The Complete Guide to ACFT Standards: Master the Army Combat Fitness Test

Introduction: Understanding the Army Combat Fitness Test

The Army Combat Fitness Test (ACFT) represents the most significant transformation in United States Army physical readiness training in over four decades. Implemented in 2020 to replace the legacy Army Physical Fitness Test (APFT) , this comprehensive six-event assessment measures functional fitness directly correlated with combat readiness. Unlike its predecessor, which primarily evaluated cardiovascular endurance and muscular endurance through push-ups, sit-ups, and a two-mile run, the ACFT standards demand whole-body strength, power, speed, agility, coordination, and stamina—attributes essential for soldiers operating in complex tactical environments.

The new Army fitness test was developed through extensive research involving over 10,000 soldiers across all military occupational specialties, ensuring it accurately reflects the physical demands of modern warfare. From lifting heavy ammunition to casualty evacuation and rapid tactical movements, the ACFT evaluates whether soldiers possess the functional strength required for combat effectiveness. This comprehensive guide provides everything you need to understand ACFT scoring, master proper exercise techniques, utilize our ACFT standards calculator, and achieve your maximum score on test day.

With Army ACFT standards continuously evolving based on data analysis and soldier feedback—including the recent 2023-2024 scoring adjustments—staying informed represents a critical component of career success for active duty, National Guard, and Army Reserve personnel. Whether you’re preparing for your first record test or seeking to maximize your score for promotion points, this resource provides authoritative, up-to-date information on every aspect of the Army Combat Fitness Test.

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Army Combat Fitness Test: Short Overview of ACFT Standards Chart

The ACFT standards chart serves as the official scoring reference that converts raw performance on each of the six events into a standardized point value ranging from 60 to 100 points per event. Unlike the pass/fail mentality of the previous test, the Army ACFT score chart emphasizes continuous improvement with higher performance translating directly to increased total scores, promotion points, and career opportunities.

The Six Events of the ACFT

1. Three-Repetition Maximum Deadlift (MDL)

The deadlift event assesses muscular strength and proper lifting mechanics essential for combat tasks including ammunition loading, equipment movement, and casualty handling. Soldiers perform three repetitions at their maximum weight using a hex bar, which distributes load more safely than a straight bar. The minimum standard begins at 140 pounds (60 points), with maximum scoring requiring 340 pounds (100 points).

Key specifications:

• Equipment: Hex bar, Olympic weight plates
• Attempts: Three successful repetitions required
• Scoring: Based on weight lifted (140-340 pounds)
• Primary muscles: Hamstrings, glutes, lower back, quadriceps

2. Standing Power Throw (SPT)

The standing power throw evaluates explosive power through an overhead backward toss of a 10-pound medicine ball. This movement pattern simulates combat tasks such as throwing equipment over obstacles, lifting casualties into vehicles, and generating power from the lower body. Soldiers complete two attempts, with the better throw measured in feet and inches.

Key specifications:

• Equipment: 10-pound medicine ball
• Attempts: Two throws, best score recorded
• Scoring: Distance thrown (4.5-12.5+ meters)
• Primary muscles: Full body power chain, legs, core, shoulders

3. Hand-Release Push-Up (HRPU)

The hand-release push-up replaces the traditional APFT push-up with a more demanding variation requiring full range of motion and proper form. Soldiers lower their chest to the ground, release hands completely, then push back up—eliminating momentum and requiring genuine muscular strength rather than endurance alone. This event correlates strongly with upper body pushing strength needed for fighting positions, vehicle egress, and grappling.

Key specifications:

• Equipment: None (field or mat)
• Attempts: Maximum repetitions in two minutes
• Scoring: Total repetitions (10-60+)
• Form requirement: Full hand release at bottom position

4. Sprint-Drag-Carry (SDC)

The sprint-drag-carry represents the ACFT’s most metabolically demanding event, combining five 50-meter shuttles with four distinct tasks. Soldiers sprint, drag a 90-pound sled, perform lateral movement, carry two 40-pound kettlebells, and sprint again—all within a continuous 250-meter course. This event replicates the chaotic, high-intensity demands of direct combat engagements requiring rapid movement under load.

