120 Promotion Points Are on the Line: How Your ACFT Score Can Boost Your Career
The Army Combat Fitness Test (ACFT) is more than just a physical evaluation—it directly impacts your promotion potential. Soldiers can earn up to 120 promotion points for excelling in the test, which can affect eligibility for SGT and SSG promotions, special assignments, and advanced schools. Here’s how to leverage your ACFT score to boost your career:
1. ACFT Score = Promotion Points
A high score on the ACFT directly translates to promotion points. Scoring well in each of the six events—Deadlift, Standing Power Throw, Hand-Release Push-Ups, Sprint-Drag-Carry, Plank, and Two-Mile Run—is essential. For promotion, the higher your score, the more points you earn, putting you ahead of other Soldiers.
2. ACFT Scoring Breakdown: What’s at Stake
The ACFT consists of six events, each with a minimum passing score of 60 points, totaling 360 points. To earn promotion points, soldiers must exceed the baseline score. Scoring between 360 to 364 points will earn the least amount of promotion points—only 24 points total. To earn the full 120 promotion points, soldiers must achieve the highest possible score across all events. The higher your performance, the more promotion points you accumulate, giving you an advantage for advancement.
3. Maximize Your Career Potential
The ACFT score showcases your physical readiness and discipline—traits that are crucial for leadership roles. Soldiers who perform well in the ACFT demonstrate their commitment to Army standards, which can open doors to leadership positions, special assignments, and eligibility for advanced training.
4. Promotion Points for Soldiers with Profiles
Soldiers with permanent or temporary profiles may still be eligible for promotion points. Waived events or alternate exercises will earn 60 points each, and the most recent test score will be used to determine eligibility. However, soldiers must ensure their fitness test scores are current—an outdated score could negatively affect promotion status.
5. Tips for Improving Your ACFT Performance
To maximize your promotion potential, consider the following tips:
- Use The ACFT App: it tracks your ACFT performance, saves past scores, and guides you to excellence with tailored workouts and an AI PT assistant.
- Track your progress regularly and make adjustments to your training regimen.
- Stay consistent: Regular training and focused effort in each event will lead to better results.
Conclusion
Your ACFT score directly impacts your promotion opportunities, with 120 promotion points available. By focusing on each event, tracking your progress with the ACFT app, and staying committed to your fitness routine, you can maximize your promotion potential. Soldiers with profiles or special conditions are still eligible for promotion points, but must stay within the Army’s testing guidelines.