How Many Questions Are on the ASVAB? Detailed Breakdown

Ever sat down for a real test and suddenly wondered, How many questions are on the ASVAB? Knowing the question count and format beforehand can make all the difference. As Benjamin Franklin wisely said, “By failing to prepare, you are preparing to fail.” In this comprehensive guide, we’ll walk you through the total number of questions on the ASVAB, including a detailed section-by-section breakdown for both test formats, so you can stay calm, confident, and ready to succeed. No surprises on test day,  just a clear path to success.

How many questions are on the ASVAB test?

How many questions are on the ASVAB test?

The number of questions on the ASVAB test depends on the testing format you take. Currently, there are two main versions of the ASVAB:

• P&P-ASVAB: A traditional paper-based format that consists of 225 fixed questions.
• CAT-ASVAB: A computer-based adaptive version that includes 135 questions, with difficulty adjusting based on your responses.

In addition to the two main formats mentioned above, there is also the PiCAT. You can access PiCAT vs ASVAB for more details.

How many questions are on the P&P ASVAB?

The Paper-and-Pencil ASVAB (P&P-ASVAB) features 225 multiple-choice questions to be completed within 149 minutes. Unlike the computerized version, this traditional format follows a fixed structure, meaning every test-taker receives the same set of questions in the same order.

The P&P-ASVAB includes 9 distinct subtests. Each subtest has a specific number of questions and a time limit.

This format is generally available only at select Military Entrance Test (MET) sites and is typically administered in group settings. After check-in and being seated, be sure to listen carefully and follow all instructions given by the test administrator.

How many questions are on the CAT-ASVAB?

The CAT-ASVAB has about 135 multiple-choice questions and takes around 198 minutes to finish. This version is taken on a computer and uses an adaptive format, which means the questions change in difficulty depending on your previous answers. Correct answers lead to more difficult questions, while incorrect ones lead to easier questions.

CAT-ASVAB

The number of questions and time limits for each subtest may vary if tryout questions are included. These unscored items are used for research and are randomly placed in 2 to 4 subtests. Extra time is given when tryout questions are present.

The CAT-ASVAB includes 10 topics. One difference in this version is that the Auto & Shop Information section is split into two parts:

• Auto Information (AI)
• Shop Information (SI)

Examinees must take the proctored CAT-ASVAB at a Military Entrance Processing Station (MEPS) or a Mobile Examination Test (MET) site. Each test-taker proceeds at their own pace, allowing them to move on to the next subtest as soon as they finish the current one; there’s no need to wait for others.

FAQs

1. How many questions can you miss on the ASVAB?

ASVAB scores are not based solely on the number of correct answers. Instead, your raw scores are converted into standardized scores, which are then used to calculate two key results:

• AFQT score: used to determine if you’re eligible to enlist in the military.
• Line scores: used to determine what military jobs (MOS/AFSC/Rating) you qualify for.

Therefore, there’s no fixed number of correct answers required to pass.

2. Can you skip questions on the ASVAB?

• CAT-ASVAB (computer-based): You cannot skip or go back to previous questions; you must answer each one to move forward. The difficulty adjusts based on your answers, so work quickly and carefully.
• P&P-ASVAB (paper-based): You can skip questions, but you need to manage your time and fill in the answer sheet carefully to avoid misalignment. All unanswered questions are considered incorrect.

Final thoughts

How Many Questions Are on the ASVAB? 135 or 225 questions? Doesn’t matter, you’re not here to count, you’re here to conquer. Study smart, stay consistent, and let the numbers take care of themselves. Every question is a step closer to your military goals. Start your journey now with our ASVAB practice test.