Students are preparing for The Armed Services Vocational Aptitude Battery, also known as the ASVAB, on Oct 16. The ASVAB is a comprehensive test used to assess qualifications throughout the military through multiple choice questions. 

The ASVAB tests students’ knowledge of mathematics, word knowledge, reading comprehension, mechanical comprehension, electronic information, general science, along with auto and shop information. Career counselors use the ASVAB to learn students’ strengths and interests so they can be placed in appropriate careers. 

“For example, a high score in technical sections may indicate a strength in engineering, mechanics or IT,” Amy Oury, counselor and Bryant’s ASVAB test prompter, said.

Around 20% of people who take the ASVAB actually enter the military as the ASVAB is often used by students to understand where they can specialize in the work force. 

“ASVAB is more than just a military recruitment tool – it can serve as a valuable resource for students to better understand their abilities, career potential and educational pathways,” Oury said.

Bryant has 96 students taking the ASVAB this year. Most are from the JROTC program, but students from ages 18-23, including home-schooled students within the district, will be taking the test. 

“I’m using the test to find my specialty, so I have a direction in work,” junior Isabella Flores, a JROTC logistics staff member, said.

While the ASVAB can provide opportunities for students not planning to join the armed forces, it is an important step for everybody who is. 

“I’m taking the ASVAB as it’s the next step in my recruitment process as I’m planning to join the Air Force,” junior Brodie Phillips, Cadet Master Sergeant for logistics in the JROTC, said.

The grading system for the ASVAB is broken up into six categories; l, ll, lllA, lllB, lV, and V. The categories are measured in how trainable they are in the military; l and ll tend to be above average in trainability, lll are usually average, lV are below average, and V are markedly below average.

This system was created in 1968 by the US Department of Defense after a study sponsored by the National Institute of Education and the Department of the Navy indicated a strong relationship between education credentials and successful completion of the first term of military service.

“In short, the ASVAB is more than just a military recruitment tool—it can serve as a valuable resource for students to better understand their abilities, career potential, and educational pathways,” Oury said.