ASVAB (also see Military)
BRIEF SUMMARY
ASVAB stands for the Armed Services Vocational Aptitude Battery (ASVAB). The ASVAB is a timed multi-aptitude test, which is given at over 14,000 schools and Military Entrance Processing Stations (MEPS) nationwide and is developed and maintained by the Department of Defense.
(Added 9/18/23 Dr. Nathaniel Grandberry, Program Manager for the ASVAB Career Exploration Program (ASVAB-CEP) in Indiana): There are TWO ASVAB programs; Enlistment (military) and Student (career exploration). The Enlistment (Military) ASVAB is a military program, which is administered at a Military Entrance Processing Station (MEP) or at one of its satellite locations (MET site). The Student ASVAB Career Exploration Program (ASVAB-CEP), is a comprehensive career exploration program for high school students, which explore ALL occupations including the military. The ASVAB-CEP is administered in high school locations. It’s a modified test administered to 10th, 11th, and 12th grade students and 1st and 2nd year college students for career exploration, at No cost No commitment. A civilian Education Specialist manages the ASVAB-CEP, which work in partnership with high schools to offer career and occupation information to students. We provide career exploration opportunities to over 512 high schools throughout Indiana and about 20 schools in Illinois. The ASVAB is the most widely used multiple-aptitude test battery in the world. Program components are multiple aptitude test; Career Interest Inventory; Career Exploration Tool, the OCCU-Find; and Career Planning Resources. Counselors and teachers can use the ASVAB test results as a benchmark to gage students’ performance. The career exploration components give students the opportunity to explore a variety of occupations in line with their interests and skills through assessment and structured activities. In the student ASVAB program, the scores from all eight tests are critical arears, not just the AFQT score. Keep in mind, career exploration is the primary focus in the student ASVAB program. Our occupation database explores over 1000 occupation (mostly civilian related). ASVAB scores are compiled into career exploration scores that assess skills and ability for multiple occupations of interest for students. Special note: The ASVAB result sheet give students an AFQT score which may be used for military consideration. The video listed under Resources will be advisable to watch for anyone not familiar with the reason why the ASVAB is offered in high school.
KEY POINTS
- The ASVAB is scored in four critical areas — Arithmetic Reasoning, Word Knowledge, Paragraph Comprehension and Mathematics Knowledge. These scores count towards your Armed Forces Qualifying Test (AFQT) score. The AFQT score determines whether you’re qualified to enlist in the U.S. military.
- Your scores in the other areas of the ASVAB will determine how qualified you are for certain military occupational specialties and Enlistment Bonuses. A high score will improve your chances of getting the specialty/job and signing bonus you want.
- Scoring high on the ASVAB will require study and concentration.
RESOURCES
SHARED WISDOM
- (Added 9/18/23 IDOE):Our team has received multiple questions regarding the use of accommodations with the ASVAB that is being given in the school and the recent legislative changes. We have confirmed with our Legal team that an ASVAB taken with accommodations in the school setting can be used for Graduation Pathways purposes. As a reminder, guidance regarding the requirements for the use of ASVAB to fulfill graduation pathways requirements is outlined in this memo. If you have additional questions, please contact DOEGradpathways@doe.in.gov.
- (IDOE, June 15, 2023): The IDOE’s legislative updates indicate the following: Utilizing the ASVAB to meet graduation pathway requirements (HEA 1635). HEA 1635 outlines additional parameters for students utilizing the ASVAB to meet graduation pathway requirements. This includes completing the Military Enlistment Intent Form. Please see this memo for additional information.
- (IDOE, March 2023): Career Readiness and Literacy with Career and Technical Education (CTE) ASVAB Career Exploration Program February Newsletter provides resources and information for educators, counselors, parents, and students. Educators will find definitions, resources, funding, and information about CTE’s relationship to the labor market, student outcomes, and achievement. Articles include High-Paying Careers Without a College Degree, Resource Roundup: Explore Postsecondary Options, and The Impact of High School Counselors. Contact asvabcep@gmail.com with any questions.
- (CounselorTalk, March 2023):Career Readiness and Literacy with Career and Technical Education (CTE): ASVAB Career Exploration Program February Newsletter provides resources and information for educators, counselors, parents, and students. Educators will find definitions, resources, funding, and information about CTE’s relationship to the labor market, student outcomes, and achievement. Articles include High-Paying Careers Without a College Degree, Resource Roundup: Explore Postsecondary Options, and The Impact of High School Counselors. Contact asvabcep@gmail.com with any questions.
- Q: Does anyone have good ASVAB practice sites they use for their students? (Counselortalk 8/8/22)
- (For Indiana) ASVAB testing coordinator information:
- Dr. Nathaniel Grandberry
- ASVAB-CEP Program Manager
- Indianapolis MEPS
- nathaniel.grandberry.civ@army.mil
- Office: (463) 203-4194
- Cell: (224) 480-7445
- Dr. Nathaniel Grandberry
CONTENT FEEDBACK
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