National Guard ASVAB Score: Minimum & Job Opportunities

Your future in the National Guard starts with a single number: your National Guard ASVAB score. This score can open doors or close them. Whether you dream of advanced tech roles or just want to qualify, understanding how your score is calculated and what the minimum requirement is could be the key to unlocking your ideal career in the Guard. Let’s break it all down so you can take control of your path.

How National Guard ASVAB score calculated?

How National Guard ASVAB score calculated?

The National Guard ASVAB score isn’t just one number; it’s a composite of multiple subtests designed to measure your strengths in various areas. Here’s how it works:

ASVAB subtests breakdown

The ASVAB consists of nine subtests that cover a wide range of skills, including:

• General Science (GS)
• Arithmetic Reasoning (AR)
• Word Knowledge (WK)
• Paragraph Comprehension (PC)
• Mathematics Knowledge (MK)
• Electronic Information (EI)
• Auto & Shop Information (AS)
• Mechanical Comprehension (MC)
• Assembling Objects (AO)

Each ASVAB subtest score is combined in specific ways to calculate composite (line) scores, which are used by different military branches, including the National Guard, to determine your eligibility for specific job roles (MOS).

In addition, four of these subtests are also used to calculate your AFQT score, which determines your basic eligibility to enlist. 

AFQT score explained

Your Armed Forces Qualification Test (AFQT) score is the most critical figure for National Guard enlistment. It’s calculated using just four out of the nine subtests mentioned above:

• Arithmetic Reasoning (AR)
• Word Knowledge (WK)
• Paragraph Comprehension (PC) 
• Mathematics Knowledge (MK)

First, the Word Knowledge and Paragraph Comprehension scores are combined into a Verbal Expression (VE) score. Then, the AFQT formula is:

AFQT = AR + MK + (2 × VE)

The AFQT score is expressed as a percentile ranging from 1 to 99, which tells you how you performed compared to a nationally representative group of test takers. For example, an AFQT score of 70 means you scored better than 70% of the reference group. This score determines your basic eligibility to enlist in the National Guard.

Line scores (composite scores) for the National Guard

Beyond the AFQT, the National Guard uses one out of 10 line scores (composite scores), which combine specific subtest scores tailored to qualify candidates for particular jobs.

Each military occupational specialty (MOS) in the National Guard requires minimum composite scores in certain areas. Your ability to qualify for your desired role depends on meeting these composite score thresholds.

Minimum ASVAB score to join the National Guard

To qualify for enlistment in the Army National Guard, you must achieve a minimum score on the AFQT (Armed Forces Qualification Test), a key portion of the ASVAB that determines basic eligibility. The required AFQT score depends on your educational background:

• If you have a high school diploma, you need a minimum AFQT score of 31 to qualify for the National Guard.
• If you hold a GED (General Educational Development) certificate, you must score at least 50 on the AFQT to be eligible.

Note: GED holders are often required to have at least 15 college credits to be considered for enlistment. This additional requirement helps demonstrate academic readiness and can improve a candidate’s chances of being accepted into the National Guard.

ASVAB score for National Guard jobs

ASVAB score for National Guard jobs

The ASVAB score you need to join the National Guard varies depending on the specific job or Military Occupational Specialty (MOS) you’re aiming for. Each job has unique skill requirements, so the National Guard uses line scores, which combine results from relevant ASVAB subtests to determine your qualification.

To qualify for a specific National Guard job, you must meet or exceed the minimum composite score set for that MOS. Higher scores not only open up more job opportunities but may also increase eligibility for bonuses and advanced training programs.

FAQs

1. What’s a good National Guard ASVAB score?

A “good” ASVAB score depends on the job (Military Occupational Specialty – MOS) you’re aiming for. While the minimum AFQT score to enlist with a high school diploma is 31, competitive scores for specialized or technical roles typically fall between 50–70 or higher. Jobs in intelligence, cybersecurity, or aviation often require strong composite scores in specific subtest combinations.

2. How to get a good National Guard ASVAB score?

To achieve a strong score:

• Study early using the ASVAB study guides.
• Focus on key subjects like Arithmetic Reasoning, Word Knowledge, Mathematics Knowledge, and Paragraph Comprehension.
• Understand composite scores so you can target the subtests relevant to your desired MOS.
• Use free online resources or perform National Guard ASVAB practice tests, especially if you’re aiming for high-demand technical roles.

Final thoughts

Understanding your National Guard ASVAB score is essential for unlocking the best opportunities in the Guard. Each job has specific score requirements, so aim to score as high as possible to widen your options. Consistent study and preparation can make all the difference. Don’t wait, check your scores, explore available roles, and begin your path toward serving in the National Guard now!