Combat (CO) Score

The Combat (CO) line score on the Armed Services Vocational Aptitude Battery (ASVAB) is used to determine eligibility for specific Military Occupational Specialties (MOS) in the U.S. Army that involve combat operations, such as infantry, armor, and artillery roles. The CO score is calculated using a combination of specific ASVAB subtest scores, which measure your aptitude in areas crucial to combat-related tasks, such as mechanical comprehension, arithmetic reasoning, and understanding automotive and shop concepts.

In this article, we will break down how the CO score is calculated, which subtests contribute to it, and what types of Army jobs (MOS) typically require a high CO score.

How to Calculate the CO ASVAB Score

The CO score is derived using a combination of subtests that reflect a recruit’s ability to operate in combat roles. The formula for the CO line score is:

CO=AS+MC+AR+VE

where:

• AS (Auto and Shop Information) measures knowledge of automotive maintenance, repair, and basic shop practices.
• MC (Mechanical Comprehension) assesses your understanding of mechanical principles and the operation of physical systems.
• AR (Arithmetic Reasoning) tests your ability to solve arithmetic word problems.
• VE (Verbal Expression) is a composite score that is calculated by adding the scores from Word Knowledge (WK) and Paragraph Comprehension (PC) and then converting the total using an ASVAB standard conversion chart.

Step-by-Step Calculation of the CO Score

1. Calculate the VE Score:
   • Add the raw scores from Word Knowledge (WK) and Paragraph Comprehension (PC) subtests.
   • Use the ASVAB conversion chart to convert this sum into a scaled VE score.
2. Add the Subtest Scores Together:
   • Once you have your scaled VE score, you can add it to the raw scores from the Auto and Shop Information (AS), Mechanical Comprehension (MC), and Arithmetic Reasoning (AR) subtests to get your total CO score.

Example Calculation of the CO Score

Let’s say a test-taker receives the following ASVAB scores:

• Word Knowledge (WK): 45
• Paragraph Comprehension (PC): 40
• Auto and Shop Information (AS): 55
• Mechanical Comprehension (MC): 60
• Arithmetic Reasoning (AR): 50

Step 1: Calculate the VE Score

1. Add WK and PC:WK+PC=45+40=85
2. Convert the raw VE score of 85 using the ASVAB conversion chart, which gives a scaled VE score of 55.

Step 2: Add the Subtest Scores

1. Now, add the scaled VE score to the other raw subtest scores to calculate the CO score: CO=AS+MC+AR+VE=55+60+50+55=220

So, the CO score in this example would be 220.

What Army MOS Require a High CO Score?

The CO score is particularly important for Army MOS that involve combat operations, where physical and mechanical aptitude, along with verbal and arithmetic reasoning, play a critical role. Below are some common Army MOS and their respective CO score requirements:

1. 11B – Infantryman
   • CO score required: 87
   • Infantrymen are the backbone of the Army’s combat force, engaging in ground combat and operating a variety of weapons and equipment. A solid understanding of mechanical principles and the ability to make quick calculations are essential.
2. 11C – Indirect Fire Infantryman
   • CO score required: 87
   • Similar to the Infantryman, but specializing in operating mortars and other indirect fire weapons, this role also demands mechanical comprehension and arithmetic reasoning.
3. 12B – Combat Engineer
   • CO score required: 87
   • Combat Engineers build fortifications, clear obstacles, and use explosives, so understanding how equipment works and how to solve practical problems is vital.
4. 19D – Cavalry Scout
   • CO score required: 87
   • Cavalry Scouts gather intelligence on the battlefield and engage in reconnaissance missions. This role requires both combat proficiency and the ability to make quick, informed decisions.
5. 19K – M1 Armor Crewman
   • CO score required: 87
   • M1 Armor Crewmen operate tanks in combat. The mechanical and automotive knowledge measured in the AS and MC subtests are essential for this role, as it involves operating and maintaining armored vehicles.

Why is the CO Score Important?

The CO score is critical for soldiers looking to pursue roles in the Army’s combat units. Combat operations require individuals who can solve problems quickly, work with advanced mechanical systems, and apply basic arithmetic to tactical situations. A high CO score indicates that a recruit has the aptitudes necessary to perform well in these demanding roles.

Here are some key reasons why a high CO score is important:

1. Combat Readiness:
   A strong grasp of mechanical and automotive principles is essential for maintaining and operating military equipment, from vehicles to weaponry. The CO score reflects your readiness to handle these responsibilities.
2. Tactical Problem-Solving:
   Combat situations often require fast decision-making based on limited information. Your ability to think critically, perform calculations, and follow instructions is measured through the arithmetic reasoning and verbal subtests.
3. Physical Equipment Mastery:
   Many combat roles require you to understand how complex systems and machinery work, whether it’s operating a tank, maintaining artillery, or using explosives. The mechanical comprehension and auto/shop knowledge subtests are key indicators of how well you can handle these tasks.

How to Improve Your CO Score

Improving your CO score involves focusing on the four subtests that contribute to it: Auto and Shop Information (AS), Mechanical Comprehension (MC), Arithmetic Reasoning (AR), and Verbal Expression (VE).

1. Study Basic Mechanics and Automotive Concepts:
   Brush up on general mechanical principles and basic auto maintenance. You can find plenty of free resources online or take introductory classes to build your knowledge.
2. Improve Your Arithmetic Skills:
   Work on solving word problems and basic algebra to improve your Arithmetic Reasoning (AR) score. Many practice tests and ASVAB prep books focus specifically on this area.
3. Expand Your Vocabulary and Reading Comprehension:
   To boost your Verbal Expression (VE) score, focus on learning new vocabulary and practicing reading comprehension exercises. Understanding word meanings and being able to extract information from written texts are essential skills for improving your VE score.
4. Practice with ASVAB Prep Tests:
   Take practice ASVAB tests that specifically target the AS, MC, AR, and VE subtests. This will not only familiarize you with the format but also highlight areas where you need improvement.

Conclusion

The CO line score plays a pivotal role in determining eligibility for some of the most demanding and essential combat roles in the U.S. Army. Whether you are aspiring to be an Infantryman, Cavalry Scout, or Combat Engineer, understanding how the CO score is calculated and knowing how to improve it can help you qualify for these important military occupational specialties. Focus on building your mechanical knowledge, arithmetic reasoning, and verbal skills to achieve a high CO score and increase your chances of success in these vital combat positions.