The Full Guide to the PiCAT Practice Test
Here is what you need to know about the PiCAT. Learn how it works and what to expect. See how to use practice tests to get your best score.
1What is the PiCAT?
The PiCAT (Pre-screening, internet-delivered Computer Adaptive Test) is a test you take before you join. The United States Military Entrance Processing Command (USMEPCOM) made it. It is an early version of the ASVAB (Armed Services Vocational Aptitude Battery). People who want to join can take it at home. They take it before they go to a Military Entrance Processing Station (MEPS).
The PiCAT makes joining the military faster. Recruiters can see if you are likely to qualify before they send you to MEPS. This saves time for you and for the military. You find out if you will likely reach the lowest scores before you travel to MEPS.
Key Facts About the PiCAT
- Free to take: Your military recruiter gives you the PiCAT at no cost
- Mostly no timer: Unlike the ASVAB, most PiCAT parts don't have a strict timer
- Same subjects: It has the same kinds of questions and subtests as the ASVAB
- Check test needed: You must prove your scores at MEPS with a short second test
- Lasts 30 days: You must take the check test within 30 days of the PiCAT
The PiCAT is great for people who get nervous about tests. It is also good if you want to see where you stand first. You take it somewhere comfy, with no strict timer. So many people score higher on the PiCAT. They do better than on a first try at the ASVAB at MEPS.
2PiCAT vs. ASVAB: How They Are Different
The PiCAT and the ASVAB test the same skills. But there are some big differences. They can change how the test feels and how you should take it.
| What | PiCAT | ASVAB (CAT-ASVAB) |
|---|---|---|
| Location | Home or recruiter's office | MEPS or Military Entrance Test (MET) site |
| Who Watches | No one watches | Test monitors watch closely |
| Time Limits | No timer (except Assembling Objects) | Strict timer for every part |
| Number of Questions | 145 questions | 145-225 questions (depends on the version) |
| Changes as You Go | No (same questions) | Yes (gets harder or easier based on how you do) |
| Check Test Needed | Yes (at MEPS) | No |
| Retake Rules | One try | Can take again after a wait |
Good to Know About Time Limits
Most of the PiCAT has no timer. But the Assembling Objects subtest does. You get 40 minutes for 16 questions. Also, USMEPCOM may check your scores if you spend a very long time on questions. So "no timer" does not mean you can spend hours looking up answers.
3The PiCAT Subtests
The PiCAT has 10 subtests. They check your skills in different areas. Four of them make up your AFQT score: Arithmetic Reasoning, Mathematics Knowledge, Word Knowledge, and Paragraph Comprehension. Your AFQT score decides if you can join. The other subtests set your line scores. Line scores decide which military jobs you can get.
AFQT Subtests (Decide If You Can Join)
Arithmetic Reasoning (AR)
16 word problems that you solve with math
Mathematics Knowledge (MK)
16 questions on algebra, geometry, and other math ideas
Word Knowledge (WK)
16 questions on what words mean
Paragraph Comprehension (PC)
11 questions on how well you understand what you read
Science and Tech Subtests (Help Decide Your Job)
General Science (GS)
16 questions on biology, chemistry, physics, and earth science
Electronics Information (EI)
16 questions on how electricity and electric parts work
Auto Information (AI)
11 questions on car parts and car care
Shop Information (SI)
11 questions on tools and shop work
Mechanical Comprehension (MC)
16 questions on how machines and forces work
Assembling Objects (AO)
16 timed questions on picturing how shapes fit together
4The Check Test (Verification Test)
No one watches you take the PiCAT. So the military makes you prove your scores at MEPS. This shows you earned your PiCAT score yourself, with no help. Many people don't take this check test seriously enough.
How the Check Test Works
You go to MEPS
Within 30 days of the PiCAT, you go to MEPS to get processed
Take a 30-question check test
You answer 30 questions like the ones on your PiCAT (25-30 minutes)
Your scores are compared
If your check test matches your PiCAT, your scores are confirmed
Pass, or take the full ASVAB
Pass the check test to keep your PiCAT scores. If you don't pass, you take the full ASVAB.
What If You Don't Pass the Check Test?
