Understanding your 68 ASVAB Score can be crucial for your military career. In this guide, we’ll explore:
- Is a 68 a Good ASVAB Score?
- Military Occupational Specialties (MOS) Available
- Advantages and Disadvantages
Get the full picture on your 68 ASVAB score and what it means for you.
- Is 68 a Good ASVAB Score?
- Military Occupational Specialties (MOS) Available with a 68 ASVAB Score
- Understanding the ASVAB Scoring System
- 68 ASVAB Score: Advantages & Disadvantages
- Tips for Achieving a 68 ASVAB Score
- Common Questions or Misconceptions about the ASVAB
- ASVAB Scores 1 to 99
- Conclusion and Next Steps For 68 on ASVAB
Is 68 a Good ASVAB Score?
When it comes to understanding your ASVAB score, context is key. A 68 ASVAB score, to be precise, is more than just a number. It can dictate the trajectory of your military career, offering a range of possibilities. But, is 68 a good ASVAB score? Let’s break it down.
The AFQT Category: Where Does 68 Fall?
- Your score falls into the AFQT Category II, which is an impressive range.
- According to a study conducted in 1997 by the Department of Defense, a score of 68 is better than 68% of the test-takers.
What does this mean for you? You’re in a favorable position, especially when it comes to enlisting in any military branch.
Eligibility for Military Branches
With a 68 ASVAB score, you’re eligible to enlist in all U.S. military branches. Each branch has its own minimum ASVAB score for enlistment:
- Army: Minimum score of 31
- Marines: Minimum score of 32
- Navy: Minimum score of 35
- Air Force: Minimum score of 36
- Coast Guard: Minimum score of 40
Your score not only surpasses these minimum requirements but also puts you in a category where you’re considered a desirable candidate.
Advantages and Disadvantages
Advantages:
- Access to a broader range of Military Occupational Specialties (MOS).
- Potentially higher signing bonuses or educational benefits.
Disadvantages:
- While a 68 is strong, it may still limit you from some highly specialized roles requiring even higher scores.
Military Occupational Specialties (MOS) Available with a 68 ASVAB Score
A 68 ASVAB score doesn’t just mean you’ve passed the test; it opens up a world of opportunities in terms of your military career. The Military Occupational Specialties (MOS) you can access are varied and rewarding, letting you leverage your skills and interests in meaningful ways.
Broad Range of Options
With a 68 ASVAB score, you’ve essentially got a golden ticket to various MOS paths. This score allows you to enlist in every branch, making you a viable candidate for a broad range of roles. Here’s why this is important:
- Diversity of Skills: A higher score like 68 signifies a well-rounded skill set, making you eligible for roles that require varied abilities.
- Career Growth: The better the MOS, the more potential for career advancement and growth in the military.
Specialized Roles and Limitations
While a score of 68 offers a lot of options, it might still fall short for a handful of highly specialized roles. Some roles in intelligence, engineering, or aviation may require higher scores or specific line scores in addition to the AFQT score.
Potential Limitations:
- Highly specialized roles like those in cyber intelligence or aviation engineering might require scores above 70 or specific subtest scores.
- Security clearance levels for some roles may require additional qualifications, beyond just a good ASVAB score.
Top MOS Options for a 68 ASVAB Score
- Combat roles: Such as infantry or artillery.
- Support roles: Including logistics and administration.
- Technical roles: Like communication or IT specialists
Understanding the ASVAB Scoring System
Navigating the intricacies of the ASVAB scoring system is crucial to making the most of your 68 ASVAB score. Here we dive deep into how scores like yours are calculated, what they mean, and how they can impact your military journey.
The Importance of AFQT Score
The Armed Services Qualification Test (AFQT) is a percentile score and is the most important ASVAB score for your military enlistment. It’s derived from a blend of different sub-tests within the ASVAB:
- Math Knowledge (MK)
- Arithmetic Reasoning (AR)
- Word Knowledge (WK)
- Paragraph Comprehension (PC)
Your AFQT score serves as a benchmark, calculated based on a study involving 12,000 participants in 1997.
How AFQT Categories Shape Your Career
The AFQT is categorized into several percentile score ranges, known as AFQT Categories:
- 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 68 ASVAB score places you in Category II, making you a desirable candidate for most military branches and MOS.
AFQT Score and Your 68 ASVAB Score
- Your 68 ASVAB score means you’ve outperformed 68% of the participants in the 1997 study, placing you in the upper echelons.
- This score allows for enlistment in all military branches, given that the minimum required scores range from 31 to 40 depending on the branch.
68 ASVAB Score: Advantages & Disadvantages
When you get a 68 ASVAB score, it’s natural to wonder what that means for your future military career. As with anything, there are both advantages and disadvantages to consider.
The Upside of Scoring 68 on the ASVAB
Getting a score of 68 on the ASVAB comes with several key benefits:
- Eligibility for All Branches: A 68 ASVAB score makes you eligible for all U.S. military branches, meaning you can choose the path that’s right for you.
- Wide Range of MOS: You have the opportunity to access a broad variety of Military Occupational Specialties (MOS).
- Potential Bonuses and Educational Benefits: Scoring higher generally correlates with better enlistment bonuses and educational incentives.
