AFOQT Scoring Overview
How AFOQT Scores Work
AFOQT scores are reported as percentiles from 1-99, meaning your score represents how you performed compared to a reference group of test-takers. A score of 85 means you scored better than 85% of the reference group.
Composite Scores
- • Pilot
- • Combat Systems Officer (CSO)
- • Air Battle Manager (ABM)
- • Academic Aptitude
- • Verbal
- • Quantitative
Key Facts
- • Scores valid for life
- • One retake after 150 days
- • Higher scores = better selection odds
- • Requirements vary by program
Pilot Score Requirements
Pilot candidates must meet the highest score requirements due to the competitive nature and training costs of pilot positions.
| Commissioning Source |
Pilot |
Academic Aptitude |
Verbal |
Quantitative |
| Officer Training School (OTS) |
25 |
15 |
15 |
10 |
| Air Force ROTC |
25 |
15 |
15 |
10 |
| Air Force Academy |
25 |
15 |
15 |
10 |
Important: These are minimum requirements. Competitive pilot candidates typically score much higher (see competitive scores section below).
Combat Systems Officer (CSO) & Air Battle Manager (ABM)
Combat Systems Officer (CSO)
CSOs operate weapons and sensor systems on multi-crew aircraft. Also known as Navigator or Weapon Systems Officer (WSO).
| Source |
CSO |
Academic |
| OTS |
25 |
15 |
| ROTC |
25 |
15 |
| Academy |
25 |
15 |
Air Battle Manager (ABM)
ABMs control airspace and coordinate air operations from command and control aircraft like AWACS.
| Source |
ABM |
Academic |
| OTS |
25 |
15 |
| ROTC |
25 |
15 |
| Academy |
25 |
15 |
General Officer Requirements by Commissioning Source
| Commissioning Program |
Academic Aptitude |
Verbal |
Quantitative |
Notes |
| Officer Training School (OTS) |
15 |
15 |
10 |
Most competitive |
| Air Force ROTC |
15 |
15 |
10 |
College program |
| Air Force Academy |
N/A |
N/A |
N/A |
Academy admissions |
| Direct Commission |
Varies |
Varies |
Varies |
Professional fields |
Key Differences:
- OTS: Most competitive due to limited slots and civilian applicants
- ROTC: College-based program with scholarship opportunities
- Academy: Uses different selection criteria beyond AFOQT
- Direct Commission: For professionals in specific fields (medical, legal, chaplain)
Competitive Score Ranges
While minimum scores get you considered, competitive scores significantly improve your selection chances.
These ranges are based on recent selection data and applicant feedback.
Pilot Competitive Scores
Highly Competitive
85-99
Competitive
70-84
Considered
50-69
Below Competitive
25-49
CSO/ABM Competitive Scores
Highly Competitive
75-99
Competitive
60-74
Considered
40-59
Below Competitive
25-39
Remember: AFOQT scores are just one part of your application. Leadership experience,
physical fitness, academic performance, and other factors also significantly impact selection.
How to Improve Your Scores
Study Strategies
-
Focus 60% of study time on weakest sections
-
Take timed practice tests regularly
-
Review explanations for all missed questions
-
Practice without a calculator (not allowed on test)
-
Build vocabulary for verbal sections
Time Management Tips
-
Practice under strict time limits
-
Don't spend too long on any single question
-
Mark difficult questions and return if time allows
-
Pace yourself: aim to finish with 2-3 minutes remaining
-
Use process of elimination on difficult questions
AFOQT Retake Policy
Retake Rules
- First Retake: Must wait 150 days after initial test
- Second Retake: Requires waiver approval (rarely granted)
- Score Reporting: Only your highest scores are used
- Validity: Scores are valid for your entire career
Should You Retake?
Consider Retaking If:
- • You scored below competitive ranges
- • You didn't prepare adequately for first attempt
- • You experienced test anxiety or other issues
- • You have time to study effectively
Think Carefully If:
- • Your scores are already competitive
- • You're close to application deadlines
- • Other application areas need improvement
- • You scored reasonably well on first attempt
Strategy Tip: Use the 150-day waiting period to strengthen other areas of your
application (leadership experience, physical fitness, etc.) while continuing AFOQT preparation.
Ready to Achieve Your Target Scores?
Practice with realistic questions and track your progress toward competitive scores