Are Asvab Scores Classified Information

The Armed Services Vocational Aptitude Battery (ASVAB) is a multiple-choice test administered by the United States Military Entrance Processing Command. The test is designed to measure a person's aptitude in various subjects and help determine their eligibility for military service and potential career paths within the military. But are ASVAB scores classified information? In this article, we will delve into the world of ASVAB scores and explore their classification.

Understanding ASVAB Scores

Before we dive into the classification of ASVAB scores, it's essential to understand what these scores represent. The ASVAB test measures a person's aptitude in various subjects, including general science, arithmetic reasoning, word knowledge, and mechanical comprehension, among others. The test results are used to determine a person's eligibility for military service and potential career paths within the military.

The ASVAB test produces several types of scores, including:

AFQT Score: The Armed Forces Qualification Test (AFQT) score is the most critical score, as it determines a person's eligibility for military service. The AFQT score is a combination of the math knowledge and reading comprehension scores.
Line Scores: Line scores are used to determine a person's aptitude in specific subjects and are used to qualify for various military occupations.
Composite Scores: Composite scores are a combination of line scores and are used to determine a person's overall aptitude in a particular area.

Are ASVAB Scores Classified Information?

Now that we understand what ASVAB scores represent, let's explore whether they are classified information. The short answer is no, ASVAB scores are not classified information. However, there are some caveats to consider.

ASVAB scores are considered sensitive information, and their release is governed by the Privacy Act of 1974. The Privacy Act prohibits the disclosure of personal information, including ASVAB scores, without the individual's consent. However, there are some exceptions to this rule.

Military Personnel: Military personnel have access to their own ASVAB scores and can use them to determine their eligibility for various military occupations.
Recruiters: Military recruiters have access to ASVAB scores as part of the recruitment process.
Educational Institutions: Educational institutions may have access to ASVAB scores as part of their academic programs.

In general, ASVAB scores are not publicly available, and their release is restricted to authorized personnel.

Security Clearance and ASVAB Scores

One area where ASVAB scores may be considered classified information is in the context of security clearance. In the military, security clearance is required for certain occupations and positions. ASVAB scores may be used as part of the security clearance process to determine a person's eligibility for a particular position.

In this context, ASVAB scores may be considered classified information, as they are used to determine a person's eligibility for sensitive positions. However, this is not the same as saying that ASVAB scores are inherently classified information.

How to Obtain Your ASVAB Scores

If you have taken the ASVAB test, you may be wondering how to obtain your scores. The process for obtaining ASVAB scores varies depending on your status.

Military Personnel: Military personnel can obtain their ASVAB scores through their unit's administrative office or by contacting the Military Personnel Office.
Veterans: Veterans can obtain their ASVAB scores by contacting the National Archives and Records Administration (NARA) or by submitting a request through the Freedom of Information Act (FOIA).
Civilians: Civilians who have taken the ASVAB test can obtain their scores by contacting the testing center where they took the test.

Conclusion

In conclusion, ASVAB scores are not inherently classified information. However, their release is governed by the Privacy Act of 1974, and their disclosure is restricted to authorized personnel. In certain contexts, such as security clearance, ASVAB scores may be considered classified information.

If you have taken the ASVAB test, you can obtain your scores by following the procedures outlined above. Remember that ASVAB scores are sensitive information, and their release should be handled in accordance with applicable laws and regulations.