Key specifications:

• Equipment: 90-pound sled, two 40-pound kettlebells
• Course: Five 50-meter shuttles (250 meters total)
• Scoring: Total time (2:30-1:33 minutes)
• Components: Sprint, drag, lateral movement, carry, sprint

5. Plank (PLK)

The plank event replaces sit-ups as the core endurance assessment, emphasizing functional trunk stability rather than repetitive spinal flexion. This change reflects sports medicine research identifying planks as safer and more transferable to combat tasks requiring sustained core bracing under load, such as carrying equipment or maintaining shooting positions.

Key specifications:

• Equipment: Mat or field surface
• Attempts: Single maximal hold
• Scoring: Time held (1:00-4:20 minutes)
• Form requirement: Straight body line, hips raised

6. Two-Mile Run (2MR)

The two-mile run remains the only cardiovascular endurance event carried over from the APFT, though scoring standards have adjusted to reflect the ACFT’s overall physical demands. This event evaluates aerobic capacity and recovery ability—essential for operational movements, patrols, and sustained combat operations.

Key specifications:

• Equipment: Proper running shoes, measured course
• Attempts: Single maximal effort
• Scoring: Total time (21:00-13:30 minutes)
• Course: Flat, accurately measured 2-mile route

Current ACFT Scoring Categories

The ACFT standards establish three distinct performance categories based on age and gender:

Category 1: Heavy (Combat Arms)

Applies to soldiers in combat arms military occupational specialties including infantry, armor, field artillery, combat engineers, and special operations forces. These soldiers require the highest level of physical readiness for direct ground combat roles.

MOS examples: 11B Infantry, 12B Combat Engineer, 13F Fire Support Specialist, 19D Cavalry Scout

Category 2: Significant (Combat Support)

Applies to soldiers in combat support roles who face significant physical demands but not continuous direct combat. These soldiers must meet robust standards appropriate for their operational requirements.

MOS examples: 25U Signal Support Specialist, 35F Intelligence Analyst, 88M Motor Transport Operator, 92F Petroleum Supply Specialist

Category 3: Moderate (Combat Service Support)

Applies to soldiers in combat service support functions with moderate physical demands. These standards remain challenging while acknowledging different occupational physical requirements.

MOS examples: 42A Human Resources Specialist, 68W Combat Medic, 92Y Supply Sergeant, 36B Financial Management Technician

Recent Updates to ACFT Standards

October 2023 marked significant revisions to ACFT scoring based on comprehensive data analysis from over 600,000 test events:

1. Lower initial minimums: Category 3 soldiers now begin scoring at 60 points with reduced raw performance requirements
2. Graduated progression: Tiered standards create achievable entry points with clear advancement pathways
3. Age and gender neutral: Events remain identical for all soldiers, with scoring adjusted for fairness
4. MOS-based differentiation: Standards now better reflect actual occupational physical demands

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What Are the ACFT Standards? Comprehensive Breakdown

Understanding ACFT passing scores and ACFT maximum scores requires familiarity with the complete scoring system. Each event converts raw performance to a point value between 60 and 100, with 60 points representing the minimum passing threshold for each event. Soldiers must achieve at least 60 points on every event to pass the overall test, with total scores ranging from 360 to 600 points.

Event 1: Maximum Deadlift Standards

Equipment specifications:

• Hex bar: Must be standard Army-issue trap bar
• Weights: Olympic plates measured in pounds
• Platform: Level, non-slip surface

Raw performance to point conversion:

Points	Category 1	Category 2	Category 3
100	340 lbs	340 lbs	340 lbs
90	300 lbs	290 lbs	280 lbs
80	260 lbs	240 lbs	220 lbs
70	210 lbs	190 lbs	170 lbs
60	140 lbs	140 lbs	140 lbs

Common deficiencies:

• Grip failure: Forearm endurance insufficient
• Back rounding: Poor core bracing technique
• Lockout incompletion: Hips not fully extended

Training recommendations:

• Progressive overload: Increase weight 5-10 pounds weekly
• Accessory work: Farmer’s carries, rack pulls, Romanian deadlifts
• Frequency: 1-2 sessions weekly with proper recovery

Event 2: Standing Power Throw Standards

Equipment specifications:

• Medicine ball: Exactly 10 pounds, inflated to standard pressure
• Surface: Level throwing area with clear measurement
• Marking: Tape measure extending from throw line

Raw performance to point conversion:

Points	Distance	Performance Level
100	12.5+ meters	Elite explosive power
90	11.0-12.4 meters	Excellent
80	9.5-10.9 meters	Good
70	7.5-9.4 meters	Satisfactory
60	4.5-7.4 meters	Minimum standard

