PiCAT Army: Everything You Need to Know About the At-Home Enlistment Test
The PiCAT (Pre-screening, Internet-delivered Computer Adaptive Test) lets you take the Army entrance exam from home before visiting MEPS. This comprehensive guide covers how the PiCAT Army test works, what to expect during verification, and strategies for maximizing your score.
Written by James Torres
Military Careers Writer | 8 Years Army Recruiting Experience
1What Is the PiCAT Army Test?
The PiCAT Army test is an unproctored version of the ASVAB that prospective Army recruits can take from any computer with internet access. Introduced by the Department of Defense in 2014, it allows candidates to complete the aptitude assessment on their own schedule before making the trip to a Military Entrance Processing Station (MEPS).
The PiCAT covers all nine ASVAB subject areas and produces the same scores used for Army job qualification. The key difference is convenience—you take it from home rather than at a testing center.
AFQT Components (Core)
- Arithmetic Reasoning (AR)
- Mathematics Knowledge (MK)
- Word Knowledge (WK)
- Paragraph Comprehension (PC)
Technical Subtests
- General Science (GS)
- Electronics Information (EI)
- Auto & Shop Information (AS)
- Mechanical Comprehension (MC)
- Assembling Objects (AO)
Why Army Recruiters Recommend the PiCAT
Army recruiters often encourage candidates to take the PiCAT because it streamlines the enlistment process. You'll know your preliminary scores before visiting MEPS, allowing your recruiter to discuss job options early. Many test-takers also perform better in a familiar, low-pressure environment.
2PiCAT vs. ASVAB: Understanding the Differences
The PiCAT and ASVAB test identical knowledge and skills using questions from the same item pool. However, several practical differences affect how you prepare and what to expect.
| Feature | PiCAT Army | ASVAB (CAT) |
|---|---|---|
| Testing Location | Home or any computer | MEPS or MET site |
| Supervision | Unproctored | Proctored |
| Time to Complete | ~2 hours | ~3 hours |
| Adaptive Testing | Yes | Yes |
| Score Validity | 30 days (must verify) | 2 years |
| Verification Required | Yes, at MEPS | No |
| Breaks Allowed | Between sections | Limited |
30-Day Verification Window
Your PiCAT Army scores expire after 30 days. You must complete the verification test at MEPS within this window, or you'll need to take the full ASVAB instead. Plan your MEPS visit accordingly with your recruiter.
3Who Can Take the PiCAT for Army Enlistment?
The PiCAT Army test is available to anyone actively working with an Army recruiter toward enlistment. You cannot access the test independently—your recruiter must initiate the process.
Eligibility Requirements
- Currently working with an authorized Army recruiter
- Access to a computer with stable internet connection
- No ASVAB or PiCAT taken in the past 30 days
- Able to visit MEPS for verification within 30 days
Starting the Process
Contact your local Army recruiting office or visit GoArmy.com to connect with a recruiter. Let them know you're interested in taking the PiCAT. They'll provide your unique access code and walk you through the next steps.
4Step-by-Step: Taking the PiCAT Army Test
The PiCAT Army process involves several steps, from initial contact with your recruiter through verification at MEPS. Here's what to expect:
Meet with Your Army Recruiter
Schedule an appointment at your local recruiting station. Discuss your goals and express interest in taking the PiCAT as your initial assessment.
Receive Your Access Credentials
Your recruiter will create your PiCAT account and provide login credentials along with instructions for accessing the testing platform.
Set Up Your Testing Environment
Choose a quiet location free from distractions. Ensure reliable internet, gather scratch paper and pencil, and close unnecessary programs.
Complete All Nine Subtests
Work through each section at your own pace. You can take breaks between subtests, but complete each section once started. The entire test takes approximately 2 hours.
Review Preliminary Results
Your recruiter receives your scores immediately. Meet to discuss results and explore Army jobs you qualify for based on your performance.
Schedule MEPS Verification
If satisfied with your scores, schedule a MEPS visit within 30 days to complete the verification test and make your results official.
