When I first heard about the Army Combat Fitness Test replacing the old APFT, I’ll admit I was confused about the scoring system. The six events, different standards, and point calculations seemed overwhelming. After going through it myself and helping dozens of soldiers prepare, I’ve learned the ins and outs of ACFT scoring.
Let me break down everything you need to know about calculating your ACFT score, including the mistakes most people make and how to avoid them.
Understanding the ACFT Basics
The Army rolled out the ACFT to better measure real combat readiness. Unlike the old push-up, sit-up, and run format, this test actually simulates battlefield movements. You’re lifting, throwing, sprinting, and carrying—activities you’d actually do in combat situations.
Here’s what makes the ACFT different: it’s six separate events, each scored individually, and you need to pass every single one. There’s no “making up” for a weak event with a strong one.
The Six ACFT Events
- Three-Repetition Maximum Deadlift (MDL) – Tests your raw strength
- Standing Power Throw (SPT) – Measures explosive power
- Hand-Release Push-Ups (HRP) – Upper body endurance
- Sprint-Drag-Carry (SDC) – The real gut-check event
- Plank (PLK) – Core stability test
- Two-Mile Run (2MR) – Cardiovascular endurance
ACFT Scoring System Explained
Each event can earn you between 60 and 100 points. Think of 60 as the baseline—that’s the minimum standard to pass. Anything below 60 on even one event means you’ve failed the entire test, regardless of how well you did on the others.
Maximum possible score: 600 points (100 points × 6 events) Minimum passing score: 360 points total, with at least 60 points per event
The scoring isn’t linear either. Going from 60 to 70 points might only require a small improvement, but jumping from 90 to 100 often demands significantly better performance.
Breaking Down Each Event’s Scoring
1. Maximum Deadlift (MDL)
You’ll lift a hex bar loaded with weights, performing three proper repetitions. The weight range typically starts at 140 pounds and goes up to 340 pounds for maximum points.
What I’ve seen: Most male soldiers who train regularly hit somewhere between 240-280 pounds. Female soldiers often score well in the 180-220 range. The key isn’t just strength—it’s technique. I’ve watched people fail lighter weights due to poor form.
Scoring example:
- 140 lbs = 60 points (minimum)
- 200 lbs = approximately 72 points
- 280 lbs = approximately 92 points
- 340 lbs = 100 points (maximum)
2. Standing Power Throw (SPT)
You throw a 10-pound medicine ball backward and overhead as far as possible. Distance is measured in meters, and you get two attempts (the better one counts).
This event catches people off guard. It’s not about arm strength—it’s about generating power through your entire body. Hip drive and timing matter more than muscle.
Typical distances:
- 4.5 meters = minimum passing
- 8.0 meters = solid average
- 12.5+ meters = excellent score
3. Hand-Release Push-Ups (HRP)
Unlike regular push-ups, you must lower your chest completely to the ground and lift your hands briefly before pushing back up. You have two minutes to complete as many as possible.
The hand release requirement eliminates cheating, but it also tires you out faster. I usually see soldiers hit a wall around 35-40 reps when they’re not prepared for the extra difficulty.
Typical rep ranges:
- 10 reps = 60 points (minimum)
- 30 reps = approximately 75 points
- 50 reps = approximately 88 points
- 60+ reps = 95-100 points
4. Sprint-Drag-Carry (SDC)
This is where most people struggle. You complete five 50-meter shuttles involving sprinting, sled dragging, lateral movements, and kettlebell carries. It’s brutal.
Time matters here more than anywhere else. Every second counts. I’ve seen soldiers lose 10-15 points just from poor transitions between movements.
Time benchmarks:
- 3:00 minutes = 60 points (minimum standard)
- 2:20 minutes = approximately 78 points
- 1:40 minutes = approximately 95 points
- Under 1:33 = 100 points
5. Plank (PLK)
Hold a proper plank position for as long as possible, up to a maximum time. Your body must remain straight—any sagging or raised hips ends the test.
The plank replaced the leg tuck after many soldiers struggled with that event. While easier for most people, maintaining proper form still requires serious core strength.
Hold times:
- 2:09 minutes = 60 points (minimum)
- 3:00 minutes = approximately 74 points
- 4:00 minutes = approximately 90 points
- 4:20+ minutes = 100 points (varies by age/gender)
6. Two-Mile Run (2MR)
Standard two-mile run on a measured course. Your time determines your score, and this often separates average scores from excellent ones.
Running has always been the Army’s bread and butter. If you can’t run well, you’ll struggle to get a competitive total score even if you crush the strength events.
Time standards (approximate for males 17-21):
- 21:00 minutes = 60 points (minimum)
- 18:00 minutes = approximately 75 points
- 15:00 minutes = approximately 88 points
- 13:30 minutes = 100 points
Note: Standards vary by age group and gender. Check official Army publications for your specific category.
How to Actually Calculate Your Score
Step 1: Record Every Performance Metric
Right after your test, write down exact numbers:
- Deadlift weight (pounds)
- Power throw distance (meters)
- Number of push-ups completed
- SDC time (minutes:seconds)
- Plank hold time (minutes:seconds)
- Run time (minutes:seconds)
Don’t trust your memory. I’ve seen people misremember their times by 15-20 seconds, which can mean a 5-10 point difference.
