What Is the ACFT?
The ACFT — Army Combat Fitness Test — replaced the old Army Physical Fitness Test (APFT) back in 2022. The Army made this change because the new test checks more of the body: strength, power, speed, and endurance — all things that matter in real combat situations.
There are 6 events in the ACFT. You must score at least 60 points per event to pass. The highest you can score on each event is 100 points. That means the lowest passing total is 360 points, and the best possible total is 600 points.
Quick Rule to Remember: Score below 60 on any single event = automatic failure, even if your other scores are great. You need 60 or more in ALL six events to pass.
The Simple ACFT Score Formula
= Total Score (360 minimum → 600 maximum)
Each event gives you between 0 and 100 points. Add all six together. If every number is 60 or above, you pass. That is the whole formula.
Skip the math. Enter your 6 raw event scores and get your full point breakdown in seconds — sorted by MOS category.
The 6 ACFT Events Explained
Let us look at each event one by one — what it is, what you do, and what the scoring range looks like.
3-Rep Max Deadlift (MDL)
You lift a trap bar off the ground three times. Tests leg and back strength — the kind you need to carry heavy gear.
Standing Power Throw (SPT)
Throw a 10-lb medicine ball backward over your head. Your best of two throws is recorded. Measures explosive power.
Hand-Release Push-Ups (HRP)
As many push-ups as you can in 2 minutes. After each rep you lift your hands off the ground — that is the hand release part.
Sprint-Drag-Carry (SDC)
A 5-lap shuttle (50m each). Sprint, drag a sled, carry kettlebells, lateral shuffle, then sprint again. Fast as you can.
Plank (PLK)
Hold a forearm plank as long as possible. You need at least 1 minute 30 seconds just to reach the 60-point minimum.
Two-Mile Run (2MR)
Run 2 miles as fast as you can. Faster time means more points. Pace yourself through the earlier events first.
ACFT Scoring Standards at a Glance
This table shows the minimum performance needed for 60 points and what you need for a perfect 100 in each event.
| Event | 60 Points (Min Pass) | 100 Points (Max Score) |
|---|---|---|
| Deadlift (MDL) | 140 lbs | 340 lbs |
| Power Throw (SPT) | 3.5 m | 12.5 m |
| Push-Ups (HRP) | 10 reps | 60 reps |
| Sprint-Drag-Carry (SDC) | 3:00 min | 1:33 min |
| Plank (PLK) | 1:30 min | 3:45+ min |
| 2-Mile Run (2MR) | 22:00 min | 13:30 min |
How to Calculate Your ACFT Score Step by Step
Write Down Your Raw Numbers
After each event, record your exact result — weight lifted, distance thrown, reps done, time finished, or seconds held. These raw numbers are what get turned into points.
Match Each Result to the Official Score Chart
The Army publishes scoring tables that show how each raw result converts to a point value. For example, a 200-lb deadlift maps to a specific number of points on the chart.
Add All Six Scores Together
Once you have a point value for each event, simply add them up. That total number is your official ACFT score.
Check Every Event Hit 60 or Above
Before celebrating your total, confirm no single event is below 60. A high total with one event at 55 is still a failed test.
Real Scoring Example
Let us say Specialist Jordan just finished the ACFT. Here is what they did and what it earned:
- 🏋️ Deadlift — 220 lbs → 78 points
- 🎯 Power Throw — 8.5 m → 75 points
- 💪 Push-Ups — 40 reps → 80 points
- ⚡ Sprint-Drag-Carry — 2:05 min → 82 points
- 🧘 Plank — 2:30 min → 76 points
- 🏃 2-Mile Run — 16:00 min → 72 points
Every event is above 60. Jordan passes with a score of 463. That is a solid, comfortable pass — and a great foundation to keep building on.
What About MOS Categories?
You might have heard the terms Gold, Grey, and Black. These are MOS (Military Occupational Specialty) categories that group jobs by how physically demanding they are:
- Gold (Moderate): Support roles like admin, finance, or intelligence. Minimum total of 360.
- Grey (Significant): Field support jobs that need more regular physical output. Minimum total of 440.
- Black (Heavy): Combat arms — infantry, special forces, and similar. Highest physical standards.
The scoring chart itself does not change between categories. What changes is the minimum your unit or MOS requires. Always confirm the exact standard with your unit before test day.
Tips to Score Higher on the ACFT
Knowing your score is step one. Improving it is step two. Here are the smartest places to focus your training time:
- Train the Deadlift with a trap bar specifically — it has the widest scoring range and soldiers most often leave points here.
- Run the Sprint-Drag-Carry as a full drill in training. The sled drag mid-event hits harder than people expect.
- Practice your plank hold every single day. Even short holds add up fast when done consistently over weeks.
- Split your 2-Mile Run evenly. Going out too fast in the first mile kills your second-mile pace and your score.
- Test yourself with a calculator after each training block so you can see where you are gaining and where you are falling behind.
Enter your latest numbers and watch your projected score change in real time. The fastest way to spot which event is holding you back.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the minimum score to pass the ACFT?
You need at least 60 points in every one of the six events. The minimum total is 360. But one event below 60 is a failure — no matter what your total is.
Is the ACFT scored differently by age or gender?
The current ACFT scoring standards are the same regardless of age or gender. This has been discussed in the Army, but always check the latest guidance from your unit or the official Army website.
Can I retake a single failed event?
No. You cannot retake just one event on test day. If you fail, you will typically retest the entire ACFT after a waiting period. Your unit’s policy will cover the exact timeline.
What if I score 100 on five events but fail one?
You still fail the ACFT. There is no trading points between events. Each event must hit 60 on its own. A total of 500 with a 55 in one event is still a failed test.
What is considered a good ACFT score?
Passing is 360. Above 450 shows well-rounded fitness. Hitting 500 or above puts you in top-tier standing. A perfect 600 requires elite performance across all six events.
How often do soldiers take the ACFT?
Most soldiers test at least twice a year. The exact schedule depends on your unit and assignment. Some units test more often during high-readiness periods.
You Now Know How the ACFT Score Works
Six events. At least 60 points each. Add them up and that is your total. No complicated math — just smart preparation and consistent training. The more you understand the test, the better you can target your weakest events and walk in on test day ready to perform.