ASVAB Test Day: What to Expect at MEPS or a MET Site

Most of the stress on ASVAB test day comes from not knowing what's going to happen. Here's the day, step by step, using only what the official ASVAB program says — so you can spend your energy on the test, not on the logistics.

Before test day: the recruiter screens you

You don't book the ASVAB on your own. The official site explains that a recruiter first screens applicants and will ask about your marital status, health, education, drug use and arrest record. Answer openly and honestly — the official site stresses that point. Once the recruiter decides you're qualified for further processing, you're scheduled to test. A physical exam may also be done at that time.

The official FAQ adds that some recruiters give a short pre-screening test first to estimate how you'd do on the AFQT. If your recruiter won't schedule you, the only way to know why is to ask.

Where you'll test

• MEPS — Military Entrance Processing Stations. There are 65 across the U.S. and Puerto Rico, run jointly by the Department of Defense with military and civilian staff.
• MET sites — Military Entrance Test sites. Satellite locations for people who don't live near a MEPS, often in federal office buildings, National Guard armories or Reserve centers.

At the MEPS and most MET sites, you'll take the computer version (CAT-ASVAB). Only a handful of MET sites still give the paper-and-pencil version.

What to bring — and the two rules that send people home

1. Bring valid identification. You need it to be admitted into the testing room.
2. Don't be late. The official site is blunt: if you're late, you'll be turned away and required to reschedule.

Your recruiter may give you a ride to and from the session, but isn't allowed in the testing room.

And leave the calculator at home: calculators aren't allowed on any version of the ASVAB.

In the testing room (computer version)

• No computer experience needed. Before the first subtest, you get instructions on using the keyboard and mouse. The keyboard is modified so only the keys you need are labeled, and you can answer with either the keyboard or the mouse.
• You go at your own pace. When you finish a subtest, you move straight to the next one — no waiting for the rest of the room.
• The screen shows what's left. The time and number of questions remaining for the current subtest appear in the lower right-hand corner.
• You can't change an answer once you've moved on to the next question.
• Need something? Press the red HELP key — for example, for more scratch paper or another pencil. The subtest clock stops while you're in HELP, and time spent reading instructions doesn't count against the time limit either.
• If a computer fails, your data isn't lost; you restart on another computer at the beginning of the subtest you were on, with its timer reset.

The ten subtests come in this order: General Science, Arithmetic Reasoning, Word Knowledge, Paragraph Comprehension, Mathematics Knowledge, Electronics Information, Auto Information, Shop Information, Mechanical Comprehension, Assembling Objects.

How long it takes

• Computer version: about 2 hours on average. Each subtest has a time limit, but the official site says almost everyone finishes before it runs out.
• Paper version: 3 to 4 hours, including instructions and administrative tasks.

You may also see tryout questions — new questions being tested that don't count toward your score. On the computer version they appear in 2 to 4 subtests, and you get extra time when they do. You won't know which ones they are, so answer every question as if it counts.

Don't talk about the questions

ASVAB questions are controlled testing material. The official site warns that applicants who give or receive information about specific test questions are subject to severe penalties. After the test, talk about how it went — not about what was on it.

After the test

On the computer version, your scores are available right after the session at the MEPS or MET site. On paper, answer sheets are sent to the MEPS to be scanned, which usually takes a few days; your recruiter is notified when the scores are ready.

From there, your AFQT decides whether you can enlist, and your other scores feed the composite (line) scores for jobs. If the result isn't what you hoped, the retest rules apply: one calendar month, another month, then six. See ASVAB Retake Rules.

The night before

The official preparation tips are simple: know what to expect on test day — which you now do — get familiar with the subtests, practice with sample questions, and get plenty of rest the night before.

If you want one realistic run first, our free practice test covers the four AFQT sections with the computer version's time limits and ends with an AFQT estimate — a practice estimate, not an official score. For pacing and guessing, read Should You Guess on the ASVAB?

Quick answers

What do I need to bring to the ASVAB?

Valid identification. The official site says you need it to be admitted into the testing room.

What happens if I'm late to the ASVAB?

You'll be turned away and have to reschedule.

Can my recruiter come in with me?

Your recruiter can drive you, but isn't permitted in the testing room.

How long is the ASVAB at MEPS?

The computer version takes about 2 hours on average. The paper version takes 3 to 4 hours.

Sources

• What to Expect When You Take the ASVAB — officialasvab.com
• The CAT-ASVAB (recruiters) — officialasvab.com
• FAQs — officialasvab.com
• Preparing for the ASVAB — officialasvab.com