Technique elements:

• Dip: Countermovement before throw
• Drive: Aggressive triple extension
• Release: Optimal 45-degree trajectory

Common errors:

• Foot fault: Stepping on or over line
• Poor rhythm: Insufficient countermovement
• Arm-dependent: Using arms without leg drive

Training drills:

• Med ball slams: Develop explosive power
• Box jumps: Improve lower body explosiveness
• Overhead throws: Practice specific movement pattern

Event 3: Hand-Release Push-Up Standards

Form requirements:

• Starting position: Front leaning rest, arms fully extended
• Lowering phase: Chest contacts ground
• Release phase: Hands completely leave ground, arms extended sideways
• Return phase: Hands reposition, press to full extension

Raw performance to point conversion:

Points	Category 1	Category 2	Category 3
100	60+ reps	60+ reps	60+ reps
90	50-59 reps	45-59 reps	40-59 reps
80	40-49 reps	35-44 reps	30-39 reps
70	30-39 reps	25-34 reps	20-29 reps
60	10-29 reps	10-24 reps	10-19 reps

Critical technique points:

• Chest contact: Must touch ground each repetition
• Hand release: Visible separation from ground
• Full lockout: Arms straight at top position
• Body position: Straight line from shoulders to heels

Training strategies:

• Volume accumulation: Grease the groove approach
• Pacing strategy: Steady rhythm, no early burnout
• Recovery position: Quick hand replacement technique

Event 4: Sprint-Drag-Carry Standards

Course configuration:

• 25-meter lanes: Clearly marked start, turn, finish lines
• Sled weight: 90 pounds verified before test
• Kettlebell weight: Two 40-pound kettlebells
• Surface: Uniform running surface (grass or track)

Segment breakdown:

1. 50-meter sprint: Start to turn and back
2. 50-meter drag: Pull sled backward to turn and return
3. 50-meter lateral movement: Shuttle between lines
4. 50-meter carry: Two kettlebells, turn and return
5. 50-meter sprint: Final sprint to finish

Raw performance to point conversion:

Points	Category 1	Category 2	Category 3
100	≤1:33	≤1:40	≤1:48
90	1:34-1:42	1:41-1:49	1:49-1:57
80	1:43-1:51	1:50-1:58	1:58-2:06
70	1:52-2:08	1:59-2:15	2:07-2:22
60	2:09-2:30	2:16-2:30	2:23-2:30

Performance factors:

• Grip endurance: Critical for drag and carry segments
• Transition speed: Quick turns between segments
• Pacing: All-out sprint early, manage fatigue
• Footwear: Proper traction for surface conditions

Event-specific training:

• Sled drags: Progressive overload, various surfaces
• Farmer’s carries: Grip strength endurance
• Interval sprinting: Repeated high-intensity efforts

Event 5: Plank Standards

Form requirements:

• Body position: Supported on forearms and toes
• Back position: Straight, no sagging or hip elevation
• Elbow placement: Directly beneath shoulders
• Duration: Time held with proper form

Raw performance to point conversion:

Points	Time (All Categories)
100	4:20+
90	3:50-4:19
80	3:20-3:49
70	2:30-3:19
60	1:00-2:29

Form disqualifications:

• Hip elevation: Buttocks raised above shoulder plane
• Hip sagging: Lower back drops below elbow plane
• Knee contact: Knees touching ground during hold
• Insufficient duration: Failure to maintain position

Training progression:

• Timed holds: Gradually increase duration
• Variations: Side planks, weighted planks
• Core complexes: Multiple plank variations combined

Event 6: Two-Mile Run Standards

Course specifications:

• Distance: Exactly 2 miles (3,520 yards, 3,218 meters)
• Terrain: Level, accurately measured course
• Marking: Clear start, halfway, finish points
• Timing: Precision timing device

Raw performance to point conversion:

Points	Category 1	Category 2	Category 3
100	≤13:30	≤14:30	≤15:30
90	13:31-14:30	14:31-15:30	15:31-16:30
80	14:31-15:30	15:31-16:30	16:31-17:30
70	15:31-17:00	16:31-18:00	17:31-19:00
60	17:01-21:00	18:01-21:00	19:01-21:00

Performance factors:

• Pacing strategy: Even effort distribution
• Recovery capacity: How well soldier recovers from SDC
• Aerobic base: Consistent training volume
• Mental toughness: Pain tolerance and focus

Training methodology:

• Long slow distance: Build aerobic foundation
• Tempo runs: Threshold pace development
• Interval training: Speed and VO2 max improvement
• Recovery runs: Active recovery between intense sessions

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Proper Techniques for the Army ACFT Chart

Mastering proper ACFT form represents the single most effective strategy for maximizing scores and preventing injury. Each event has specific technique requirements that directly impact both performance and scoring validity. Understanding these biomechanical principles transforms average performances into exceptional results.

