The 9 ASVAB Subtests Explained
What each ASVAB subtest covers, how many questions and minutes you get on the computer test, and which ones count for the AFQT.
The subtests at a glance
These are the numbers for the computer version (CAT-ASVAB), which most people take at MEPS:
| Subtest | Questions | Minutes | Counts for AFQT? |
|---|---|---|---|
| General Science (GS) | 15 | 10 | no |
| Arithmetic Reasoning (AR) | 15 | 55 | yes |
| Word Knowledge (WK) | 15 | 9 | yes |
| Paragraph Comprehension (PC) | 10 | 27 | yes |
| Mathematics Knowledge (MK) | 15 | 31 | yes |
| Electronics Information (EI) | 15 | 10 | no |
| Auto & Shop Information (AS) | 20 | 13 | no |
| Mechanical Comprehension (MC) | 15 | 22 | no |
| Assembling Objects (AO) | 15 | 18 | no |
The paper version (used at some test sites and in high schools) is longer and has more questions per subtest.
What each one covers
- General Science: biology, the human body, earth and space, chemistry and physics basics.
- Arithmetic Reasoning: word problems — pay, discounts, rates, ratios, averages.
- Word Knowledge: pick the word closest in meaning, alone or in a sentence.
- Paragraph Comprehension: main idea, details, word meaning and conclusions from short passages.
- Mathematics Knowledge: fractions, exponents, algebra and geometry.
- Electronics Information: current, voltage, circuits, components and safety.
- Auto & Shop Information: engines, car systems, tools and fasteners.
- Mechanical Comprehension: levers, pulleys, gears, ramps and fluids.
- Assembling Objects: which shape the pieces make, and how shapes connect.
Why the non-AFQT subtests still matter
Each branch combines subtests into line scores (also called composite scores) to decide which jobs you qualify for. For example, mechanical and electronics jobs look at MC, EI and AS. A great AFQT gets you in; good line scores open the jobs you want.
Where to start
Start with the four AFQT subtests, then study the ones that match the jobs you want. Read what a good AFQT score is and try our free practice questions.