The ASVAB (Armed Services Vocational Aptitude Battery) is a timed multi-aptitude test, which is administered at over 14,000 schools and Military Entrance Processing Stations (MEPS) nationwide. The test is developed and maintained by the Department of Defense. The ASVAB tests students on four critical subject areas: Arithmetic Reasoning, Word Knowledge, Paragraph Comprehension, and Mathematics Knowledge. These scores count towards your Armed Forces Qualifying Test (AFQT) score. The AFQT scores determine whether you’re qualified to join the military, which branch of the military is best for you, and which specific military jobs you are best suited for.
How to Apply the ASVAB Test Results
The other aspects of the ASVAB test your qualifications for specific careers or job positions. This test is more than a military entrance exam; it is an aptitude test that serves students in many areas.
We spoke to the counselor at Pell City High School, Amy Smith, and asked her to share her views on the ASVAB test and how it applies to her students. She explained, “The ASVAB is an excellent predictor of future ACT scores, it is especially helpful for those students that may have not been able to take the ACT before. When used for students at the beginning of their junior year, it gives both the students and the teachers a good idea of what they should score when they take the State-administered ACT in the spring.”
The Triple E’s
Smith also shared an interesting take on the aptitude test. At Pell City High School, there is a program set in a place called the “Triple E” program. This program consists of three options the school encourages for seniors:
- Enroll
- Enlist
- Employ
The ASVAB assessment helps to satisfy these three options:
- The ASVAB score translates to a predicted ACT score which can be determined through a conversion chart to help students with college enrollment decisions.
- The test provides a way for students to join the military.
- The test provides a career inventory to help students figure out what they want to pursue in terms of employment.
Learn more about the ASVAB by visiting www.asvabprogram.com.
P.S. Taking ASVAB practice tests is a great way to prep for the official assessment!