Maximum Deadlift Technique Optimization

Setup phase:

• Bar position: Centered over mid-foot, shins touching bar
• Grip width: Slightly wider than shoulder width
• Hand placement: Palms facing body, alternating grip optional
• Stance width: Feet hip-width, slightly turned out

Execution phase:

• Hip hinge: Push hips back while maintaining flat back
• Knee bend: Slight flexion, not full squat
• Chest position: Proud, shoulders pulled back
• Grip: Crush grip throughout entire movement

Lockout phase:

• Hip drive: Push hips forward, squeeze glutes
• Shoulder position: Pull shoulders back, chest forward
• Knee extension: Complete but not hyperextended
• Hold position: Stable for one second at completion

Breathing pattern:

• Before lift: Deep breath, brace core
• During lift: Hold breath (Valsalva maneuver)
• After repetition: Controlled exhale
• Between reps: Two-three breaths maximum

Standing Power Throw Technique

Preparation position:

• Feet placement: Shoulder-width, toes at throwing line
• Ball position: Held at waist level with both hands
• Body alignment: Tall posture, eyes forward
• Grip: Fingertips underneath ball

Countermovement:

• Dip depth: Quarter to half squat
• Hip descent: Push hips back, knees over toes
• Arm position: Ball moves toward thighs
• Timing: Smooth, rhythmic downward movement

Drive phase:

• Triple extension: Ankles, knees, hips extend explosively
• Arm action: Ball accelerates upward and backward
• Head position: Maintain neutral cervical spine
• Release point: Ball leaves hands at optimal angle

Release and follow-through:

• Release angle: Approximately 45 degrees
• Finger action: Last contact with fingertips
• Follow-through: Arms continue upward arc
• Balance: Maintain feet behind line

Common technical errors:

• Premature release: Ball leaves before full extension
• Arm dominance: Insufficient leg drive
• Poor trajectory: Too high or too low angle
• Foot fault: Stepping on or over line

Hand-Release Push-Up Precision

Starting position:

• Hand placement: Slightly wider than shoulder width
• Finger orientation: Forward or slightly outward
• Elbow position: Slight external rotation
• Body alignment: Straight from shoulders to heels

Descent phase:

• Controlled lowering: 2-3 second descent
• Chest contact: Must touch ground each repetition
• Elbow angle: 45 degrees from body
• Breathing: Inhale during descent

Release phase:

• Hand movement: Slide laterally away from body
• Arm extension: Extend arms sideways
• Visibility: Hands clearly visible off ground
• Duration: Brief but deliberate separation

Return and lockout:

• Hand replacement: Return to original position
• Push phase: Explosive upward movement
• Elbow lockout: Full extension at top
• Repetition count: Each complete sequence equals one

Pacing strategy:

• First minute: Steady, sustainable rhythm
• Second minute: Maintain form, minimize rest
• Fatigue management: Quick shake-outs at release
• Breathing pattern: Exhale on exertion, inhale on release

Sprint-Drag-Carry Technical Execution

Sprint segments:

• Start position: Three-point stance or standing start
• Acceleration: Explosive first 10 meters
• Turn technique: Drop shoulder, plant foot
• Finish: Lean through finish line

Drag segment:

• Sled attachment: Strap over shoulder, across chest
• Body position: Lean forward 45 degrees
• Foot drive: Powerful backward pushing motion
• Hand position: Grip strap with both hands

Lateral movement segment:

• Shuttle position: Athletic stance, low center of gravity
• Footwork: Quick shuffle, no crossing feet
• Touch requirement: Hand must touch line
• Change direction: Plant outside foot, push off

Carry segment:

• Kettlebell grip: Locked arms, handles firmly grasped
• Posture: Upright, avoid leaning back
• Gait: Quick controlled steps
• Turn technique: Pivot without setting down bells

Transition efficiency:

• Sprint to drag: Immediate strap engagement
• Drag to lateral: Drop strap, move to shuttle line
• Lateral to carry: Pick up bells without delay
• Carry to sprint: Drop bells, explosive acceleration

