The General Technical (GT) score is one of the requirements to become a Navy SEAL. The GT score measures basic technical knowledge and skills in areas like arithmetic reasoning, word knowledge, and paragraph comprehension. To qualify for Navy SEAL training, you need a minimum GT score of 110. This score demonstrates you have the minimum level of general technical knowledge required to handle the intense mental demands of SEAL training.
What is the GT score?
The GT score is calculated from your scores on the Armed Services Vocational Aptitude Battery (ASVAB) test. The ASVAB is a multiple choice test used by the U.S. military to determine enlistment eligibility and job qualifications.
The GT score is calculated from your Standard Scores on three sections of the ASVAB:
- Arithmetic Reasoning (AR)
- Word Knowledge (WK)
- Paragraph Comprehension (PC)
To calculate your GT score, the formula is:
GT = AR + 2xWK + PC
Here’s an example:
- Arithmetic Reasoning: 50
- Word Knowledge: 60
- Paragraph Comprehension: 50
GT = 50 + (2 x 60) + 50 = 220
The maximum GT score possible is 150. Most Navy SEAL candidates score over 100 on the GT.
Why is the GT score important?
The GT score gives recruiters and Navy officials an indication of your general technical knowledge. It shows you have the foundational skills needed to learn and perform complex mental tasks required of a Navy SEAL.
Some key skills measured by the GT score include:
- Basic math and arithmetic reasoning
- Vocabulary and reading comprehension
- Ability to understand written information and instructions
These skills are critical because Navy SEALs must be able to:
- Quickly calculate and adjust resources like ammunition, fuel, etc.
- Read and interpret orders, manuals, maps, etc.
- Rapidly acquire new technical skills throughout extensive training
The GT score ensures recruits have the mental foundation to take on these complex cognitive demands.
What is the minimum GT score for Navy SEALs?
The minimum GT score to qualify for Navy SEAL training is 110. That means you need a minimum of 110 on your GT to pursue a SEAL contract.
However, only scoring the minimum 110 does not make you competitive. The SEAL standard is 110, but exceptional SEAL candidates score 120 or above on their GT.
SEAL GT Score Requirements
| Score | Rating |
|---|---|
| 110-119 | Minimum qualifying GT score |
| 120-129 | Competitive score |
| 130+ | Highly competitive score |
Try to score 120 or better on your GT to be a top SEAL candidate. The higher your GT, the more prepared you generally are for the academic rigor of BUD/S and SEAL training.
How is the GT score used?
The Navy uses GT scores for two main purposes:
- Screening test. The minimum GT score screens SEAL candidates for basic math, reading, and comprehension skills needed.
- Assigning specialties. Higher GT scores may qualify you for more technical SEAL roles like breacher, communicator, or sniper.
In screening, the GT verifies you have the minimum technical abilities for SEAL training. If your score is too low, you will not qualify to enlist as a SEAL.
For job assignment, a high GT score may allow you to qualify for certain SEAL roles requiring advanced skills. For example, SEAL breachers work with complex explosives to enter secured areas.
How to improve your GT score
Here are some tips to improve your GT score:
- Practice math reasoning – Work through arithmetic, geometry, algebra, and statistics problems. Focus on solving word problems.
- Study vocabulary – Use flashcards or vocabulary books to expand your knowledge of definitions.
- Read often – Reading daily can improve comprehension skills. Time yourself to work on speed.
- Take practice tests – Take practice ASVAB tests to improve in your weak areas.
- Avoid cramming – Study over several weeks; cramming won’t help with retention.
Consider taking an ASVAB prep course if you need significant improvement. Prep courses teach time-saving test strategies tailored to the ASVAB’s format and scoring.
What if you don’t get the minimum GT score?
If you score under 110 on the GT, you unfortunately cannot qualify for a SEAL contract. But don’t give up on becoming a SEAL if this is your dream.
Here are a few options if you get a low GT score:
- Retake the ASVAB – You can retake the ASVAB after 1 month of your last test date.
- Get a waiver – In rare cases, the SEALs may offer a GT waiver if your score is very close to 110.
- Enlist in another branch – Some branches like the Marines have lower GT requirements you may meet.
Before retaking the ASVAB, work hard to improve your math, vocabulary and reading skills. Study your weak areas and take practice tests to be prepared.
Conclusion
Achieving a strong GT score takes dedication, but it will put you on the path to becoming a Navy SEAL. Shoot for a competitive score of 120 or higher when you take the ASVAB. This will demonstrate you have the technical expertise to thrive throughout the intense SEAL training pipeline.