Overcome barriers: Navigate GED, transfers, and special circumstances

In Part 4 of our 5-part series on ASVAB requirements and eligibility minimums, we provide advice on how to reach your dream position in the military as a GED holder or transfer applicant.

In this series:

1. Master the ASVAB: Decode its impact on your military path
2. Compare branch standards: Pinpoint minimum ASVAB scores for enlistment
3. Unlock career paths: Target ASVAB scores for top military jobs and elite programs
4. Overcome barriers: Navigate GED, transfers, and special circumstances
5. Maximize your advantage: Verify, prepare, and advance with ASVAB insights
   
   

Turn your GED into a military enlistment advantage: Key strategies for higher ASVAB scores and expanded options

If you’re considering a military career but have a GED instead of a traditional high school diploma, you’re not alone - and you’re not out of luck. Understanding how the military evaluates GED holders can help you plan your path to enlistment and maximize your options.

Know the challenges and benchmarks: Military branches place strict limits on how many GED holders they enlist. For example, only about 10% of new recruits can come from the Tier 2 category (which includes GED holders), with even lower percentages in some branches: less than 1% for the Air Force, about 10% for the Army and Navy, and 5% for the Marine Corps (military GED enlistment limits).

The main requirements for GED holders include:

• A minimum ASVAB score of 50: this is higher than what’s required for high school diploma holders (ASVAB score requirements for GED).
• Top jobs require even higher ASVAB scores, sometimes over 100 (Army requirements during recruiting crisis).
• Certain programs and bonuses may not be available to GED holders (GED pathway for military enlistment).

How to strengthen your application

• Take 15 college credits to qualify as Tier 1, which gives you full eligibility (how to become Tier 1 for military service).
• Focus on branches with more openings for GED holders - the Army and Navy are your best bets.
• Invest in serious ASVAB preparation - scores well above 50 can give you more career choices.

“GED holders who demonstrate exceptional performance on the ASVAB and complete preparatory college coursework prove they possess the academic foundation needed for military success, effectively neutralizing the perceived disadvantage.” - Ret. Colonel Michael Matthews

While a GED means extra steps, with strong ASVAB scores and added education, you can compete for a wide range of military roles.

Transferring ASVAB scores: What to know about eligibility, retests, and branch changes

Are you thinking about switching branches, or wondering what happens if you transfer your ASVAB scores? Here’s what you need to know as a prospective recruit:

• ASVAB scores are valid for two years across all branches (ASVAB score validity across branches).
• Your most recent ASVAB score always replaces previous ones. Even if your new score is lower, it counts (official ASVAB retesting guidelines).
• Retesting rules can differ:
  • Army: You can retest if your score has expired or if you don’t qualify.
  • Coast Guard: Retests are usually limited to specific program needs (ASVAB retesting rules by branch).
• High school ASVAB scores aren’t official for enlistment. You’ll typically need to retake the test after 30 days (high school ASVAB test retake policy).

"The standardized nature of the ASVAB creates a common metric that transcends branch-specific requirements, though minimum thresholds vary significantly." - Dr. Michael O'Neil, National Defense University

Action steps for recruits:

• Check your ASVAB score against your preferred branch’s minimum before transferring.
• Only retake the ASVAB when you’re confident - you can’t go back to a higher previous score.
• Know your branch’s policy on retesting and timing.

Being informed about these details can help you keep your career options open as you move between branches or retest.

ASVAB accommodations and special circumstances: What to expect

If you’re a candidate who needs testing accommodations (like extra time or a reader), it’s important to know that the military does not accept ASVAB scores earned with accommodations for enlistment (official USMEPCOM policy on ASVAB accommodations). Accommodations might be available for school-based ASVAB tests, but those results can’t be used to enlist.

Why? The military requires all recruits to show they can process information quickly and independently, just like they’ll need to in service. As a result:

• No accommodations for the enlistment ASVAB, even for those with a 504 or IEP plan
• No Braille version is available - candidates who are blind or have severe visual impairment are not eligible (Braille ASVAB and accessibility limitations)
• Testing is English-only - no translation or language support for non-native speakers

“ASVABs administered with accommodations...cannot be used for military enlistment.” (ASVAB accommodations policy source)

For aspiring service members with special circumstances, these policies can create real barriers. All applicants must take the ASVAB under the same conditions to qualify.

See how ASVAB scores fit into your overall enlistment profile

As a future recruit, remember that your ASVAB score is just one part of the bigger picture. Recruiters consider everything - your age, citizenship, health, fitness, and education.

Key details to keep in mind:

• ASVAB scores are valid for up to two years (official ASVAB score validity policy), so you have time to explore different roles and finish other requirements.
• A GED or college credits can change your required ASVAB score. For example, Coast Guard and Navy GED applicants usually need an AFQT of 50 and additional credits (Coast Guard AFQT and education policy).
• Every branch has its own standards for age, citizenship, and medical fitness. The ASVAB is just one piece of your application.
• Screening is thorough: Even a high ASVAB score can’t make up for not meeting medical or educational requirements (ASVAB and Army jobs guide, ASVAB score requirements by branch).

Bottom line for recruits: The ASVAB is essential, but to qualify for your ideal job, you’ll need to meet every academic, physical, and legal requirement. Be ready to present your complete profile to your recruiter.

Enhance your ASVAB score by strengthening your English skills for broader military opportunities

If you want to boost your ASVAB score and open up more military career options, focus on your English skills. The Armed Forces Qualification Test (AFQT) relies heavily on English, especially the Verbal Expression (VE) section, which makes up half your score (AFQT score breakdown).

The AFQT combines arithmetic reasoning, math knowledge, and double-weighted verbal expression. Strong reading comprehension, the ability to follow instructions, and a broad vocabulary will help you qualify for more roles.

Research shows that the ASVAB measures your accumulated knowledge - "crystallized intelligence" - so improving your English can directly raise your score (ASVAB and crystallized intelligence research).

If English isn’t your first language: The Army’s Foreign Language Recruiting Initiative (FLRI) may be an option. You’ll need a score of 40-74 on the English Comprehension Language Test (ECLT) and to meet ASVAB standards, or you can complete English as a Second Language (ESL) training (Army FLRI process and requirements).

A higher AFQT means access to more technical and specialized positions. As Maj. Gen. Kevin Vereen says, “Applicants who are not dominant English speakers know they still have the opportunity to find a life of purpose... no matter their dominant language.”

To improve your ASVAB score as a future recruit:

• Grow your English vocabulary
• Practice reading and following instructions
• Learn technical words related to your military interests

The stronger your English skills, the more career paths and benefits you’ll find in the military.

In the final installment of our 5-part series on ASVAB requirements, "Maximize your advantage: Verify, prepare, and advance with ASVAB insights," we detail exam preparation and logistical tips for the ASVAB so you can walk into your exam confidently.