38 ASVAB Score – Is 38 A Good ASVAB Score?

Understanding your 38 ASVAB Score is crucial for your military career prospects.

• In this guide, we’ll explore what a score of 38 means.
• We’ll also dive into the military branches you’re eligible for,
• And offer tips to improve your ASVAB score.

Whether you’re a newbie or seeking to understand the ASVAB scoring system, this guide is your go-to resource.

Is 38 a Good ASVAB Score?

When you receive a 38 ASVAB Score, you might wonder where you stand in terms of military career opportunities. Let’s unpack what this score truly means for you.

Understanding Percentile Ranking

First and foremost, your 38 Score falls into a specific percentile ranking. This percentile is a measure against a study conducted in 1997, involving 12,000 ASVAB test-takers. A score of 38 indicates that you performed better than 38% of those participants but fell short compared to the remaining 62%.

• High percentile: Indicates strong candidacy for various military roles
• Low percentile: Suggests limited options and may necessitate retaking the test

Eligibility for Military Branches

With a 38 Score, your military branch options are:

• Army: Minimum score required is 31
• Marines: Minimum score required is 32
• Navy: Minimum score required is 35
• Air Force: Minimum score required is 36

Unfortunately, the Coast Guard is not an option as their minimum score requirement is 40. So, while a score of 38 qualifies you for several branches, it still sets some limitations.

AFQT Categories

Your ASVAB score also places you in a specific AFQT Category. In your case, a 38 puts you in Category IIIB, which is considered average.

• Category I: Exceptional candidates
• Category IIIB: Average candidates, like those with a 38 ASVAB Score
• Category V: Candidates who face severe limitations in job options

Is a 38 Good or Bad?

The question of whether a 38 Score is “good” or “bad” is subjective. While it does allow for a range of opportunities, it’s close to the minimum score requirements for many branches. Improving your score could significantly widen your choices and potentially lead to more lucrative enlistment bonuses or specialized training options.

Military Occupational Specialties (MOS) Available with a 38 ASVAB Score

Job Opportunities in Different Branches

So, you’ve got a 38 Score—now what? One of the most pressing questions you might have is the type of jobs or roles you can apply for. After all, the Military Occupational Specialties (MOS) available to you largely depend on your ASVAB score.

• Army: Jobs may be more limited but still available in areas like logistics, administration, or infantry.
• Marines: Similar to the Army, roles in supply and administration could be an option.
• Navy: Opportunities in logistics, as well as some technical roles, may be accessible.
• Air Force: Ground operations and administration roles might be open to you.

Importance of MOS for Career Growth

Choosing the right MOS can have a lasting impact on your military career and even your civilian career post-service. While a 38 ASVAB Score gives you some options, boosting your score could provide you with the chance to enter specialized roles that offer:

• Career development
• Higher earning potential
• More exciting job roles

MOS Recommendations for a 38 ASVAB Score

If you have a 38 ASVAB Score, some recommended roles include:

• Administrative Roles: Jobs like clerks, assistants, and other admin roles often require scores around the 30s.
• Ground Forces: Infantry and other ground troop roles may also be available.
• Support Services: This includes jobs in food service, supply, and logistics.

Looking Beyond Your 38 Score

While a 38 ASVAB Score qualifies you for certain roles, you may not want to limit yourself. If you aspire to jobs that require higher qualifications or more technical skills, consider retaking the ASVAB to aim for a higher score.

Understanding the ASVAB Scoring System

Navigating through your military career begins with a thorough understanding of the ASVAB scoring system. Especially when you have a specific score, like a 38 Score, it’s essential to know what this number means in the grand scheme of things.

AFQT: The Score That Matters Most

When talking about ASVAB scores, the Armed Forces Qualification Test (AFQT) score is what you really want to focus on. This percentile score, based on a 1997 study with 12,000 participants, provides a comparative measure of how you stack up against other test-takers.

• High AFQT: Leads to more career opportunities and eligibility for enlistment bonuses.
• Average to Low AFQT: Limits the range of military branches and roles you can take on.

AFQT Categories

The AFQT score is divided into various categories that range from I to V. Each category represents a percentile score range:

• Category I: 93-99 percentile
• Category II: 65-92 percentile
• Category IIIA: 49-64 percentile
• Category IIIB: 31-49 percentile, where a 38 ASVAB Score would fall
• Category IV: 10-30 percentile
• Category V: 1-9 percentile

What Each Category Means for You

Being in Category IIIB with a 38 ASVAB Score means:

• You meet the minimum requirements for most military branches, except the Coast Guard.
• Your job roles are relatively limited compared to higher categories.

The Components of ASVAB

The ASVAB test is divided into several subtests that measure your abilities in different academic and technical areas. Understanding these components can help you know where to focus your study efforts.

• Math and English: These have the most significant impact on your AFQT score.
• Technical and Mechanical: Important for specialized roles but not included in the AFQT.

38 ASVAB Score: Advantages & Disadvantages

So you’ve scored a 38 on the ASVAB, and you’re probably wondering what kind of advantages or disadvantages this brings to your military career prospects. Let’s break down both sides of the coin to give you a comprehensive view.

Advantages of a 38 ASVAB Score

There are some perks to scoring a 38, and they include:

• Branch Eligibility: Your score allows you to qualify for several branches including the Army, Navy, Marines, and Air Force.
  • Diverse Choices: This opens the door to a variety of experiences and job roles.
• Basic Eligibility for Enlistment: A 38 ASVAB score usually meets the minimum requirements for enlistment, sparing you from the need to retake the test immediately.
  • Quick Entry: If you’re looking to enlist without delay, a 38 might suffice.

