1What Is a GT Score?
The GT score (General Technical score) is a composite score derived from your ASVAB test results. Unlike your AFQT score, which determines whether you can enlist, your GT score helps determine which specific jobs (called Military Occupational Specialties, or MOS) you qualify for.
The GT score measures your verbal and arithmetic reasoning abilities. It's used by the Army and Marine Corps to assess candidates for roles that require strong communication skills, problem-solving abilities, and the capacity to learn technical information quickly.
Key Point
Your GT score is one of several "line scores" calculated from your ASVAB subtests. Other line scores include CL (Clerical), CO (Combat), EL (Electronics), FA (Field Artillery), GM (General Maintenance), MM (Mechanical Maintenance), OF (Operators and Food), SC (Surveillance and Communications), and ST (Skilled Technical).
GT Score vs. AFQT Score
AFQT Score
- • Determines military enlistment eligibility
- • Expressed as a percentile (1-99)
- • Uses AR, MK, WK, and PC subtests
- • Minimum varies by branch (31-36)
GT Score
- • Determines job qualification
- • Expressed as a standard score
- • Uses AR, WK, and PC subtests
- • Average is 100; ranges typically 80-145+
2How the GT Score Is Calculated
The GT score is calculated by combining your performance on specific ASVAB subtests. The formula uses your Verbal Expression (VE) score plus your Arithmetic Reasoning (AR) score.
GT Score Formula
Where:
- VEVerbal Expression — A derived score combining Word Knowledge (WK) and Paragraph Comprehension (PC). The formula is: VE = WK + PC (scaled score).
- ARArithmetic Reasoning — Your raw score from the Arithmetic Reasoning subtest, which tests your ability to solve math word problems.
The Three Subtests That Affect Your GT Score
Word Knowledge (WK)
Tests your vocabulary through synonym identification and words used in context. You'll see questions like "Small most nearly means..." with multiple choice answers.
CAT-ASVAB: 15 questions in 8 minutes | Paper: 35 questions in 11 minutes
Paragraph Comprehension (PC)
Tests your ability to read and understand written passages. Questions ask about main ideas, details, inferences, and word meanings in context.
CAT-ASVAB: 10 questions in 22 minutes | Paper: 15 questions in 13 minutes
Arithmetic Reasoning (AR)
Tests your ability to solve word problems using basic math: addition, subtraction, multiplication, division, percentages, ratios, and simple algebra.
CAT-ASVAB: 15 questions in 55 minutes | Paper: 30 questions in 36 minutes
Important Note
The GT score uses standardized scores, not raw scores. Your performance is compared to a reference population, with the scale designed so that 100 represents the average score and each standard deviation equals 20 points. This means roughly 68% of test-takers score between 80 and 120.
3GT Score Ranges and What They Mean
GT scores typically range from around 80 to 145+, with 100 being the average. Here's what different score ranges generally indicate for your military career options.
Below Average
Limited job options; may not qualify for many technical roles
With a GT score in this range, you'll qualify for entry-level positions but will be limited in technical and specialized career fields. Consider retesting after focused preparation.
Average
Qualifies for many standard military jobs
You'll have access to a reasonable selection of MOS options, though some technical and intelligence positions will still be out of reach. Many combat and support roles are available.
Above Average
Opens up many more job opportunities
A solid score that qualifies you for the majority of military positions. You'll have good options across various career fields, including some technical roles.
High
Qualifies for nearly all positions including elite programs
This is the threshold for many specialized positions including intelligence, cyber operations, and certain special operations support roles. A GT score of 110 is also typically required for Officer Candidate School (OCS).
Target Score for Technical JobsExceptional
Top-tier scores; all doors open
Scores in this range place you well above average. You'll qualify for any MOS based on GT score requirements and may receive additional opportunities or incentives. Maximum scores typically reach around 145-147.
4Military Jobs That Require a High GT Score
Many of the most sought-after military careers require a GT score of 100 or higher, with the most competitive positions requiring 110+. Here are examples organized by GT score requirement.
