MEPS Cheat Sheet 2026

The 30 highest-yield MEPS facts, distilled from real exam questions. Print it, save it as a PDF, or study it here — free, no sign-up.

1. When a recruit enlists into the DEP at MEPS, they technically become a member of which military component? → The Ready Reserve
2. An Air Force applicant needs a minimum AFQT score of how much to enlist with a high school diploma? → 36
3. Besides determining the AFQT score for enlistment eligibility, what is the other major purpose of the various ASVAB subtest scores? → To match applicants with military jobs (MOS/Ratings) they are best suited for.
4. What happens if a DEP member gains excessive weight and no longer meets military body composition standards? → They must work with their recruiter to return to standards or may face DEP discharge
5. Which factor, besides AFQT and composite scores, can affect which military jobs an applicant qualifies for at MEPS? → Security clearance eligibility
6. Which substance is NOT typically screened for in the standard MEPS urine drug panel? → Alcohol
7. What happens at MEPS if an applicant does not meet the minimum AFQT score for their desired branch? → They can be counseled to retake the ASVAB or explore other service options
8. What must MEPS applicants disclose regarding drug use prior to the drug test? → Past drug use on the medical history questionnaire, even if the test is negative
9. What criminal offense, even if classified as a misdemeanor under state law, is treated as a near-absolute bar for military service due to federal firearms law? → Domestic violence (under the Lautenberg Amendment)
10. What is generally expected of DEP members regarding physical fitness during their waiting period? → Maintaining or improving physical fitness to meet entry standards upon arrival
11. The Navy's 'VE' composite score used for job qualification is derived from which two ASVAB subtests? → Word Knowledge and Paragraph Comprehension
12. What is heroin's approximate detection window in a urine drug screen? → 2–4 days
13. After an applicant tests positive at MEPS, who ultimately determines if they are medically disqualified? → The Military Entrance Processing Command Medical Officer or reviewing authority
14. What does the term 'expunged record' mean in the context of military moral waivers? → The record was sealed by the court but still must be disclosed on military applications
15. What is the official Department of Defense form that constitutes the legally binding contract an individual signs to enlist in the U.S. Armed Forces? → DD Form 4 (Enlistment/Reenlistment Document)
16. What is the minimum AFQT score for Category IIIB? → 31
17. What is the minimum AFQT score required to enlist in the U.S. Army for non-prior service applicants with a high school diploma? → 31
18. How long does THC (marijuana) typically remain detectable in urine after occasional use? → Up to 3 days for occasional use, up to 30 days for heavy chronic use
19. A score at the 50th percentile on the AFQT means an applicant performed better than what percentage of the reference group? → 50%
20. Which ASVAB subtest score is NOT used in the AFQT calculation? → Electronics Information
21. What should you do to avoid failing the MEPS drug test? → Abstain from drug use for 1-2 months and drink plenty of water
22. What happens if an applicant refuses to submit a urine specimen at MEPS? → Refusal is treated as a positive test result and typically results in disqualification
23. Which of the following would typically NOT require a moral waiver for military enlistment? → A single parking ticket
24. What are the consequences of a positive MEPS drug test? → Denial of enlistment and forfeiture of any signing bonuses
25. What types of changes must a DEP member report to their recruiter after enlisting? → Any changes in medical, legal, or personal status
26. What drugs are typically included in the standard military urine drug panel at MEPS? → Marijuana, cocaine, amphetamines, opiates, and PCP
27. What formal ceremony occurs when a recruit officially enlists into the DEP at MEPS? → The Oath of Enlistment
28. Which military branch has historically had the most restrictive moral waiver policy? → Air Force
29. What is the maximum possible AFQT score? → 99
30. What is the purpose of branch-specific ASVAB composite scores, separate from the AFQT? → To assign recruits to specific jobs or ratings