Understanding your 59 ASVAB Score is crucial for shaping your future in the U.S. military.
- What does this score mean?
- How does it affect your career options?
Dive into our comprehensive guide to:
- Decode your ASVAB score
- Explore Military Occupational Specialties (MOS)
- Learn tips for improvement.
- Is 59 a Good ASVAB Score?
- Military Occupational Specialties (MOS) Available with a 59 ASVAB Score
- Understanding the ASVAB Scoring System
- 59 ASVAB Score: Advantages & Disadvantages
- Tips for Achieving a 59 ASVAB Score
- Common Questions or Misconceptions about the ASVAB
- ASVAB Scores 1 to 99
- Conclusion and Next Steps for 59 on ASVAB
Is 59 a Good ASVAB Score?
Understanding the weight of a 59 Score is crucial when planning your military career. This score isn’t just a number; it’s a representation of your abilities and aptitude compared to others. So, how good is a 59 ASVAB score?
Decoding the 59 ASVAB Score
A score of 59 on the Armed Services Vocational Aptitude Battery (ASVAB) test means you’ve scored better than 59% of those who took the exam, based on the 1997 study where 12,000 people participated. This percentile score gives you an edge, categorizing you within AFQT Category IIIA, which ranges from 50 to 64.
Advantages of Scoring in Category IIIA:
- Eligibility for all military branches, including Army, Navy, Marines, Air Force, and Coast Guard.
- Opens doors to a variety of MOS (Military Occupational Specialties).
Drawbacks:
- While you qualify for many roles, certain specialized and highly competitive positions may require higher scores.
How It Compares With Minimum Requirements
Let’s break down the minimum scores you must achieve to enter different military branches:
- Army: 31
- Marines: 32
- Navy: 35
- Air Force: 36
- Coast Guard: 40
With a 59 score, not only do you meet these requirements, but you also exceed them by a considerable margin. This offers a broader range of options and makes you a more attractive candidate for diverse roles.
Better Than Average, But How Good?
A 59 score is indeed better than average. However, remember that higher scores can provide additional benefits like higher signing bonuses and eligibility for certain specialized training programs.
Military Occupational Specialties (MOS) Available with a 59 ASVAB Score
A 59 Score doesn’t just grant you entry into the military; it sets the stage for your career by defining the range of Military Occupational Specialties (MOS) you can pursue. Your score essentially serves as a career compass. So, what MOS can you aim for with a 59 ASVAB score?
Broad Range of Opportunities
The good news? A score of 59 opens up a wide array of options across all branches. Whether you’re interested in administrative roles, combat, or technical jobs, you’ve got choices.
Common MOS options with a 59 ASVAB score:
- Combat roles: Infantry, artillery
- Administrative roles: Human Resources Specialist, Finance Management
- Mechanical roles: Wheeled Vehicle Mechanic, Aircraft Maintenance
- Technical jobs: IT Specialist, Medical Logistics
Branch-Specific MOS
Depending on the branch you’re interested in, a 59 ASVAB score can offer distinct opportunities. Each branch has its own set of roles that might appeal to your skills and interests.
- Army: Medical and logistics roles
- Navy: Ratings like Operations Specialist and Hospital Corpsman
- Air Force: Entry into roles like Security Forces or Aircraft Structural Maintenance
- Marines: Opportunities in artillery or engineering fields
- Coast Guard: Ratings like Boatswain’s Mate or Operations Specialist
Competitiveness and Limitations
While a 59 score is impressive, some of the highly specialized and competitive MOS may require a higher ASVAB score. For example, roles in intelligence or medical research might be out of reach.
To Recap:
- A 59 ASVAB score provides a broad array of MOS opportunities.
- Your choice of branch can influence the specific roles open to you.
- Some highly specialized roles may require higher ASVAB scores for qualification.
Understanding the ASVAB Scoring System
If you’re aiming for a 59 ASVAB Score, it’s crucial to grasp the underlying scoring mechanism of the Armed Services Vocational Aptitude Battery (ASVAB). This knowledge will not only help you understand your standing but also inform your preparation strategy.
