Understanding your 39 ASVAB Score is crucial for mapping out your military career. In this guide, we’ll cover:
- Military eligibility with a 39 ASVAB Score
- Possible career paths, or Military Occupational Specialties (MOS)
- Tips for improving your score
Dive in to fully grasp what a 39 on the ASVAB means for you.
- Is 39 a Good ASVAB Score?
- Military Occupational Specialties (MOS) Available with a 39 ASVAB Score
- Understanding the ASVAB Scoring System
- 39 ASVAB Score: Advantages & Disadvantages
- Tips for Scoring Higher Than a 39 ASVAB Score
- Common Questions or Misconceptions about the ASVAB
- ASVAB Scores 1 to 99
- Conclusion and Next Steps For 39 on ASVAB
Is 39 a Good ASVAB Score?
When it comes to understanding your military career path, the ASVAB score is a critical component. Specifically, a 39 ASVAB Score raises various questions about eligibility, job prospects, and future growth. So, is 39 a good ASVAB score? Let’s break it down.
AFQT Score and Percentile Rankings
The most crucial ASVAB score is the Armed Forces Qualification Test (AFQT) score. Your AFQT score is a percentile ranking, which in the case of a 39, means you’ve scored better than 39% of test-takers in the reference group. It places you in the IIIB AFQT category.
- IIIA: 49-64
- IIIB: 31-49
- IVA: 21-30
This category allows for enlistment in multiple branches but is on the lower end of the spectrum.
Eligibility for Different Military Branches
One of the most immediate concerns with a 39 ASVAB Score is the range of military branches open for enlistment. A quick glance at minimum requirements shows:
- Army: 31
- Marines: 32
- Navy: 35
- Air Force: 36
- Coast Guard: 40
So yes, you can enter various branches like the Army, Marines, Navy, and even the Air Force. However, you miss out on the Coast Guard with a score of 39.
39 ASVAB Score: Advantages and Limitations
Advantages
- Eligibility for multiple branches
- Meeting basic enlistment criteria
Limitations
- Limited MOS choices
- Close to minimum requirements, implying the need for improvement
Military Occupational Specialties (MOS) Available with a 39 ASVAB Score
So you’ve scored a 39 on the ASVAB. Now comes the question that most recruits are eager to answer: What jobs, or Military Occupational Specialties (MOS), are available to you? Your ASVAB score plays a significant role in determining the paths that are open to you in the military.
Basic Eligibility for MOS with a 39 ASVAB Score
A score of 39 does open some doors but generally falls close to the minimum requirements for various military branches. That said, you’ll mostly be looking at entry-level positions.
- Army: Administrative or basic combat roles
- Marines: Infantry and logistical support
- Navy: Seaman roles and basic mechanical positions
- Air Force: Ground crew and logistical roles
Tailoring Expectations: MOS Choices
Your 39 score may limit the range of MOS choices, especially more specialized or technical roles. It’s crucial to have a realistic expectation:
- Technical roles: Likely out of reach
- Combat roles: More accessible but still limited
- Administrative roles: Most likely to be available
Advantages and Disadvantages of MOS Options
Advantages
- Access to basic roles within multiple branches
- Opportunity to get your foot in the door in the military world
Disadvantages
- Limited career progression
- Less eligibility for specialized training and roles
Next Steps for Career Progression
A 39 ASVAB Score isn’t the end of the road; it’s just the beginning. If you’re committed to a more specialized role, consider:
- Retaking the ASVAB for a higher score
- Ongoing training and certification once enlisted
- Mentorship and networking within the military
Understanding the ASVAB Scoring System
Navigating the military enlistment process starts with understanding your ASVAB Score, specifically how it’s calculated and what it signifies. A score of 39 on the ASVAB may raise questions about its implications, so let’s decode the ASVAB scoring system.
What is the AFQT Score?
The Armed Forces Qualification Test (AFQT) is the most important score derived from your ASVAB test. It serves as a percentile ranking, with the reference point being a study conducted in 1997 that had 12,000 participants.
- Percentile Ranking: Determines how well you did compared to other test-takers.
- AFQT Categories: The percentile score places you in various categories, from I to V.
A 39 score places you in AFQT Category IIIB, which opens doors to several branches but also comes with limitations.
Understanding AFQT Categories
AFQT scores fall under different categories, each corresponding to a percentile range. Understanding these categories is critical for knowing where you stand:
- I (93-99): Highly desirable candidates
- II (65-92): Above average scores
- IIIA (49-64): Middle range scores
- IIIB (31-49): Lower middle range
- IVA (21-30): Low scores with limited options
- IVB (16-20), IVC (10-15), V (1-9): Typically ineligible for enlistment
Benefits and Limitations of Scoring in IIIB
Benefits
- Eligibility for multiple military branches
- Fulfills minimum enlistment requirements
Limitations
- Restricted MOS options
- Close to the lower limit, urging for improvement
39 ASVAB Score: Advantages & Disadvantages
So, you’ve got a 39 on the ASVAB, and you’re likely wondering what this score means for your future military career. Understanding the advantages and disadvantages associated with this score is crucial for making informed decisions.
Advantages of Scoring 39 on the ASVAB
When it comes to the perks of a 39 ASVAB Score, there are several key points to consider:
Broad Eligibility
- You meet the basic requirements for enlistment in the Army, Marines, Navy, and Air Force.