Step 2: Find Your Age and Gender Category
ACFT standards are adjusted based on:
- Your age group (17-21, 22-26, 27-31, etc.)
- Your gender
- Occasionally, your MOS category
These adjustments can significantly impact your score. A 35-year-old soldier might earn more points for the same run time as a 20-year-old.
Step 3: Look Up Each Event Score
The official ACFT scoring charts convert your raw performance into points. These charts are published by the Army and updated periodically. You’ll need the current version for accurate scoring.
Where to find official charts:
- army.mil (official Army website)
- Your unit’s training office
- Army Training and Doctrine Command publications
Step 4: Add Up Your Total
Once you have six individual scores, add them together:
Example calculation:
- MDL: 260 lbs = 88 points
- SPT: 9.5 meters = 82 points
- HRP: 42 reps = 81 points
- SDC: 2:05 = 85 points
- PLK: 3:30 = 81 points
- 2MR: 16:20 = 82 points
Total: 499 points (well above the 360 minimum)
Step 5: Verify Minimum Standards
Check that you scored at least 60 points on each individual event. Even with a 400+ total, failing one event means failing the entire test.
Common Calculation Mistakes I’ve Seen
Using outdated scoring charts – The Army updates standards occasionally. Using old charts can give you incorrect scores.
Mixing up age categories – A one-year difference can sometimes bump you into a different age bracket with different standards.
Rounding errors – Be precise with times and distances. Rounding 2:05 to 2:00 might seem small, but it affects your score.
Forgetting the alternate plank – Some soldiers still think leg tuck is the standard. Know which version applies to you.
Not accounting for failed reps – If three of your push-ups had bad form, they don’t count. Don’t include them in your total.
The Easiest Way: Use an ACFT Calculator
Look, I’ll be honest. Manual calculation works, but it’s tedious and error-prone. You’re flipping through charts, matching numbers, and hoping you read the right row.
An online ACFT calculator handles this instantly. You enter your performance data, select your age and gender, and get accurate results in seconds. No charts needed, no math errors, no confusion.
Benefits of using a calculator:
- Eliminates human error in chart reading
- Uses current, updated standards automatically
- Calculates all six events simultaneously
- Shows you exactly where you stand
- Helps identify which events need improvement
How to Improve a Low ACFT Score
Scored lower than you wanted? Here’s what actually works based on what I’ve seen help soldiers improve:
For strength events (MDL, SPT):
- Train deadlifts 2-3 times per week
- Focus on progressive overload
- Work on hip and glute strength
- Practice the actual throwing motion
For endurance events (HRP, Plank):
- High-volume push-up training
- Core work 4-5 days per week
- Timed sets to build stamina
- Focus on maintaining form when tired
For SDC:
- Sprint intervals twice weekly
- Practice transitions between movements
- Build grip strength for carries
- Work on lateral movement patterns
For the run:
- Mix long slow distance with speed work
- Don’t neglect tempo runs
- Build weekly mileage gradually
- Include hill work for leg strength
Track your progress every 2-3 weeks. Small improvements in each event add up to significant total score gains.
Age-Adjusted Standards: What You Need to Know
The ACFT recognizes that physical capabilities change with age. A 40-year-old soldier isn’t expected to perform identically to a 20-year-old to earn the same score.
Standard age groups:
- 17-21 years
- 22-26 years
- 27-31 years
- 32-36 years
- 37-41 years
- 42-46 years
- 47-51 years
- 52-56 years
- 57-61 years
- 62+ years
Each group has adjusted minimums and maximums. The difference might seem small, but it can mean 30-50 points on your total score.
Frequently Asked Questions
What’s a competitive ACFT score? Depends on your goals. For most soldiers, 500+ is considered excellent. For competitive schools or positions, you want 540+. The absolute best scores typically land in the 570-590 range.
Can I fail one event and still pass? No. You must score at least 60 points on each of the six events. Your total score doesn’t matter if even one event is below 60.
How often do scoring standards change? The Army adjusts standards periodically based on data and policy changes. Always verify you’re using current charts before calculating scores.
What happens if I dispute my score? Talk to your grader immediately. Most disputes involve counting errors or timing issues. Document your concern and request a retest if necessary.
Final Thoughts
Calculating your ACFT score doesn’t have to be complicated. Understand the six events, know your standards, record accurate performance data, and use reliable tools to convert those numbers into points.
Whether you calculate manually or use an online tool, the most important thing is knowing where you stand and what you need to improve. The ACFT isn’t going anywhere, so getting comfortable with the scoring system now will serve you throughout your military career.
Focus less on the math and more on the training. Your scores will follow your preparation.
Ready to calculate your score accurately? Use our free ACFT calculator tool to get instant results and track your progress over time.
Disclaimer: This guide provides general information about ACFT scoring. Always refer to official Army publications (such as FM 7-22) for authoritative standards and requirements. Scoring standards may vary based on age, gender, and policy updates.