Composite Scores (ASVAB)
Composite scores (also called line scores) are combined scores from specific ASVAB subtest groupings that determine qualification for particular military jobs. Each branch uses different composite score formulas.
Exam Tip
Composite scores combine specific subtests for job qualification. Different from AFQT (which is for enlistment). Each branch has its own composites. Improving core subtests like AR helps multiple composites.
What are Composite Scores?
Composite scores are calculated by combining raw scores from specific ASVAB subtests. Each military branch uses its own set of composite score formulas to determine which jobs (MOS, AFSC, Rating) a recruit qualifies for.
Army Composite Scores (Line Scores)
| Composite | Name | Formula |
|---|---|---|
| GT | General Technical | VE + AR |
| CL | Clerical | VE + AR + MK |
| CO | Combat | AR + CS + AS + MC |
| EL | Electronics | GS + AR + MK + EI |
| FA | Field Artillery | AR + CS + MK + MC |
| GM | General Maintenance | GS + AS + MK + EI |
| MM | Mechanical Maintenance | AS + MC + EI |
| OF | Operators/Food | VE + AS + MC |
| SC | Skilled Technical | VE + GS + MC + MK |
| ST | Surveillance/Communications | VE + AR + AS + MC |
Air Force Composite Scores
| Composite | Name | Key Subtests |
|---|---|---|
| M | Mechanical | MC, GS, AS |
| A | Administrative | VE, MK |
| G | General | VE, AR |
| E | Electronics | AR, MK, EI, GS |
Navy and Marine Corps
The Navy and Marines use their own composite formulas combining various ASVAB subtests for their respective job classification systems (Ratings and MOS).
Key Points
- Composite scores are NOT the same as the AFQT
- Different jobs require different composite minimums
- You cannot "study for" a specific composite without improving the underlying subtests
- Higher composite scores open up more job options
- Some composites share subtests (improving AR helps multiple composites)
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Related Terms
Line Scores (ASVAB)
Line scores are composite scores derived from specific combinations of ASVAB subtest results. Each military branch uses different line score formulas to determine which jobs a recruit qualifies for, separate from the AFQT enlistment score.
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. It consists of 10 subtests covering verbal, math, science, and technical domains.
Armed Forces Qualification Test (AFQT)
The AFQT is the most important ASVAB score, calculated from four subtests using the formula AFQT = 2VE + AR + MK. It is reported as a percentile (1-99) and determines eligibility for military enlistment across all branches.
GT Score (General Technical)
The GT (General Technical) score is one of the most important ASVAB composite scores, calculated by combining Verbal Expression (VE) and Arithmetic Reasoning (AR). Many desirable military jobs require a minimum GT score of 100-110 or higher.
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