Plank Form Excellence

Setup position:

• Elbow placement: Directly beneath shoulders
• Forearm orientation: Parallel to body
• Hand position: Palms down or fists
• Feet position: Hip-width, toes curled under

Body alignment:

• Head: Neutral, looking at floor
• Shoulders: Away from ears
• Back: Flat, not rounded or arched
• Hips: Level with shoulders and heels

Muscular engagement:

• Abdominal brace: Draw navel toward spine
• Glute squeeze: Activate throughout hold
• Quadriceps engagement: Legs actively straight
• Breathing: Steady, controlled rhythm

Fatigue management:

• Micro-adjustments: Subtle weight shifts
• Mental focus: Count seconds, break into segments
• Body awareness: Recognize form breakdown early
• Pain tolerance: Distraction techniques

Two-Mile Run Technique

Start phase:

• Positioning: Based on predicted finish time
• First 400 meters: Controlled, not all-out
• Settling in: Establish race pace by half mile
• Breathing: Establish rhythm immediately

Mid-race phase:

• Pacing: Even splits, avoid surges
• Form focus: Relaxed shoulders, quick cadence
• Hydration: If needed, small sips
• Mental engagement: Focus on catchable runners

Finish phase:

• Last 400 meters: Gradual acceleration
• Last 100 meters: All-out sprint
• Lean: Shoulders through finish line
• Recovery: Keep moving after finish

Cadence and stride:

• Step rate: 170-190 steps per minute
• Stride length: Natural, not overstrided
• Arm drive: 90-degree angle, shoulder to hip
• Foot strike: Mid-foot, not heel or toe

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ACFT Standards Calculator: How to Use Our Scoring Tool

Our interactive ACFT standards calculator transforms complex scoring tables into instant, accurate performance feedback. Whether you’re preparing for a diagnostic test, tracking training progress, or projecting promotion points, this tool provides immediate conversion of raw performance to ACFT scores across all six events and three occupational categories.

Getting Started with the Calculator

Step 1: Select Your Soldier Profile

• Demographic information: Age (18-62+ years)
• Military Occupational Specialty: Determines scoring category
• Gender: For appropriate scoring table application
• Component: Active, Reserve, or National Guard

Step 2: Enter Raw Performance Data

• Maximum Deadlift: Weight lifted in pounds
• Standing Power Throw: Distance in feet/inches or meters
• Hand-Release Push-Ups: Total repetitions completed
• Sprint-Drag-Carry: Total time in minutes:seconds
• Plank: Hold time in minutes:seconds
• Two-Mile Run: Total time in minutes:seconds

Step 3: Instant Scoring Calculation

• Event scores: 60-100 points per event
• Total score: Sum of all six events (360-600)
• Pass/fail status: Minimum 60 points per event required
• Category comparison: Performance against all three MOS categories

Step 4: Performance Analysis

• Strengths identification: Events exceeding 90 points
• Development areas: Events below 70 points
• Improvement projections: Required performance for target scores
• Promotion point impact: Estimated contribution to total points

Advanced Calculator Features

Scenario comparison mode:

• Compare current performance against goal scores
• Model impact of improving specific events
• Visualize trade-offs between different training focuses
• Project timeline to achieve target total score

Historical tracking:

• Store multiple test dates and scores
• Generate progress charts and trend lines
• Identify improvement rates per event
• Set data-driven training goals

MOS-specific optimization:

• Custom recommendations based on occupational category
• Event weighting aligned with job requirements
• Minimum thresholds specific to MOS
• Competitive benchmarks for advancement

Training prescription integration:

• Event-specific workout recommendations
• Weekly training volume suggestions
• Recovery period guidance
• Injury prevention protocols

Practical Applications

For individual soldiers:

• Diagnostic assessment: Identify baseline performance
• Progress tracking: Monitor training effectiveness
• Goal setting: Establish specific, measurable targets
• Promotion preparation: Maximize total score potential

For unit leaders:

• Collective assessment: Analyze unit-wide performance
• Program evaluation: Measure training intervention effectiveness
• Resource allocation: Identify events requiring emphasis
• Standardization: Ensure consistent scoring application

For ACFT graders:

• Scoring verification: Cross-reference manual calculations
• Training tool: Demonstrate scoring to candidates
• Quality assurance: Maintain scoring consistency
• Record keeping: Document official test results

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ACFT Scorings in Practice: Real-World Application

Understanding how ACFT scoring translates to real career outcomes provides crucial motivation and context for training efforts. The ACFT directly impacts promotion eligibility, professional military education selection, and career longevity in ways that demand serious preparation.