What is the AFQT Score?
The Armed Forces Qualification Test (AFQT) score is derived from four areas of the ASVAB: Arithmetic Reasoning (AR), Mathematics Knowledge (MK), Paragraph Comprehension (PC), and Word Knowledge (WK). Your AFQT score is a percentile score that indicates how you fared compared to a reference group.
Key Points about AFQT:
- It’s the most critical score for military qualification.
- It’s a percentile score based on a 1997 study where 12,000 people participated.
- Your AFQT score categorizes you into AFQT Categories which range from I to V.
AFQT Categories
The Department of Defense has classified AFQT scores into various categories, each corresponding to a specific percentile range. Here’s how they break down:
AFQT Categories and Percentile Score Range:
- Category I: 93-99
- Category II: 65-92
- Category IIIA: 50-64
- Category IIIB: 31-49
- Category IVA: 21-30
- Category IVB: 16-20
- Category IVC: 10-15
- Category V: 1-9
A 59 ASVAB score places you in Category IIIA, making you a competitive candidate for a wide range of roles.
Interpreting a 59 ASVAB Score
A 59 ASVAB score means:
- You’ve scored better than 59% of the 12,000 people from the 1997 study.
- You fall into AFQT Category IIIA.
- You exceed the minimum ASVAB requirements for all military branches.
59 ASVAB Score: Advantages & Disadvantages
Understanding the Advantages & Disadvantages of a 59 ASVAB Score is vital for anyone considering a military career. This balanced insight can help you make an informed decision on whether to aim higher or to proceed with enlisting based on your current score.
Advantages of a 59 ASVAB Score
A 59 ASVAB Score has several benefits that can boost your military career right from the start:
Eligibility for All Branches:
- A 59 score qualifies you for all the branches including the Army, Navy, Air Force, Marines, and Coast Guard.
Versatile MOS Options:
- With this score, you’re not just limited to basic roles; you can aspire for a variety of Military Occupational Specialties.
Higher Than Average Score:
- Scoring 59 means you performed better than 59% of the people in the reference group, placing you above average.
Disadvantages of a 59 ASVAB Score
However, there are some limitations you should be aware of:
Limited Access to Specialized Roles:
- Highly specialized jobs like those in intelligence or aviation may require higher ASVAB scores.
Lower Signing Bonuses:
- While a 59 score is decent, higher scores often come with greater signing bonuses and educational benefits.
Room for Improvement:
- While you’re above average, you’re not in the top-tier categories, meaning there is room for improvement if you aim for highly competitive roles.
Balancing the Pros and Cons
When deciding whether a 59 score is good enough for you, consider the following:
- Assess your career goals: Are they aligned with the roles your score makes you eligible for?
- Examine the benefits: Are you satisfied with the potential signing bonuses and educational perks?
In Summary:
- A 59 Score provides a wide range of career options but has limitations for specialized roles.
- It’s crucial to weigh these pros and cons against your career aspirations in the military.
Tips for Achieving a 59 ASVAB Score
So you’re aiming for a 59 ASVAB —a score that’s not just passable but commendably above average. Whether you’re retaking the test or are a first-timer, there are specific strategies you can adopt to hit or even surpass that number.
Understanding ASVAB Sections
The first step to achieving a 59 Score is understanding the key sections of the ASVAB test. These are:
- Arithmetic Reasoning (AR)
- Mathematics Knowledge (MK)
- Paragraph Comprehension (PC)
- Word Knowledge (WK)
Essential Tips:
- Focus on your weakest areas: Identify them through practice tests.
- Leverage online resources: Websites, apps, and forums can provide valuable practice.
Effective Study Habits
Effective study habits are your best ally in achieving that coveted 59 score.
Pro Tips:
- Create a study schedule: Consistency beats cramming.
- Use active recall and spaced repetition: These techniques improve retention.