If your check test score is very different from your PiCAT score, your PiCAT results won't count. Then you must take the full ASVAB at MEPS. That is why you must really learn the material. Don't cheat on the PiCAT.
Also, if MEPS thinks you cheated, it could hurt your chances to join. The military cares about honesty. Starting your military career with people doubting you is a bad start.
5How PiCAT Scores Work
PiCAT scores work the same way as ASVAB scores. You get an AFQT percentile score (1-99). You also get line scores, which decide which jobs you can get.
AFQT Score Groups
Note: People in Category V can't join. Most branches need an AFQT score of at least 31-36. A few need higher scores.
Lowest AFQT Scores by Branch
These are the lowest scores each branch takes. Higher scores open up more jobs.
6PiCAT Practice Test Tips
Using practice tests well is one of the best ways to get ready for the PiCAT. Here is how to get the most out of your practice.
Start with a Practice Test to See Where You Stand
Before you study, take a full practice test. Find your strong and weak spots. Then spend your study time where you need it most.
Our free 10-question AFQT quizzes above give you a quick check of where you are now.
Focus on AFQT Subjects First
Your AFQT score decides if you can join at all. So study Arithmetic Reasoning, Mathematics Knowledge, Word Knowledge, and Paragraph Comprehension first. Once you feel good about them, move on to the science and tech subtests.
Practice Without a Timer First, Then Add One
Most of the PiCAT has no timer. But the check test does. First, learn the material without worrying about speed. As you get better, practice with a timer. That way you will do well on the check test.
Review Every Wrong Answer
Don't just look at your score and move on. For each question you miss, learn why you got it wrong. Learn why the right answer is right. This turns mistakes into lessons.
Suggested Study Schedule
- Week 1: Take a practice test, then work on Word Knowledge and Paragraph Comprehension
- Week 2: Arithmetic Reasoning and Mathematics Knowledge
- Week 3: Science and tech subtests for the job you want (your MOS)
- Week 4: Full practice tests and review your weak spots
7Common Mistakes to Avoid
Many people make PiCAT mistakes they could have stopped. These mistakes hurt their scores or cause trouble at the check test. Here are the most common ones and how to stay away from them.
Mistakes to Avoid
- ✗Getting help from other people during the PiCAT
- ✗Looking up answers online during the test
- ✗Waiting more than 30 days to take the check test
- ✗Not studying for the check test because you "already passed"
- ✗Only working on weak spots and forgetting your strong ones
- ✗Taking the test when tired or distracted
Do This Instead
- ✓Take the PiCAT alone in a quiet place
- ✓Study first so you really know the material
- ✓Plan your MEPS visit within 2 weeks of the PiCAT
- ✓Keep studying between the PiCAT and the check test
- ✓Keep all your subjects at the same good level
- ✓Pick a time when you are awake and focused
8Common Questions
Can I retake the PiCAT if I get a low score?
You can only take the PiCAT once. If you don't like your score, you will need to take the full ASVAB at MEPS. And if you don't pass the check test, your PiCAT won't count. Then you take the ASVAB anyway. That is why you should study well before you take the PiCAT.
How long does the PiCAT take?
Most people finish the PiCAT in 2-3 hours. Since most of it has no timer, you can take breaks. The only timed part is Assembling Objects (40 minutes for 16 questions). You don't have to finish the whole test in one sitting.
Is the PiCAT easier than the ASVAB?
The questions are just as hard. But many people find the PiCAT easier because they feel relaxed and there is no timer. Just remember, you must prove your scores in a normal test room. So you need to really know the material.
Can I use a calculator on the PiCAT?
No. Just like the ASVAB, you can't use a calculator on the PiCAT. You will do all the math by hand. Practice math in your head and basic arithmetic before the test.
Do all military branches accept PiCAT scores?
Yes. Every branch of the U.S. military takes PiCAT scores once you pass the check test. That includes the Army, Navy, Air Force, Marines, Coast Guard, and Space Force. Your recruiter can tell you more about what your branch needs.
What happens to my PiCAT score if I don't take the check test in time?
You have 30 days to take the check test. If you don't, your PiCAT scores run out and won't count. Then you will need to take the full ASVAB at MEPS. So plan your MEPS visit as soon as you can after the PiCAT.
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