Considering the Military: Impact of ASVAB Scores on Women

Hey all, I'm a rising junior and seriously considering serving in the military once I'm out of high school. I know ASVAB scores are important, but as a woman, do the score requirements or expectations for each branch differ from men? If so, what should I be aiming for?

The ASVAB (Armed Services Vocational Aptitude Battery) score you'll need doesn't vary based on gender. Women and men are held to the same standards on this test. The ASVAB is designed to assess your abilities in different areas, such as verbal reasoning, math knowledge, mechanics, and electronics, and it helps determine what military jobs would be the best fit for you.

Each branch of the military has their own minimum ASVAB scores to be eligible for enlistment and for specific jobs. For instance, to enlist in the Air Force, a minimum ASVAB score of 36 is required. However, it's also worth noting that most applicants who are accepted into the Air Force typically score a 50 or higher. The Army requires a minimum ASVAB score of 31, while the Navy requires at least a 35. The Marine Corps requires a score of 32 while the Coast Guard requires a score of 40. The Space Force follows the same requirements as the Air Force.

Keep in mind these are the minimum scores to enlist. If you're aiming for a specialized job or program within the military, these positions often require higher ASVAB scores. For example, a score of 88 in the mechanical maintenance section of the ASVAB is necessary for a role as a helicopter mechanic.

While preparing for the ASVAB, focus on getting as high a score as you can. Each point could open new possibilities for roles within the military. And remember, while your ASVAB score is important, it is just one aspect of your overall application and performance in the military. Other factors such as physical fitness, moral character, and leadership abilities are also crucial.