Military Occupational Specialty (MOS)
A Military Occupational Specialty (MOS) is the Army and Marine Corps system for classifying enlisted jobs. Each MOS is identified by a numeric code and requires specific ASVAB line scores for qualification.
Exam Tip
MOS is the Army/Marines job classification system. Each MOS requires specific ASVAB line scores. Higher scores = more job options. Know the difference: MOS (Army/Marines), AFSC (Air Force), Rating (Navy).
What is a Military Occupational Specialty?
A Military Occupational Specialty (MOS) is the classification system used by the U.S. Army and Marine Corps to identify specific enlisted job specialties. Each MOS has specific ASVAB line score requirements that determine eligibility.
MOS Structure (Army)
| Component | Meaning | Example (11B) |
|---|---|---|
| First 2 digits | Career Management Field | 11 = Infantry |
| Letter | Specific specialty | B = Infantryman |
Popular Army MOS and ASVAB Requirements
| MOS | Title | Key Line Score |
|---|---|---|
| 11B | Infantryman | CO: 87 |
| 25B | IT Specialist | GT: 95, EL: 95 |
| 68W | Combat Medic | ST: 101, GT: 107 |
| 35F | Intel Analyst | ST: 101 |
| 88M | Motor Transport Operator | OF: 85 |
| 42A | Human Resources | CL: 90 |
| 12B | Combat Engineer | CO: 87 |
MOS vs. Other Branch Job Systems
| Branch | System | Example |
|---|---|---|
| Army | MOS | 11B - Infantryman |
| Marines | MOS | 0311 - Rifleman |
| Navy | Rating | BM - Boatswain's Mate |
| Air Force | AFSC | 1A8X1 - Airborne ISR |
| Coast Guard | Rating | ME - Maritime Enforcement |
How MOS Assignment Works
- Take the ASVAB and receive line scores
- Meet with a career counselor at MEPS
- Review available MOS options based on your scores
- Consider factors: availability, enlistment bonuses, duty stations
- Select MOS and sign enlistment contract
Important Notes
- Higher ASVAB scores = more MOS options available
- Some MOS require additional aptitude tests or security clearances
- Reclassification to a different MOS is possible during service
- MOS determines initial training school (AIT) location and duration
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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.
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.
Air Force Specialty Code (AFSC)
An Air Force Specialty Code (AFSC) is a system of alphanumeric codes used by the U.S. Air Force and Space Force to identify specific job specialties. ASVAB line scores determine which AFSCs a recruit qualifies for.
MEPS (Military Entrance Processing Station)
MEPS (Military Entrance Processing Station) is a Department of Defense facility where military applicants complete the CAT-ASVAB, undergo medical examinations, and take the oath of enlistment. There are 65 MEPS locations across the United States.
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