The Downside of Scoring 68 on the ASVAB
However, there are also limitations to be aware of:
- Highly Specialized Roles May Be Out of Reach: Although a 68 is a strong score, some highly specialized jobs may require higher scores or particular line scores from the various ASVAB sub-tests.
- Competition: Since a 68 is an above-average score, it’s possible that you could face stiffer competition from other high-scoring candidates for the same roles.
What This Means for You
- Your score is versatile, but it’s essential to understand what you aim to achieve in your military career to make the most of it.
- If you have a specific, highly specialized role in mind, you may need to retake the ASVAB to aim for an even higher score.
Tips for Achieving a 68 ASVAB Score
So, you’ve set your sights on attaining a score—an ambitious and achievable goal. However, aiming for a particular score requires strategic planning and effective study habits. Here are some tips to help you reach that coveted 68 ASVAB score.
Study Resources: Invest in Quality Material
One of the first steps is to get your hands on quality study material. Look for:
- Official ASVAB Study Guides: These are tried and true resources that offer a comprehensive look at the test.
- Online Courses and Apps: Technology has made it easier to study on the go.
Consistent Study Schedule: Regularity is Key
Consistency can make or break your study plan. Here’s how to keep yourself on track:
- Set a Timetable: Allocate specific time slots to each section of the ASVAB.
- Regular Breaks: Incorporate short breaks for relaxation and mental recovery.
Mock Tests: The More, The Better
- Full-Length Simulations: Mock tests offer you an understanding of what to expect, making you more comfortable on the actual test day.
- Time Yourself: Knowing how long it takes to answer questions can help you manage your time better during the actual test.
Areas to Focus On
- Arithmetic Reasoning (AR) and Math Knowledge (MK): These are critical areas as they contribute directly to your AFQT score.
- Word Knowledge (WK) and Paragraph Comprehension (PC): These are also essential for boosting your overall score.
Mindset and Mental Preparation
- Confidence: Believe in your ability to score high.
- Healthy Lifestyle: Adequate sleep and a balanced diet can help you focus better.
Common Questions or Misconceptions about the ASVAB
Understanding the ASVAB involves sifting through a lot of information, and it’s easy to get caught up in misconceptions or have lingering questions. Especially when aiming for a score, it’s crucial to separate fact from fiction.
Is the ASVAB Only About Military Enlistment?
- Misconception: Many think the ASVAB is only for those considering military service.
- Truth: The ASVAB also offers career exploration options for civilians. The ASVAB Career Exploration Program can be beneficial for non-military career planning as well.
What Does My AFQT Score Mean?
- Common Question: People often ask, “What does a 68 AFQT score specifically mean for me?”
- Answer: A 68 AFQT score means you scored higher than 68% of the test-takers in the 1997 study, making you eligible for most MOS and all branches of the military.
Do I Need to Excel in Every Subject to Score 68?
- Misconception: You have to score equally high in every ASVAB subtest to get a high AFQT score.
- Truth: The AFQT score is a composite of just four out of the ten ASVAB subtests—Math Knowledge (MK), Arithmetic Reasoning (AR), Word Knowledge (WK), and Paragraph Comprehension (PC).
Can I Retake the ASVAB to Improve My Score?
- Common Question: “Can I retake the ASVAB to get a better score?”
- Answer: Yes, you can retake the ASVAB, but there are waiting periods, and your latest scores will be the ones considered for enlistment.
Can I Choose My MOS?
- Common Question: “If I get a 68 ASVAB score, can I choose my MOS?”
- Answer: While a score of 68 increases your chances of getting the MOS you want, it’s not a guarantee. Availability and other qualifications also come into play.
ASVAB Scores 1 to 99
Conclusion and Next Steps For 68 on ASVAB
Congratulations on scoring a 68 on the ASVAB—a score that opens doors to a myriad of opportunities in various military branches. As you’ve learned, a 68 ASVAB score is a strong achievement, but it’s only part of the bigger picture.
What to Do Next?
Having reached this milestone, you may be asking, “What are the next steps?” Here are some recommendations:
- Research Specific MOS Options: Explore the range of Military Occupational Specialties (MOS) available to you with a 68 ASVAB score.
- Consult with a Recruiter: Conversations with military recruiters can provide you with personalized advice and insights.
- Consider Future Career Goals: Think about your long-term military or civilian career aims. Is your current ASVAB score sufficient to meet those objectives?
Consider Retaking the ASVAB
- Weigh the Pros and Cons: If you’re aiming for a highly specialized role that may require a higher score, you could consider retaking the test.
- Preparation is Key: If you decide to retake, make sure to re-engage with your study materials and perhaps take additional prep courses.
Final Thoughts: Making the Most of Your 68 ASVAB Score
- Your score is not just a numerical value; it’s a ticket to various opportunities and should be leveraged wisely.
- Use the resources available to you—be it study materials, career counselors, or military advisors—to make an informed choice.
Conclusion: Your Future Awaits
A 68 ASVAB score sets you on a promising path, but remember, it’s not the destination. It’s a strong foundation upon which you can build a fulfilling military career. Utilize the tips, dispel the misconceptions, and continue to educate yourself as you progress on your journey. With focused effort and informed decisions, your 68 ASVAB score can be the springboard to your future success.