High School Military Tests

Hi everyone. I was talking with a friend the other day and the topic of military tests taken in high school came up. I'm not sure what they're referring to and didn't want to ask in case it's common knowledge. Can anyone shed some light on this for me? What is the purpose of these tests, and do you have to take it if you're interested in the military?

Yes, your friend was referring to the Armed Services Vocational Aptitude Battery (ASVAB), which is a multiple-aptitude battery that measures developed ability and helps predict future academic and occupational success in the military.

Primarily used by the Department of Defense, ASVAB tests are delivered nationwide in high schools but can also be taken at a Military Entrance Processing Station (MEPS). Schools use test results to support career guidance and exploration for students.

The ASVAB is divided into 10 subtests. These categories are General Science, Arithmetic Reasoning, Word Knowledge, Paragraph Comprehension, Mathematics Knowledge, Electronics Information, Auto & Shop Information, Mechanical Comprehension, and Assembling Objects. Scored on a percentile scale based on a nationally representative sample of youth aged 18 to 23.

Generally, the military uses ASVAB scores to determine which jobs individual recruits are qualified for, training needs, and if they are apt for military service, to begin with.

While many high school students take the test, it's certainly not a requirement if you're interested in joining the military, but it becomes necessary once you seriously consider enlisting. It's meant to ensure that potential recruits have a basic level of aptitude and comprehension and can be trained effectively in various military occupational specialties.

However, if military service isn't part of your post-high school plans, there's no obligation to take the ASVAB. It's purely a choice. Though it does offer a way to consider different career paths, particularly those related to vocational skills or technical specialties.