ASVAB line scores explained
Line scores, also called composite or category scores, combine several ASVAB subtests to decide which military jobs you qualify for. The AFQT decides whether you can enlist; line scores decide where you can go.
Last updated · Published by Certloom Learning · Built from the official ASVAB scores and Military Jobs pages and GoArmy.com, checked 2026-11-14. Each service defines its own composites.
What are ASVAB line scores?
The official page says enlistment applicants get an AFQT score and Service composite scores used for job assignment (Official ASVAB applicant FAQ (checked 2026-11-12)). The Army calls them category scores or line scores, and says they “determine job opportunities across different career categories” (GoArmy.com: ASVAB test and preparation).
What are the Air Force M, G, A and E line scores?
The official ASVAB site lists the Air Force composites (Official ASVAB: Military Jobs (service composites) (checked 2026-11-12), checked 2026-11-14):
| Line score | Official formula |
|---|---|
| Mechanical (M) | AR + 2VE + MC + AS |
| Administrative (A) | VE + MK |
| General (G) | VE + AR |
| Electronics (E) | AR + MK + EI + GS |
VE (Verbal Expression) comes from Word Knowledge and Paragraph Comprehension. For the details see Air Force MAGE scores, and for the Army's General Technical score see the GT score guide.
Which subtests should I study for line scores?
The four AFQT subtests appear in almost every composite, so they are the best starting point. Then add the technical subtests your target job lists: see Electronics, Mechanical Comprehension, Auto and Shop and General Science.
Frequently asked questions
Do all branches use the same line scores?
No. Each service defines its own composites and cutoffs.
Where can I find the cutoff for a specific job?
Ask a recruiter, or use the branch’s job pages. This site does not list job cutoffs.