- Join a study group: Different perspectives can enhance your understanding.
Mock Tests and Timed Practice
Taking mock tests will not only acclimatize you to the test format but also improve your speed and accuracy.
Guidelines for Mock Tests:
- Take them under exam conditions: No distractions, strict timing.
- Review your answers: Understand your mistakes to avoid repeating them.
Day Before The Test
The day before the test is as crucial as the weeks leading to it.
Key Pointers:
- Rest well: A tired brain is an ineffective one.
- Review but don’t cram: Light revision can keep the information fresh in your mind.
To Recap:
- Understand the ASVAB sections and focus on your weak points.
- Develop effective study habits and take mock tests regularly.
- Prepare your mind and body the day before the test.
Common Questions or Misconceptions about the ASVAB
Navigating the maze of military tests and qualifications can be confusing, and that includes understanding the ASVAB score. A score on the ASVAB comes with its own set of questions and misconceptions. Let’s clear the air.
Is a 59 ASVAB Score Good or Bad?
One of the most commonly asked questions is whether a 59 ASVAB Score is good or bad. To put it simply:
- A 59 score is above average, as you’ve outperformed 59% of the reference group.
Key Takeaway: A 59 ASVAB Score is good enough for entry into all military branches and qualifies you for a variety of Military Occupational Specialties (MOS).
How Hard Is It to Get a 59 on the ASVAB?
Another question that often surfaces is the difficulty level of achieving a 59 ASVAB score.
Important to Note:
- The difficulty varies from person to person, depending on their academic background and study habits.
What Type of Jobs Can a 59 ASVAB Score Get Me?
Many candidates wonder about the job opportunities a ASVAB score can offer.
- With a 59 score, you qualify for a broad range of MOS roles but may miss out on highly specialized jobs that require higher scores.
Should I Retake the Test?
The question of retaking the test is often a personal one, influenced by your career goals.
Considerations for Retaking:
- If you’re targeting specialized roles requiring a higher ASVAB score, then yes.
- If you’re satisfied with the MOS roles accessible with a 59, then there may not be a need.
Frequently Asked Questions & Misconceptions:
- Is a ASVAB score only applicable for Army roles? No, it qualifies you for all branches.
- Does a 59 score limit my career progression? Not necessarily, but higher scores may offer more opportunities.
ASVAB Scores 1 to 99
Conclusion and Next Steps for 59 on ASVAB
You’ve made it to the end of this comprehensive guide on what a ASVAB Score means for your military career. Now, it’s time to consider the next steps based on this score.
Reassess Your Career Goals
The first step after getting your ASVAB score is to reassess your career goals. A 59 is a versatile score that can be your ticket to multiple roles but think about what you actually want to do.
Questions to Consider:
- Do your career ambitions require a higher score?
- Are you satisfied with the MOS roles currently available to you?
Seek Professional Guidance
Don’t hesitate to seek professional advice. Career counselors in the military are well-equipped to guide you.
Why Consult a Counselor?:
- They can provide a detailed breakdown of what your score means.
- They can advise you on whether retaking the test is a good option.
Preparation for Enlistment
If you decide that a ASVAB Score aligns with your career goals, then prepare for the enlistment process.
Checklist for Enlistment:
- Complete any remaining paperwork.
- Prepare for any subsequent interviews or assessments.
- Keep fit; physical assessment is also a part of the enlistment process.
Consider Retaking the Test
If after all considerations, you decide that a higher score will significantly benefit your career, you might want to consider retaking the ASVAB.
Tips for Retaking:
- Understand the retest policy, including the waiting period.
- Focus on improving the areas where you scored low.
To Recap:
- A ASVAB Score is a solid foundation for a military career, but further steps depend on your personal career goals.
- Consult professional guidance and consider your enlistment or retest options carefully.
You’re now armed with all the information you need about a score. Whether you choose to move forward with this score or aim for a higher one, remember that preparation and informed decision-making are key to a successful military career.