Personalized ASVAB Test Prep in Newport News, VA


Scoring well on the ASVAB isn’t just about getting into the military—it’s about opening doors to better career tracks, higher enlistment bonuses, and specialized positions. At McGrath Educational Services, we help aspiring service members gain the knowledge, confidence, and strategy to improve their ASVAB scores and secure the futures they deserve.


Whether you’ve already taken the ASVAB and want to retest or you’re starting from scratch, we’ll build a customized prep plan around your goals, learning style, and timeline. With over 25 years of teaching experience, Jim McGrath brings a proven track record of helping students dramatically raise their scores—sometimes by more than 20 points.

Why the ASVAB Matters More Than You Think


The Armed Services Vocational Aptitude Battery (ASVAB) doesn’t just determine if you qualify for military service—it shapes your entire career path. Your AFQT (Armed Forces Qualification Test) score can determine:

Which branches of the military you qualify for

Eligibility for enlistment bonuses

Access to specific MOS (Military Occupational Specialties)

Career and training opportunities within the armed forces

A higher score expands your choices. A lower score can limit or delay your path entirely.


That’s why targeted preparation isn’t just helpful—it’s essential.

What Our ASVAB Tutoring Covers


We focus on the core areas that make the biggest impact on your ASVAB score:

Math and Arithmetic Reasoning

Fractions, decimals, and percentages

Algebraic equations and inequalities

Word problems and real-world applications

Time-saving problem-solving techniques

Word Knowledge and Paragraph Comprehension

Vocabulary building using ASVAB-style words

Context clues and language structure

Reading strategies for technical passages

Sentence completion and inference questions

General Science and Technical Areas

For students interested in more advanced roles, we offer support in

Physical and biological sciences

Mechanical comprehension

Electronics information

Auto and shop basics

Tutoring sessions are customized to focus on your weakest areas, allowing you to improve where it matters most while reinforcing your strengths.

What Makes Our ASVAB Prep Different


Proven Results, Not Guesswork

This isn’t a generic workbook or self-paced course. It’s real tutoring, delivered by an experienced educator who understands not only the content but also how to teach it.

Students regularly improve by 5-20 points on retests.

Many go from non-qualifying scores to exceeding branch minimums.

Others unlock new MOS options and bonuses they didn’t think possible.

Our approach blends clear instruction, test-taking strategies, and confidence-building—all in a one-on-one format that works.

Designed for Military-Bound Students in Hampton Roads

The Virginia Peninsula has a strong military presence, with bases nearby in Newport News, Hampton, and Norfolk. Whether you're preparing for basic training or looking to qualify for a specific military job, we understand the stakes—and the standard.

Success Story Snapshot


A student came to McGrath Educational Services after scoring a 27 on his first ASVAB attempt—well below the qualifying threshold. He had just two months before needing to retake the exam. Through twice-weekly sessions focusing on math, vocabulary, and test strategy, he scored a 53 on his second attempt—qualifying not only for enlistment but also for a bonus program in the U.S. Navy.


That’s the kind of transformation we strive for.

Is ASVAB Prep Right for You?


This service is ideal for:

First-time test takers aiming to score high on the first try

Students who previously scored too low to enlist

Recruits trying to qualify for a preferred branch or MOS

Veterans retesting for career advancement

Anyone struggling with test anxiety or specific sections of the exam

Whether you’re entering the Army, Navy, Air Force, Marines, or Coast Guard, we’ll help you approach the ASVAB with confidence.

Frequently Asked Questions


  • How Many Sessions Will I Need?

    It depends on your current score level and goal. Some students meet weekly for several months, while others meet more intensively in the weeks leading up to their test.

  • Do You Offer Online ASVAB Tutoring?

    Yes. We provide virtual tutoring for students across the Virginia Peninsula and beyond, using tools that make learning interactive and effective.

  • Will You Give Me Practice Tests?

    Absolutely. We incorporate ASVAB-style practice questions and mock tests into your plan so you can build familiarity and improve speed.

  • What if I’m Bad at Math or Reading?

    That’s exactly why we’re here. Many of our students come in feeling discouraged—but with the right instruction, they walk away confident and capable.

Start Preparing for Your Military Future Today


Whether you're trying to raise your score or qualify for a career-changing opportunity, expert ASVAB prep can make the difference. At McGrath Educational Services, we’re committed to helping you achieve the results you need for the future you want.

Call (757) 813-3809 today to schedule your free ASVAB consultation.

Let’s work together to open every door the military has to offer.