Minimum Standards: The 60-Point Threshold

Career implications of minimum passing scores:

Soldiers achieving exactly 60 points on each event total 360 points—the absolute minimum for passing. While this standard avoids immediate adverse action, it offers no competitive advantage:

• Promotion point deficiency: Significantly fewer points than peers
• School selection disadvantage: Less competitive for professional military education
• Leadership perception: May indicate insufficient physical readiness
• Career stagnation: Limited advancement potential

Performance profile of minimum standard soldiers:

• Deadlift: 140 pounds (one plate per side)
• Power throw: 4.5 meters (minimal distance)
• HRPU: 10 repetitions (barely passing)
• SDC: 2:30 (maximum allowable time)
• Plank: 1:00 (minimum hold)
• Two-mile: 21:00 (slow jogging pace)

Competitive Standards: The 450-500 Point Range

Career advantages of competitive scores:

Soldiers scoring 75-85 points per event (450-500 total) position themselves advantageously for:

• Promotion boards: Strong recommendation potential
• Assignment preferences: More desirable duty stations
• Special schools: Airborne, Air Assault, Ranger assessment
• Leadership positions: Squad leader, platoon sergeant consideration

Performance profile of competitive soldiers:

• Deadlift: 220-260 pounds
• Power throw: 9.5-11.0 meters
• HRPU: 35-45 repetitions
• SDC: 1:58-1:51
• Plank: 3:20-3:50
• Two-mile: 16:30-15:30

Excellence Standards: The 540-600 Point Range

Career opportunities with exceptional scores:

Soldiers achieving 90+ points per event (540-600 total) demonstrate elite physical readiness:

• Soldier of the Year competitions: Highly competitive
• Hall of Fame induction: Recognition programs
• Special operations assessment: SOF candidate attraction
• Career-broadening assignments: Drill sergeant, recruiter
• Command recognition: Awards, accolades, visibility

Performance profile of excellence soldiers:

• Deadlift: 300-340 pounds
• Power throw: 11.0-12.5+ meters
• HRPU: 50-60+ repetitions
• SDC: 1:42-1:33
• Plank: 3:50-4:20+
• Two-mile: 14:30-13:30

Age-Graded Scoring Adjustments

Scoring fairness across age groups:

ACFT scoring incorporates age-based adjustments ensuring equitable assessment:

Age group categories:

• 18-29: Baseline scoring standards
• 30-39: Slight adjustment (approximately 3-5%)
• 40-49: Moderate adjustment (approximately 8-12%)
• 50-59: Significant adjustment (approximately 15-20%)
• 60+: Maximum adjustment (approximately 25-30%)

Practical example – Two-mile run, Category 1:

• Age 25: 100 points at 13:30
• Age 45: 100 points at 14:15
• Age 55: 100 points at 15:30

Gender-Neutral Standards Implementation

Fairness and readiness balance:

The ACFT maintains identical events and scoring scales for all soldiers while using different raw performance requirements to achieve equivalent points. This approach:

• Maintains combat readiness: Ensures all soldiers meet minimum performance thresholds
• Eliminates gender bias: Creates level playing field for advancement
• Recognizes physiological differences: Fair conversion to common scoring scale
• Preserves standards: No dilution of combat effectiveness requirements

Promotion Points Impact

ACFT contribution to promotion scores:

For promotion to Sergeant and Staff Sergeant, ACFT scores contribute directly:

Sergeant promotion (E-4 to E-5):

• 540+ points: Maximum promotion points
• 450-539: Moderate points
• 360-449: Minimum points
• Below 360: Non-promotable

Staff Sergeant promotion (E-5 to E-6):

• Higher point thresholds
• Longer scoring windows
• Greater differentiation between score tiers

Professional Military Education Selection

School attendance prerequisites:

Many Army schools require specific ACFT scores:

• Airborne School: 70+ points per event
• Air Assault School: 70+ points per event, 450+ total
• Ranger School: 80+ points per event, 500+ total
• Pathfinder: 70+ points per event
• Drill Sergeant School: Competitive scores required

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FAQs: Common Questions About ACFT Standards

1. What is the minimum passing score for the ACFT?

Soldiers must achieve at least 60 points on each of the six events. The total score must be at least 360 points. Failure to achieve 60 points on any single event results in overall test failure regardless of other event scores.

