Can You Retake the ASVAB?
Yes — there is no limit on how many times you can take the ASVAB. However, there are mandatory wait periods between attempts, and there are rules about which score counts. Understanding these rules before you retest can prevent surprises at MEPS.
ASVAB Retake Wait Periods
The rules are the same across all branches:
- First retest: You must wait at least 1 calendar month after your initial test
- Second retest: You must wait at least 1 additional calendar month after the first retest
- All subsequent retests: You must wait at least 6 months between each attempt
These wait periods are enforced by MEPS (Military Entrance Processing Station). Your recruiter cannot waive them.
Which Score Counts — Initial or Retest?
This is the part most applicants get wrong. The rules depend on the branch:
- Generally, the most recent valid ASVAB score is used — not the highest score.
- There is an important exception: if a recruiter suspects a "doctored" score (a suspicious jump), they may require additional testing or investigation.
- Some branches retain all scores in your record. A dramatic increase (e.g., 30+ AFQT points in one sitting) may trigger additional verification.
The practical takeaway: study seriously before each attempt. Don't plan to take it multiple times as a "try first, study later" strategy — your recruiter will see all of your scores.
How Much Can Your Score Improve?
Realistically:
- Without studying: Scores typically vary only 5–10 points on retakes due to test-day variation. Retaking without studying rarely produces meaningful gains.
- With 4 weeks of focused study: Most people gain 10–15 AFQT points. Those starting from a low baseline sometimes gain 20+.
- With 8 weeks of dedicated prep: Gains of 15–25 points are realistic for test-takers with foundational gaps in math or verbal skills.
The biggest gains always come from addressing your specific weak sections — not general review.
How to Identify What to Study
After your first ASVAB attempt, your score printout shows your raw score on every subtest. Use this to build a targeted study plan:
- Identify your AFQT gap. If you need AFQT 50 and scored 38, you need to raise AR+WK+PC+MK by roughly 12 points.
- Find the highest-leverage section. Because WK and PC are doubled in the AFQT formula, every point in those sections is worth twice as much. Start there if you're below average in verbal.
- Check your line score gaps. If you need GT 100 and scored GT 93, find out which subtest (AR or VE) is holding you back. A few weeks drilling that subtest specifically can close the gap.
Use the Military Job Explorer to look up the exact scores your target job requires, then work backwards.
Best Study Strategy for a Retest
The mistake most re-testers make is studying the same way they did before (or not studying at all). Instead:
- Take a new baseline practice test. Don't rely on memory of what you struggled with months ago. Take a fresh practice test and compare against your real ASVAB score report.
- Study the sections, not just the AFQT. Even if your AFQT is enough to enlist, a weak line score may be blocking the specific job you want.
- Use the full 1-month wait time. Don't rush back to MEPS after 31 days if you haven't actually studied. Retesting without preparation wastes an attempt and your 6-month window.
- Work on foundational skills, not just practice questions. If you're consistently missing math problems, the solution is understanding the underlying math — not just doing more practice tests.
Special Cases
Can you retake the ASVAB if you're already enlisted? Yes. Enlisted personnel can retake the ASVAB to qualify for a different MOS or rating. This is sometimes called a "REAP" (Retest for Enlistment Aptitude) or institutional retest, and the same wait periods apply.
What about the high school ASVAB? If you took the ASVAB through your high school (the Student Testing Program version), those scores can sometimes be used for enlistment if they're less than 2 years old. Check with your recruiter.
ASVAB scores expire. All ASVAB scores expire after 2 years. If you tested more than 2 years ago, you'll need to retest regardless of your score.
Your 1-Month Plan Before a Retest
With one month between attempts, here's how to make the most of it:
- Week 1: Take a full practice test. Identify your 2–3 weakest sections. Study the fundamentals for those sections only.
- Week 2: Drill the weak sections daily (20–30 minutes). Focus on understanding, not memorizing answers.
- Week 3: Mix weak sections with a full practice test mid-week. Check if your estimated scores moved.
- Week 4: Take two more full practice tests under timed conditions. Review every wrong answer. Rest the day before your MEPS appointment.
Start with a full practice test here to set your new baseline.