Entry-Level Roles
- A score of 39 can serve as your ticket into basic, entry-level roles across multiple military branches.
Flexibility
- A 39 score provides some level of flexibility, allowing you to explore different paths after enlistment.
Disadvantages of Scoring 39 on the ASVAB
While a 39 score does open some doors, it’s also important to be aware of its limitations.
Limited MOS Options
- A 39 ASVAB Score significantly narrows down your options for specialized or technical roles.
Career Progression
- Being on the lower end of the scoring range can limit your career progression and access to advanced training programs.
No Access to Some Branches
- You’re ineligible for enlistment in the Coast Guard, which requires a minimum score of 40.
Weighing the Pros and Cons
When dealing with a 39 ASVAB Score, you have to weigh the pros and cons carefully. The score gives you enough leeway to enter various branches, but your job roles might be limited.
Tips for Scoring Higher Than a 39 ASVAB Score
You’ve got a 39 on the ASVAB and are wondering how to elevate that score for better opportunities and career growth. Scoring higher than a 39 can open doors to more specialized roles and better long-term prospects. Here’s how to go about it:
Study Resources and Materials
The first step in improving your ASVAB Score is gathering quality study materials. Whether it’s practice tests, study guides, or online courses, the right tools are essential.
- Practice Tests: Simulate exam conditions to identify your strengths and weaknesses.
- Study Guides: These provide detailed explanations and strategies for tackling questions.
- Online Courses: For interactive and adaptive learning, consider enrolling in an ASVAB-specific course.
Time Management
Time management is crucial when preparing for the ASVAB. Design a study schedule and stick to it.
- Consistent Study: Consistency is key; allocate a certain number of hours each day to study.
- Breaks and Rest: Overloading can lead to burnout. Take short breaks and ensure sufficient rest.
Focus on Weak Areas
Your AFQT score is the average of four core sections—Arithmetic Reasoning, Word Knowledge, Paragraph Comprehension, and Mathematics Knowledge.
- Identify which areas you’re weak in and allocate more time to them.
- Consider hiring a tutor or seeking mentorship for targeted improvement.
Test-Taking Strategies
On Test Day
- Arrive early to alleviate stress
- Read every question carefully
- Use the process of elimination for questions you’re unsure about
Common Questions or Misconceptions about the ASVAB
When it comes to the ASVAB Score, particularly a score of 39, many misconceptions and questions frequently arise. It’s important to separate fact from fiction to make the most informed decisions about your military career.
Is a 39 ASVAB Score “Bad”?
The notion of a 39 ASVAB Score being “bad” is subjective. While it’s true that a 39 limits your options, it’s not an outright failing score.
- Fact: You can still enlist in several military branches with a 39.
- Fiction: A 39 score means you’re unfit for any form of military service.
Is a 39 Score Hard to Get?
- Fact: Achieving a 39 doesn’t necessarily mean the test was difficult for you; it reflects your standing in relation to other test-takers.
- Fiction: A score of 39 signifies that the ASVAB is an extremely challenging test.
Will a 39 Limit My Career Progression?
While a 39 ASVAB Score may limit your initial job opportunities (MOS), it doesn’t set your entire career path in stone.
- Fact: You can improve your career prospects with ongoing training and possibly retaking the ASVAB.
- Fiction: Your career is permanently stunted with a 39 score.
Can I Only Do Menial Jobs with a 39?
- Fact: With a 39, you’re most likely looking at basic, entry-level positions.
- Fiction: A 39 relegates you to “unimportant” or menial tasks for your entire career.
Do I Need to Retake the ASVAB?
Retaking the ASVAB is an option but not a necessity.
- Fact: If you’re aiming for a broader range of career options, retaking the test is advisable.
- Fiction: You must retake the test; otherwise, your military career is doomed.
ASVAB Scores 1 to 99
Conclusion and Next Steps For 39 on ASVAB
You’ve navigated through the intricate maze of understanding what a 39 ASVAB Score means, its pros and cons, and how you can improve. Now, what should be your next steps? Let’s break it down in a manner that provides both clarity and direction.
Evaluate Your Options
The first thing to do is to thoroughly evaluate the options available to you with a 39 score.
- Basic Enlistment: You qualify for basic roles in most branches except the Coast Guard.
- Career Specialization: Although limited, some specializations are still accessible.
Plan for Improvement
If you’re not fully satisfied with a 39, start planning your ASVAB preparation strategy right away.
- Study Aids: Invest in quality study materials, such as books or online courses.
- Expert Help: A tutor specializing in ASVAB prep can provide targeted guidance.
Revisit Your Long-Term Goals
A 39 ASVAB Score is not the end; it’s merely a snapshot of your abilities at a certain point in time.
- Career Progression: Look into programs or courses that can help you climb the career ladder.
- Retaking the Test: If higher positions or other branches of the military interest you, consider retaking the ASVAB.
Make an Informed Decision
The ultimate step is making an informed decision based on your ASVAB Score, career goals, and personal interests.
- Enlist: If you’re content with the options a 39 score offers, go ahead and enlist.
- Wait and Improve: If you desire more, hold off on enlisting and focus on improving your score.
Final Thoughts
Navigating a 39 ASVAB Score is like sailing through uncharted waters. While it may feel limiting, remember that it is not an insurmountable obstacle. Whether you choose to enlist now or focus on improvement, the choice is yours to make. Armed with knowledge and preparation, you’re ready to take your next steps in your military career journey.