2. How often do soldiers take the ACFT?

Active duty soldiers typically complete the ACFT two times per year as part of the Army Physical Readiness Program. Reserve and National Guard soldiers test annually during battle assembly periods.

3. What happens if I fail an event?

Soldiers who fail any event enter the remediation program and have 90 days to improve performance. A second consecutive failure may initiate administrative separation proceedings.

4. Are there different standards for different MOS?

Yes, the Army maintains three scoring categories aligned with occupational physical demands: Heavy (combat arms), Significant (combat support), and Moderate (combat service support).

5. How do I prepare for the Sprint-Drag-Carry?

Effective SDC preparation includes sled drag training, farmer’s carry practice, and high-intensity interval running. Practice transitions between segments to reduce overall time.

6. What equipment is required for the ACFT?

Standard ACFT equipment includes: hex bar and Olympic plates, 10-pound medicine ball, 90-pound drag sled, two 40-pound kettlebells, stopwatch, and accurately measured 2-mile course.

7. Can I use an alternate event for medical reasons?

Soldiers with permanent physical limitations may be eligible for alternate events through the permanent profile process. Temporary conditions receive temporary profiles until resolved.

8. How are ACFT scores recorded?

Scores are recorded in the Digital Training Management System (DTMS) and become part of the soldier’s official training record. They remain in the system permanently for career tracking.

9. Do I need to warm up before the ACFT?

Proper dynamic warm-up is essential for both performance and injury prevention. Units should provide at least 30 minutes of structured warm-up activities before testing begins.

10. What’s the difference between diagnostic and record tests?

Diagnostic tests do not count toward official records and serve training purposes. Record tests are officially documented and used for promotion, schools, and career management.

11. How do I improve my plank time?

Effective plank training includes timed holds, progressive overload, and core stability exercises. Practice multiple sets with shorter rest periods to build endurance.

12. Why did the Army change from push-ups to hand-release push-ups?

The hand-release push-up eliminates momentum-based repetitions and requires genuine muscular strength. It better correlates with combat tasks requiring full range pushing motion.

13. Can I retake the ACFT if I don’t like my score?

Soldiers may request retesting through their chain of command, but unit testing schedules and resource availability determine feasibility. Priority typically goes to soldiers who failed previously.

14. How does the ACFT affect my promotion?

ACFT scores contribute directly to promotion point calculations. Higher scores earn more points, creating competitive advantage for advancement to Sergeant and Staff Sergeant.

15. What should I eat before the ACFT?

Pre-test nutrition should emphasize complex carbohydrates for sustained energy, moderate protein, and low fat/fiber to minimize digestive issues. Eat 2-3 hours before testing.

16. Are there height and weight standards with the ACFT?

Yes, soldiers must also meet Army Body Composition Program (ABCP) standards. ACFT failure combined with ABCP failure accelerates administrative separation procedures.

17. How do I become an ACFT grader?

Soldiers must complete ACFT grader certification through their installation’s physical readiness program. Certification requires demonstrated proficiency in event administration and scoring.

18. What’s the hardest ACFT event?

Most soldiers report the Sprint-Drag-Carry (SDC) as the most physically demanding event due to its combined demands of sprint speed, strength, grip endurance, and metabolic conditioning.

19. Can I wear headphones during the run?

No, headphones, earbuds, or other audio devices are prohibited during official ACFT administration. Soldiers must be able to hear safety instructions and time calls.

20. How accurate is the ACFT at predicting combat readiness?

The ACFT was validated through extensive scientific research correlating test performance with actual combat task execution. Higher ACFT scores strongly predict better performance on simulated combat tasks.

Final Assessment: The Army Combat Fitness Test represents a fundamental shift in how the United States Army evaluates and develops soldier physical readiness. By emphasizing functional strength, power, and endurance over traditional calisthenics, the ACFT better prepares soldiers for the physical demands of modern combat. Understanding the ACFT scoring system, mastering proper event techniques, and utilizing our ACFT standards calculator provides the foundation for success on test day and throughout your military career. Whether you’re a junior soldier striving to meet minimum standards or a senior leader seeking maximum performance, the principles outlined in this comprehensive guide will help you achieve your ACFT goals and maintain the physical readiness America’s Army demands.