Army Jobs Requiring GT Score of 110+
Cyber Operations Specialist (17C)
Conduct offensive and defensive cyber operations
GT: 110Signals Intelligence Analyst (35N)
Analyze intercepted communications
GT: 110Human Intelligence Collector (35M)
Gather intelligence through human sources
GT: 110Prime Power Production Specialist (12P)
Operate and maintain power generation equipment
GT: 110Criminal Investigations Special Agent (31D)
Investigate felony-level crimes
GT: 110Psychological Operations Specialist (37F)
Develop and deliver influence messaging
GT: 110Jobs Requiring GT Score of 100-109
Paralegal Specialist (27D)
Provide legal support services
GT: 105Public Affairs Specialist (46S)
Handle media relations and communications
GT: 107Health Care Specialist (68W)
Provide emergency medical treatment
GT: 107Intelligence Analyst (35F)
Analyze intelligence information
GT: 101Requirements Change
Military job requirements can change based on the needs of the service. Always verify current requirements with an official recruiter or the Army's official website. The scores listed above are representative examples and may not reflect the most current standards.
Other Programs Requiring High GT Scores
- Officer Candidate School (OCS): Typically requires a GT score of 110 or higher
- Warrant Officer Programs: Many require GT scores of 110+
- Special Forces Assessment: While GT isn't the only factor, high scores are common among candidates
- Language Training Programs: Defense Language Institute often requires high GT scores
5How to Improve Your GT Score
Since your GT score comes from just three subtests (WK, PC, and AR), focused preparation can make a significant difference. Here's how to improve in each area.
Improving Word Knowledge
Vocabulary is built over time, but strategic studying can accelerate your progress significantly.
- Learn 10-15 new words daily and review them using spaced repetition
- Study common prefixes (un-, pre-, dis-), suffixes (-tion, -ness, -able), and root words
- Read challenging material daily: news articles, editorials, non-fiction
- Use flashcard apps like Anki or Quizlet for systematic vocabulary building
Improving Paragraph Comprehension
Reading comprehension improves with practice and strategy. Focus on efficiency and accuracy.
- Read the questions before the passage to know what information to look for
- Practice identifying main ideas vs. supporting details
- Learn to distinguish between what the passage states directly and what it implies
- Practice with timed reading exercises to improve speed without sacrificing accuracy
Improving Arithmetic Reasoning
AR tests word problem solving. The math itself is basic, but translating words to equations is the challenge.
- Master percentages, ratios, proportions, and basic algebra
- Practice distance-rate-time and work-rate problems until they become routine
- Learn to identify key information and ignore irrelevant details in word problems
- Practice without a calculator — you can't use one on the ASVAB
Study Timeline for GT Score Improvement
Most test-takers can improve their GT score by 5-15 points with focused preparation. Here's a realistic timeline:
- 2-4 weeks:Modest improvement (3-7 points) if you study consistently
- 1-2 months:Significant improvement (8-15 points) possible with dedicated daily practice
- 3+ months:Maximum potential improvement, especially for vocabulary which takes time to build
6Common Questions About GT Scores
What is a good GT score?
A GT score of 100 is average. Scores of 110 or above are considered good and open doors to most military jobs. If you're aiming for technical or intelligence positions, target a GT score of 110 or higher. For maximum options, aim for 120+.
What is the maximum GT score?
There's no official maximum GT score, but in practice, the highest scores typically range from 145 to 147. Scores above 130 are exceptional and relatively rare.
Can I retake the ASVAB to improve my GT score?
Yes, you can retake the ASVAB. After your initial test, you must wait one calendar month to retest. After a second retest, you must wait six calendar months for any additional retests. Your most recent score is the one that counts, so make sure you're well-prepared before retesting.
Is the GT score the same for all military branches?
The calculation is similar across branches, but the Army and Marine Corps are the primary users of the GT score designation. The Navy and Air Force use different line score combinations for their job qualifications, though they draw from the same ASVAB subtests.
How long are ASVAB scores valid?
ASVAB scores are valid for two years from the date you took the test. If you don't enlist within that window, you'll need to retake the ASVAB.
Does my GT score affect my rank or pay?
Your GT score doesn't directly affect your starting rank or pay. However, it affects which jobs you qualify for, and some jobs may come with enlistment bonuses or faster promotion opportunities. Higher-skilled positions often have better long-term career prospects.
Start Preparing for Your Target GT Score
Whether you're aiming for 100 or 130+, consistent practice is the key to improving your GT score. Start with our free practice tests and track your progress.
Free Practice Tests