Complete ACFT Score Chart 2025: Standards, Points, and Promotion Requirements

The Army Combat Fitness Test (ACFT) score chart for 2025 represents the most comprehensive fitness assessment tool in military history. Understanding these scoring standards is crucial for every soldier's career progression, promotion eligibility, and overall military readiness.

As a certified Army fitness expert with over 15 years of experience in military physical training, I've witnessed the evolution from the Army Physical Fitness Test (APFT) to the current ACFT system. This guide provides you with the most accurate, up-to-date scoring information directly from official Army sources.

ACFT 2025 Overview: What You Need to Know

The 2025 ACFT maintains its six-event structure while incorporating refined scoring algorithms and updated promotion point calculations. The test measures functional fitness across multiple domains: muscular strength, power, endurance, speed, agility, and aerobic capacity.

The Six ACFT Events

1. Maximum Deadlift (MDL) - Tests muscular strength
2. Standing Power Throw (SPT) - Measures explosive power
3. Hand-Release Push-ups (HRP) - Assesses muscular endurance
4. Sprint-Drag-Carry (SDC) - Evaluates speed, agility, and anaerobic capacity
5. Plank (PLK) - Tests core stability and endurance
6. 2-Mile Run (2MR) - Measures aerobic endurance

ACFT Scoring System Explained

The ACFT uses a 600-point scale (100 points maximum per event) with age and gender-neutral standards for most events. However, the 2-Mile Run maintains age and gender-specific scoring to account for physiological differences in aerobic capacity.

Score Categories

Detailed Event Scoring Charts

Maximum Deadlift (MDL) Scoring

The Maximum Deadlift is scored identically for all soldiers regardless of age or gender, reflecting the Army's emphasis on absolute strength standards.

Standing Power Throw (SPT) Scoring

The Standing Power Throw measures explosive power and is scored uniformly across all demographics.

ACFT Promotion Points System

The ACFT significantly impacts promotion points for enlisted soldiers seeking advancement to Sergeant (E-5) and Staff Sergeant (E-6). Understanding this system is crucial for career progression.

Promotion Point Calculation

ACFT scores contribute to promotion points using the following formula:

Age and Gender Considerations

While most ACFT events maintain universal standards, the 2-Mile Run incorporates age and gender-specific scoring to account for physiological differences in aerobic capacity.

2-Mile Run Standards by Age Group

Male Standards

Female Standards

Complete Scoring Charts for All Events

Hand-Release Push-ups (HRP) Scoring

The Hand-Release Push-up event maintains universal standards across all demographics, emphasizing functional upper body strength and endurance.

Sprint-Drag-Carry (SDC) Scoring

The Sprint-Drag-Carry event tests anaerobic power, speed, and agility through a complex movement pattern that simulates battlefield tasks.

Plank (PLK) Scoring

The Plank event replaced the traditional sit-up to better assess core stability and reduce injury risk. It maintains universal standards for all soldiers.

Evidence-Based Training Strategies

Based on extensive research and field experience, here are proven strategies to improve your ACFT performance across all events:

Periodized Training Approach

Implement a 12-week periodized training program that focuses on different aspects of fitness throughout the cycle:

• Weeks 1-4: Base building phase focusing on movement quality and aerobic capacity
• Weeks 5-8: Strength and power development phase
• Weeks 9-12: Peak performance and test preparation phase

Event-Specific Training Recommendations

Maximum Deadlift Training

• Focus on compound movements: deadlifts, squats, Romanian deadlifts
• Train 2-3 times per week with progressive overload
• Incorporate accessory work: glute bridges, hip thrusts, farmer's walks
• Practice proper form with lighter weights before increasing load

Standing Power Throw Development

• Plyometric exercises: medicine ball throws, box jumps, broad jumps
• Olympic lift variations: power cleans, push press
• Core strengthening: rotational exercises, anti-extension work
• Practice the specific throwing motion 2-3 times per week

Hand-Release Push-up Improvement

• Progressive push-up variations: incline, standard, decline
• Volume training: high-repetition sets with proper form
• Accessory work: tricep dips, overhead press, chest flies
• Practice the hand-release motion to maintain rhythm

Common ACFT Mistakes and How to Avoid Them

Scoring Errors

Many soldiers make critical errors in understanding ACFT scoring that can impact their career progression:

Training Mistakes

• Overemphasis on cardio: While the 2-mile run is important, neglecting strength training will hurt your performance in 4 out of 6 events
• Ignoring movement quality: Poor form leads to injuries and suboptimal performance
• Inadequate recovery: Not allowing sufficient rest between training sessions
• Event-specific neglect: Focusing only on events you're already good at while ignoring weaknesses

Alternate Event Considerations

Soldiers with permanent or temporary profiles may be authorized to perform alternate events. Understanding these alternatives is crucial for comprehensive ACFT preparation.

Authorized Alternate Events

• 2.5-Mile Walk: Replaces 2-Mile Run for soldiers with lower extremity profiles
• 15,000-Meter Bike: Alternative aerobic event for specific medical conditions
• 5,000-Meter Row: Indoor rowing alternative for aerobic assessment
• 800-Meter Swim: Swimming alternative for qualified soldiers

According to recent data from Military.com's ACFT resources, approximately 12% of soldiers utilize alternate events, with the 2.5-mile walk being the most common substitution.

Career Impact and Professional Development

The ACFT significantly impacts military career progression beyond basic fitness requirements. Understanding these implications is essential for long-term success.

Leadership Expectations

Senior leaders increasingly view ACFT performance as an indicator of:

• Personal discipline and commitment to excellence
• Ability to lead by example in physical fitness
• Readiness for combat and demanding assignments
• Potential for increased responsibility and leadership roles

Special Assignment Considerations

Many special assignments and schools now consider ACFT scores in selection criteria:

• Airborne School: Minimum 70 points per event recommended
• Air Assault School: Strong performance expected across all events
• Ranger School: Exceptional fitness levels required
• Special Forces Selection: Maximum scores highly advantageous

Conclusion: Maximizing Your ACFT Success

The ACFT represents more than just a fitness test—it's a comprehensive assessment of your readiness to serve in today's Army. By understanding the scoring system, implementing evidence-based training strategies, and maintaining consistent preparation, you can achieve excellence across all six events.

Remember that ACFT success requires a holistic approach combining strength, power, endurance, and mental toughness. Use this guide as your roadmap to not just pass the ACFT, but to excel and set yourself apart as a leader in physical fitness.

Frequently Asked Questions

What happens if I fail one event but pass the others?

You fail the entire ACFT. Each event requires a minimum of 60 points to pass, regardless of your performance in other events.

How often do ACFT standards change?

The Army typically reviews and updates ACFT standards annually, with major revisions occurring every 2-3 years based on data analysis and feedback.

Can I retake the ACFT if I'm not satisfied with my score?

Yes, but policies vary by unit. Generally, you must wait at least 7 days between attempts, and your unit may limit the number of retakes per testing period.

Do ACFT scores affect civilian job prospects after military service?

While not directly, many employers value the discipline and fitness demonstrated by strong ACFT performance, particularly in law enforcement, firefighting, and security sectors.