ASVAB test day? What to expect and how to prepare!

The most frequently asked questions we get from our customers is, “What can I expect to experience on test day?” 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. Once you enter a MEPS station, you will see that it is staffed with military and civilian professionals. There are 65 MEPS locations across the U.S. and Puerto Rico.

If you do not live near a MEPS, the ASVAB can be administered at a satellite location called a Military Entrance Test (MET) site. MET sites are often located in Federal government office buildings, National Guard armories or Reserve centers.

You’ll need to bring valid identification to be admitted into the ASVAB testing room. If you are late then you will not be allowed to take the exam and will have to reschedule your exam for a later date. Your recruiter may give you a ride to and from the session, but that is not a requirement of the recruiter. You can also expect to go alone into the testing room, as your recruiter is not permitted there.

The ASVAB is administered by computer at MEPS, but a paper-and-pencil version is given at most MET sites. Testing procedures will vary depending on whether you take the computer or paper-and-pencil version of the test.

You are not allowed to bring anything into the testing room with you, so leave all calculators, water bottles, pens, pencils, etc. at home or in the car outside of the testing center.

If you take your ASVAB at a MEPS location, you can expect to go through other tests and examinations to ensure that you meet the standards required to serve in the United States Armed Forces. These tests typically take place the day after you take your ASVAB, and the tests include vision, hearing, blood, and blood pressure tests, a pregnancy test (for women), an examination by a doctor, a height and weight check, urinalysis, a breathalyzer test and a psychological/background examination.

If you are deemed qualified for military service, you will also meet with a service counselor. This is your chance to negotiate and sign enlistment contracts, and swear or affirm an entrance oath. You do not have to sign enlistment contracts the same day you are at MEPS. Your ASVAB scores and other physical/mental tests are good for up to 6 months. Take your time and decide carefully on the job you choose, as you will be doing it for the next 4 years!