Test-Taking Environment Tips
- Use a desktop or laptop computer (not a phone or tablet)
- Test during a time when you won't be interrupted
- Keep your phone silenced and out of reach
- Have water nearby but no food during testing
5MEPS Verification Test Explained
Since the PiCAT Army test is unproctored, the military requires a verification test at MEPS to confirm your identity and that you completed the test honestly. This step is mandatory before your PiCAT scores become official.
What to Expect at MEPS Verification
Duration: 25-30 minutes
The verification test is much shorter than the full ASVAB, containing approximately 30 questions drawn from various subtests.
Consistency Check
Your verification scores must fall within an acceptable range of your PiCAT performance. Significant discrepancies trigger a full ASVAB retest.
Proctored Environment
Unlike the at-home PiCAT, verification is administered under controlled conditions with test proctors present.
What If Verification Fails?
If your verification scores differ significantly from your PiCAT results, you'll take the full ASVAB at MEPS that same day. Your PiCAT scores will be discarded, and your ASVAB performance becomes your official record. This is why it's crucial to take the PiCAT honestly without outside assistance.
6PiCAT Army Scoring and Line Scores
PiCAT Army scoring mirrors the ASVAB exactly. You'll receive an AFQT score (determining enlistment eligibility) and line scores (determining job qualification).
AFQT Score
Your Armed Forces Qualification Test score is a percentile from 1-99, calculated from AR, MK, WK, and PC subtests.
Army Line Scores
Line scores combine subtests to qualify you for specific Military Occupational Specialties (MOS).
GT Score: The Key to Army Opportunities
The General Technical (GT) score is arguably the most important line score for Army careers. Many desirable jobs like 25B (IT Specialist), 35F (Intelligence Analyst), and 68W (Combat Medic) require GT scores of 95-110+. Focus on verbal and arithmetic reasoning to maximize your GT.
7How to Prepare for the PiCAT Army
Even though you take the PiCAT Army test from home, thorough preparation is essential. Your scores determine your career options, and you need to verify them at MEPS—so studying honestly pays off.
Master the AFQT Subjects
Arithmetic Reasoning, Mathematics Knowledge, Word Knowledge, and Paragraph Comprehension determine eligibility. Prioritize these four areas above all else.
Know Your Target MOS
Research which Army jobs interest you and their line score requirements. Focus extra study time on subtests that feed into those specific scores.
Take Practice Tests Regularly
Use practice tests to identify weak areas and track improvement. Simulate test conditions by timing yourself and working without interruptions.
Prepare for Verification
Remember you'll need to replicate your performance at MEPS. Don't use outside help during the PiCAT—if you can't match your scores during verification, you'll take the full ASVAB instead.
Start Practicing Now
Use our free practice questions above or explore all ASVAB subjects to build the scores you need for your Army career.
All Practice Tests8Frequently Asked Questions
Can I retake the PiCAT Army if I'm unhappy with my score?
You cannot retake the PiCAT itself. However, you can choose to take the full ASVAB at MEPS instead of the verification test. If you verify and later want to improve, standard ASVAB retest rules apply (30-day wait for first retest, then 6-month intervals).
How long are PiCAT Army scores valid?
PiCAT scores are valid for 30 days from completion. You must verify at MEPS within this window. Once verified, your scores become ASVAB scores with the standard 2-year validity period.
Can I use a calculator on the PiCAT Army test?
No, calculators are not allowed on the PiCAT, just like the ASVAB. Practice mental math and working problems by hand. You can use scratch paper and pencil during testing.
Is the PiCAT Army easier than the ASVAB?
The difficulty is identical—questions come from the same pool. However, many test-takers score better on the PiCAT because they can take it in a comfortable, familiar environment without the pressure of a testing center.
What happens if I fail the verification test?
If your verification scores don't match your PiCAT closely enough, you'll take the complete ASVAB at MEPS that same day. Your ASVAB scores then become your official results for Army enlistment.
Can I take breaks during the PiCAT Army test?
Yes, you can pause between sections of the PiCAT. However, once you begin a section, complete it without interruption. The test saves your progress between subtests automatically.
Ready to Start Practicing?
Take our free ASVAB practice tests to prepare for your military entrance exam. Get detailed explanations and track your progress.