ASVAB vs. PiCAT: Which Test Should You Take?

ASVAB vs. PiCAT: Which Test Should You Take?

If you're planning to enlist in the U.S. military, you know you have to take the ASVAB. But you might have also heard of another test called the PiCAT. What is it? Is it easier? Which one should you take?

Choosing between the ASVAB and the PiCAT can be confusing, but it's an important decision. This guide will break down the differences, pros, and cons of each test to help you decide which path is right for you.

What is the PiCAT?

The Prescreening internet-based Computerized Adaptive Test (PiCAT) is essentially an unproctored version of the ASVAB that you can take from the comfort of your own home (or at a recruiter's office).

• It's a full-length ASVAB. It has the same sections, same number of questions, and the same format as the official ASVAB.
• It is unproctored. This means no one is watching you, and it's technically "open book." However, do not cheat (more on this later).
• The score is unofficial. Your PiCAT score is not your final score. You MUST validate it with a shorter, proctored test at a Military Entrance Processing Station (MEPS).

How the PiCAT Process Works

1. Your Recruiter Offers the PiCAT: Not everyone is offered the PiCAT. It's up to your recruiter.
2. You Take the PiCAT at Home: You'll be given an access code and can take the test on your own computer. It's untimed, but typically takes 2-3 hours.
3. You Get Your Unofficial Score: Immediately after finishing, you'll get your scores, including your AFQT and line scores. This gives you a great idea of where you stand.
4. The Validation Test: Within 45 days, you must go to MEPS to take a short validation test. This is a 20-30 minute, proctored test.

• If you pass the validation: Your PiCAT score becomes your official ASVAB score. Congratulations, you're done with the ASVAB!
• If you fail the validation: Your PiCAT score is thrown out, and you must immediately take a full-length, official ASVAB at MEPS.

The Big Question: Should You Cheat on the PiCAT?

Absolutely not. It's tempting to use a calculator or look up answers, but it's the worst thing you can do.

The validation test is designed to catch cheaters. It will ask you a small sample of questions similar to those on the PiCAT. If your answers on the validation test are significantly different from your PiCAT answers, the system will flag you.

• What happens if you're flagged? You fail the validation, your PiCAT score is voided, and you're forced to take the full ASVAB right then and there, completely unprepared. Your score will almost certainly be much lower than you need.

Treat the PiCAT as a serious, closed-book practice test. It's a low-pressure way to see what you'll score, not a shortcut.

ASVAB vs. PiCAT: Pros and Cons

#### Pros of Taking the PiCAT

1. Reduced Test Anxiety: Taking the test in a familiar environment can significantly reduce stress and lead to a higher score.
2. Self-Paced: You can take breaks between sections and don't have to worry about the clock, allowing you to focus on each question.
3. A "Free" Practice Run: It's a full-length, official practice test that gives you a very accurate picture of your abilities.
4. Shorter MEPS Day: If you pass validation, your day at MEPS is much shorter, as you only have to take a 30-minute test instead of a 3-hour one.

#### Cons of Taking the PiCAT

1. The Validation Hurdle: You still have to prove your score is legitimate. If you have a bad day during the validation test, you could lose your score.
2. The Temptation to Cheat: The lack of proctoring can lead to a false sense of security and the temptation to cheat, which will backfire.
3. The Risk of a Surprise ASVAB: Failing the validation test means you're thrown into the full ASVAB with no warning.

Who Should Take the PiCAT?

The PiCAT is a great option for:

• Good, honest students who are confident in their abilities but suffer from test anxiety.
• People who live far from a MEPS center and want to minimize their time there.
• Anyone who wants a highly accurate, full-length practice test before taking the real thing.

Who Should Just Take the ASVAB at MEPS?

• People who are not disciplined and know they would be tempted to cheat on the PiCAT.
• Recruits who want to get the test over with in one shot and not worry about a validation test later.
• Anyone who is not offered the PiCAT by their recruiter.

How to Prepare for the PiCAT

You should study for the PiCAT exactly as you would for the ASVAB. Don't change your strategy.

1. Take timed practice tests: Even though the PiCAT is untimed, you should practice under timed conditions to prepare for the possibility of having to take the full ASVAB at MEPS.
2. Don't use a calculator: The real test doesn't allow one, so don't practice with one.
3. Focus on your weak areas: Use practice tests to identify and improve your weak subjects.

The PiCAT is a tool. Used correctly, it's a fantastic, low-stress way to get your official ASVAB score. Used incorrectly, it's a trap that can lead to a lower score than you could have achieved otherwise.

The choice is yours. Talk to your recruiter, be honest with yourself about your discipline, and make the decision that's right for you.

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