-on-one tutoring can be highly effective, albeit more expensive.
Time Management and Mental Preparation
Finally, managing your study time wisely and preparing mentally are equally important.
- Set Timelines: Allocate specific time blocks for study sessions and stick to them.
- Relaxation Techniques: Use mindfulness or deep-breathing exercises to maintain a calm mindset during the test.
Common Questions or Misconceptions about the ASVAB
Navigating the path to military enlistment comes with its set of queries and myths, especially concerning the ASVAB score. While a 37 ASVAB Score may seem straightforward, several common misconceptions could sway your understanding and subsequent actions.
Can I Join the Military with a 37?
Yes, a score of 37 does allow for enlistment in several branches like the Army, Navy, Marines, and Air Force. However:
- Fact: While a 37 qualifies you for enlistment, it limits your MOS options.
- Myth: Some people believe that a low ASVAB score might not allow them to enlist at all, which isn’t true for a 37.
Is a 37 ASVAB Score Good or Bad?
This is subjective and depends on your career aspirations.
- Fact: It’s above the minimum score for most military branches.
- Myth: A common misconception is that a score of 37 is ‘bad’ and restricts you from any form of career advancement.
How Hard Is It to Score Higher than 37?
Improving your score is achievable with targeted preparation.
- Fact: Many resources, from books to online courses, can help you boost your score.
- Myth: Some think it’s almost impossible to improve an ASVAB score significantly, which is not accurate.
Does a 37 Limit My Career Progression?
- Fact: A 37 does place some limitations on initial MOS choices and might slow down your career progression.
- Myth: There’s a misconception that a low score locks you into a ‘dead-end’ role, which isn’t necessarily true.
Should I Retake the ASVAB?
- Fact: Retaking the ASVAB is an option and can lead to more career opportunities.
- Myth: Some believe once you have an ASVAB score, it’s set in stone. You can retake the test to aim for a higher score.
ASVAB Scores 1 to 99
Conclusion and Next Steps For 37 on ASVAB
So, you’ve got a 37 ASVAB Score. While this score gets your foot in the door of multiple military branches, it’s just the starting point of your military career journey. With the proper steps, you can expand your opportunities and even aim for a higher score.
Make an Informed Decision
By now, you should have a well-rounded understanding of what a 37 score means for you:
- Career Path: Know which Military Occupational Specialties (MOS) are available to you.
- Advantages & Limitations: Understand the pros and cons related to your ASVAB score.
- Common Questions & Myths: Dispelled any misconceptions that could cloud your judgment.
37 ASVAB Score: What Are Your Next Steps?
Here’s a roadmap to guide your next actions:
- Retake the ASVAB: If you’re keen on expanding your MOS choices or aiming for a more specialized role.
- Speak with a Recruiter: They can provide tailored advice based on your career goals.
- Enlist: If you’re content with the opportunities available, go ahead and enlist.
Continual Improvement
Remember, a 37 ASVAB Score doesn’t have to define your military career. There are numerous paths for:
- Career Advancement: Through in-service training and courses, you can move up the ranks.
- Specializations: You can opt for specialized training once you’re in.
- Leadership Roles: As you gain experience and demonstrate competency, leadership roles may become accessible.
Concluding Thoughts
In a nutshell, a 37 ASVAB Score isn’t a dead-end but rather a stepping stone. It qualifies you for multiple branches and offers a platform for improvement. What’s essential is that you’re informed and ready to take strategic actions that propel you toward a fulfilling military career.
Whether you choose to enlist now or focus on improving your score, the decision lies in your hands. Use this guide as a reference point and make the choices that align with your career aspirations. The sky’s the limit when it comes to your potential in the military world.