CAT-ASVAB (Computer Adaptive Test)
The CAT-ASVAB is the computer-adaptive version of the Armed Services Vocational Aptitude Battery. The proctored enlistment form has 135 scored questions across 10 subtests, plus unscored tryout items.
Exam Tip
Watch the subtest timer. Work through each item and avoid a string of random guesses near the end.
How CAT-ASVAB works
The computer updates its estimate of your ability using each scored response and selects questions based on that estimate. Once you submit an answer, you cannot return to it.
| Subtest | Scored questions | Minutes without tryouts |
|---|---|---|
| General Science (GS) | 15 | 12 |
| Arithmetic Reasoning (AR) | 15 | 55 |
| Word Knowledge (WK) | 15 | 9 |
| Paragraph Comprehension (PC) | 10 | 27 |
| Mathematics Knowledge (MK) | 15 | 31 |
| Electronics Information (EI) | 15 | 10 |
| Auto Information (AI) | 10 | 7 |
| Shop Information (SI) | 10 | 6 |
| Mechanical Comprehension (MC) | 15 | 22 |
| Assembling Objects (AO) | 15 | 18 |
The proctored CAT runs at a MEPS or MET site and averages about two hours. It adds 15 tryout questions and extra time in each of 2 to 4 subtests. Auto and Shop are administered separately and reported as a combined AS score. Paper enlistment testing uses fixed forms and allows review within the current subtest.
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Study guide on MometrixRelated Terms
Armed Services Vocational Aptitude Battery (ASVAB)
The ASVAB is a multiple-aptitude test administered by the U.S. Department of Defense to determine qualification for military enlistment and job placement across all branches. The computer-adaptive enlistment form has 10 subtests in verbal, math, science and technical, and spatial domains.
MEPS (Military Entrance Processing Station)
A Military Entrance Processing Station (MEPS) is a USMEPCOM facility for enlistment testing, medical screening and processing.
PiCAT (Pending Internet Computerized Adaptive Test)
PiCAT is the unproctored, online version of the CAT-ASVAB for first-time ASVAB examinees. Successful proctored verification at MEPS or a MET site makes the PiCAT scores the official ASVAB scores of record.
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