If you need help studying for the Officer Aptitude Rating (OAR) test or just want some more information about what the test is like, you’ve come to the right place.
Click below to take a free OAR practice test!
What’s on the OAR Test?
The OAR test is a subset of the larger ASTB-E test, which is used to evaluate your skills and abilities before you become an officer of the Navy, Marine Corps, or Coast Guard.
If you’re interested in a position that doesn’t involve aviation, you can just take the OAR test instead of the full ASTB-E.
Here’s a closer look at each subtest:
MATH SKILLS TEST (MST)
~30 questions
- Equations and inequalities
- Algebraic expressions
- Operations with whole numbers, fractions, decimals, and percentages
- Properties of numbers
- Sequences
- Basic geometry
READING COMPREHENSION TEST (RCT)
~20 questions
- Main idea
- Supporting details
- Making inferences
- Determining the definition of words in context
- Tone
- Author’s purpose
MECHANICAL COMPREHENSION TEST (MCT)
~30 questions
- Force
- Energy
- Work
- Power
- Simple machines
- Electrical circuits
- Voltage and current
- Properties of fluids
- Properties and uses of mechanical tools
Computer-Adaptive Testing (CAT)
The OAR Test is a computer-adaptive test. Basically, this means that the questions will become harder or easier as you go through the exam, based on how well you’re answering the questions.
For example, say you answered the first question correctly. The first question is of medium difficulty, so the next question will be slightly harder. Then, let’s say you answered the second question incorrectly. The next question would then be a medium question.
How to Register
To get started with the registration process, you’ll need to contact a recruiter for the specific branch of the military you plan on joining. They’ll likely put you through a screening and application process before you can fully register.
Once you’re approved, you can schedule a testing appointment.
OAR Test Scores
Once you’ve taken the test, the hard part is over! You should receive your test scores as soon as you finish the test.
OAR test scores range from 20 to 80, with most people scoring between 40 and 60. The score you need to qualify for officer training varies by military branch. For instance, the Navy requires at least a score of 35. That being said, it’s a good idea to aim higher than the minimum required score.
Retaking the Test
If you didn’t get the score(s) you wanted on your first try, that’s okay! You can take the OAR test a total of three times, so you can try again for a better score.
Here’s the catch: your most recent score is the only score that will be accepted. This means that if you take the test a second time, that’s the score that will be accepted, even if the score from your first attempt was higher.
FAQs
Is the OAR test hard?
No, the OAR test is not considered to be a particularly difficult test, especially if you study adequately beforehand.
How long is the OAR test?
The test is timed at around 1.5 to 2 hours.
How many questions are on the OAR test?
There are about 80 questions on the test.
Can you use a calculator on the OAR test?
No, the questions are simple enough to be completed without the use of a calculator.