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.
Exam Tip
Line scores = composite scores from ASVAB subtests for job qualification. AFQT = enlistment eligibility. Each branch has different formulas. Core subtests like AR and VE impact multiple composites.
What are Line Scores?
Line scores (also called composite scores) are calculated from combinations of ASVAB subtest standard scores. While the AFQT determines if you can enlist, line scores determine which specific jobs you qualify for.
How Line Scores Work
| Concept | Explanation |
|---|---|
| Source | Calculated from ASVAB subtest standard scores |
| Purpose | Qualify for specific military jobs |
| Separate from AFQT | AFQT = enlistment; Line scores = job placement |
| Branch-specific | Each branch has its own composite formulas |
| Multiple composites | Most branches use 8-10 different composites |
Army Line Scores
| Line Score | 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 Qualifying Areas
| Area | Key Subtests |
|---|---|
| M (Mechanical) | MC, GS, Automotive/Shop |
| A (Administrative) | VE, MK |
| G (General) | VE, AR |
| E (Electronics) | AR, MK, EI, GS |
Important Notes
- You receive ALL line scores from one ASVAB sitting
- Higher scores in core subtests (AR, VE, MK) boost multiple line scores
- Recruiters match your line scores to available jobs
- Some jobs require high scores in multiple composites
- Line scores can be improved by retaking the ASVAB
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Related 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. 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.
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.
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