ASVAB General Science: what it tests and how to study
General Science is scored on the ASVAB but is not one of the four AFQT subtests. The official page describes it as testing knowledge of physical and biological sciences.
Last updated · Published by Certloom Learning · Format facts are from officialasvab.com (checked 2026-11-12). The study approach is general advice from Certloom Learning, not official guidance.
What does General Science cover?
Official description: “knowledge of physical and biological sciences” (Official ASVAB: What to Expect (checked 2026-11-12)). Expect school-level life, earth and physical science. The official site does not publish a topic list, so use a general high school science review rather than a memorized list.
AptiStep does not cover General Science. The app and this website focus on the four subjects that make up the AFQT (Arithmetic Reasoning, Mathematics Knowledge, Word Knowledge and Paragraph Comprehension). This page is an explainer from official sources, not a practice set. For official General Science examples use the Official ASVAB: Sample Questions.
How is General Science tested on the CAT-ASVAB and on paper?
On the computer version the official table lists 15 scored questions and up to 15 unscored tryout questions, with a time limit of 12 minutes without tryout questions or 25 minutes with them. On paper it has 25 questions in 11 minutes. Source: Official ASVAB: What to Expect (checked 2026-11-12).
How do I study for General Science?
Review school-level biology, chemistry basics and physics concepts, and learn the vocabulary of each. Practice with the official sample questions first, since they show the real style. Short daily reading of science summaries works better than one long session.
Why does General Science matter if it is not in the AFQT?
General Science is part of the Electronics line score used by the Air Force, as reported by Military.com (checked 2026-11-12), per that page. Check your branch for exact rules.
See ASVAB line scores and the AFQT explainer for how subtests combine.
Frequently asked questions
Is General Science part of the AFQT?
No. The AFQT uses Arithmetic Reasoning, Mathematics Knowledge, Word Knowledge and Paragraph Comprehension (official scores page).
Does AptiStep teach General Science?
No. AptiStep covers the four AFQT subjects only.