Disadvantages of a 38 ASVAB Score

However, a 38 ASVAB Score has its drawbacks:

• Limited Job Roles: With this score, you may face restrictions in the types of Military Occupational Specialties (MOS) available to you.
  • Lack of Specialized Roles: Don’t expect to qualify for technical or specialized roles.
• Lower Enlistment Bonuses: Generally, higher ASVAB scores may attract better enlistment bonuses.
  • Missed Financial Opportunities: A higher score could have netted you a more lucrative deal.

Should You Aim Higher?

Given these pros and cons, the real question is, should you aim for a higher score?

• Retaking the ASVAB: If you’re not satisfied with the MOS choices or potential bonuses, retaking the test after some focused study can be a good strategy.
• Time Investment: Consider the time needed to prepare for another test. If immediate enlistment isn’t a priority, it might be worth the time and effort to aim higher.

Tips for Scoring Higher Than a 38 ASVAB Score

You’ve gotten a 38 Score, and now you’re considering whether you should aim for a higher score. But how can you effectively prepare for the ASVAB to increase your score? Here are some tailored strategies to help you aim higher.

Study Resources You Can Use

There’s a plethora of resources available to help you improve your ASVAB score. Make sure to use:

• Online Study Guides: Websites offer a variety of subject-focused guides to hone your skills.
• Practice Tests: These give you a realistic sense of the actual test and help identify your weak areas.
• Tutoring: If you’re struggling with certain sections, professional tutoring can offer personalized guidance.

Focused Areas of Study

To improve your 38 ASVAB Score, concentrate on the subjects that will most impact your AFQT score:

• Math and English: These two subjects are crucial, as they directly affect your AFQT score.
• Technical Skills: While not part of the AFQT, these can be important for specialized roles you may be interested in.

Time Management Tips

Improving your ASVAB score isn’t just about studying harder; it’s about studying smarter.

• Create a Study Schedule: Consistency is key, so make sure to allocate specific time slots for your ASVAB prep.
• Prioritize Weak Areas: Don’t spend time on subjects you’re already proficient in. Focus on your weak spots instead.

Test-taking Strategies

Finally, having a solid approach to the test can be as crucial as the knowledge you bring to it.

• Answer Every Question: There’s no penalty for guessing, so make sure to attempt every question.
• Use Process of Elimination: When in doubt, eliminating wrong answers can help you make an educated guess.

Common Questions or Misconceptions about the ASVAB

The ASVAB test is often surrounded by a cloud of myths and questions that can add unnecessary stress to test-takers. Let’s debunk some of these misconceptions and answer frequent questions, particularly as they relate to a 38 ASVAB Score.

Is a 38 ASVAB Score Bad?

• Not Necessarily: While a 38 is near the minimum eligibility for many military branches, it doesn’t mean it’s a ‘bad’ score. It just limits your options in terms of job roles and enlistment bonuses.

How Many People Score 38 on ASVAB?

• Variable Statistics: There isn’t publicly available data on exact numbers, but scoring 38 means you performed better than 38% of test-takers in the reference population.

What MOS is Available with a Score of 38 on the ASVAB?

• Limited Range: With a 38 ASVAB score, your available MOS options are generally more limited compared to those who score higher. You are most likely to qualify for basic, non-technical roles.

How Good Is a Composite Score of 38 on the ASVAB?

• Different Measures: Note that a composite score is not the same as the AFQT score. Composite scores are calculated differently and are used to qualify individuals for specific job roles.

Is it Hard to Get a 38 on the ASVAB?

• Relative Difficulty: The difficulty of scoring a 38 largely depends on your academic background and study habits. For some, it may require little effort, while for others, achieving this score might be challenging.

Should I Retake the ASVAB if I Score 38?

• Consider Your Goals: If you are not satisfied with the job roles available or the enlistment bonuses offered, then retaking the test after better preparation could be a wise decision.

ASVAB Scores 1 to 99

Conclusion and Next Steps For 38 on ASVAB

You’ve delved deep into understanding what a 38 ASVAB Score means for your military career. It’s a critical junction where you decide whether to proceed with the options available to you or aim for a higher score to broaden your opportunities.

Evaluate Your Goals

First and foremost, reevaluate your career goals.

• Job Roles: Are you happy with the Military Occupational Specialties (MOS) available to you?
• Branch Preference: Is your preferred military branch within reach with your current score?
• Long-Term Plans: Does your score align with your long-term career aspirations in the military?

Consider Retaking the Test

If you’ve decided to aim for a higher score:

• Study Resources: Invest in study guides, practice tests, and possibly tutoring.
• Test-taking Strategies: Employ smart tactics like time management and process of elimination.

Consult a Recruiter

• Insider Information: A recruiter can provide you personalized guidance on how your ASVAB score impacts your enlistment options.

Next Steps

So, what should be your next move?

• Immediate Enlistment: If you’re content with the MOS and branch options available, go ahead and enlist.
• Test Retake: If you decide to aim higher, start preparing for the next ASVAB test.

Regardless of your choice, make sure to:

• Stay Informed: Keep yourself updated with any changes in enlistment policies or ASVAB score requirements.
• Be Prepared: Whether it’s basic training or another round of ASVAB, preparation is key to your success.

To sum up, a 38 ASVAB Score is not an end but a fork in the road that allows you to choose your path. Each option has its pros and cons, and the best choice depends on your personal and career objectives. Make a calculated decision and proceed with confidence; the military offers a world of opportunities for those who are prepared.