Every military branch has a minimum AFQT score for enlistment. Here are the current cutoffs, GED holder requirements, and what you actually need to be competitive.
These are the minimum AFQT percentile scores required for enlistment. GED holders face higher cutoffs at every branch.
| Branch | HS Diploma | GED | Competitive |
|---|---|---|---|
Army | 31 | 50 | 50+ |
Marines | 31 | 50 | 50+ |
Navy | 31 | 50 | 50+ |
Air Force | 31 | 50 | 50+ |
Space Force | 31 | 50 | 50+ |
Coast Guard | 36 | 50 | 50+ |
Meeting the minimum gets your foot in the door — it does not guarantee a good job. Most desirable MOS/ratings require line scores well above the floor. Aim for 50+ AFQT to keep your options open, and 65+ to be competitive for technical roles.
GED holders are classified as Tier 2 applicants. Most branches require a 50 AFQT for GED holders compared to 31 for diploma holders. Some branches limit the number of Tier 2 recruits they accept each year, making a high score even more important.
Get your estimated AFQT in 15 minutes. Free, no account required.
Branch Minimum Scores Cheat Sheet
Every branch's AFQT cutoff, GED vs diploma requirements, and competitive scores — one printable PDF.