Feeling confused or stressed about how the Army Combat Fitness Test (ACFT) is scored? You’re not alone. Many soldiers—even seasoned ones—struggle to understand the scoring system, what counts as a passing grade, or how to aim for top performance. With so many updates in recent years, it’s hard to keep track of what the standards even are.

That’s exactly why we created this complete guide to the ACFT score chart and grading scale. Whether you’re training for your first test or aiming to max out your events, this post will break down everything you need to know in simple, soldier-friendly language.

ACFT Scoring System: How It Works

The ACFT scoring system is built to convert your physical performance into a point-based score for each event. Every movement—whether it’s lifting weight, covering distance, or completing reps—has a set range of scores from 0 to 100 points. These points are then added together for a total possible score of 600.

Each event has its own unique scale, outlined in the official ACFT score chart.

What Is the ACFT Grading Scale?

The ACFT grading scale is designed to fairly evaluate a soldier’s physical readiness based on measurable performance. Each of the six test events is scored on a scale from 0 to 100 points, making the maximum total score 600. A minimum of 60 points per event is required to pass—meaning 360 is the lowest total passing score.

Here’s a quick breakdown of the six ACFT events:

• 3 Repetition Maximum Deadlift (MDL)
• Standing Power Throw (SPT)
• Hand Release Push-Ups (HRP)
• Sprint-Drag-Carry (SDC)
• Plank (PLK)
• 2-Mile Run (2MR)

These events test muscular strength, power, endurance, agility, and core stability—essential traits for military performance.

The scoring system is age- and gender-neutral, with a points-to-performance conversion chart that applies equally across the board. For example:

• A 340 lb deadlift scores 100 points, while 140 lbs earns about 65 points.
• In the 2-mile run, a time of 13:22 or faster scores 100 points, while a time of 21:00 is the bare minimum for passing with 60 points.
• For the plank, 3:30 minutes or more earns 100 points, while 1:30 minutes is the minimum for 60 points.

The goal of the grading scale is to eliminate subjectivity and ensure every soldier is measured against a consistent, performance-based standard.

ACFT Minimum Score and Requirements

To officially pass the Army Combat Fitness Test, you must meet both event-specific minimums and an overall cumulative score. The ACFT minimum score is 60 points per event, which adds up to a total of 360 out of 600. That means even if you do exceptionally well in five events, failing one (with less than 60 points) will result in failing the entire test.

Event Minimums You Must Hit:

Here’s what the bare minimum performance looks like across the six events to earn 60 points each:

ACFT Event	Minimum Standard (60 Points)
3 Rep Max Deadlift (MDL)	140 lbs
Standing Power Throw (SPT)	4.5 meters
Hand Release Push-Ups (HRP)	10 reps
Sprint-Drag-Carry (SDC)	3 minutes flat
Plank (PLK)	1 minute and 30 seconds
2-Mile Run (2MR)	21 minutes

These values represent the lowest passing standards. Falling below these in any single event—even if your total score is over 360—means you do not pass.

ACFT Minimum Requirements by Role

Although the baseline score is consistent, some Military Occupational Specialties (MOS)—especially combat roles—may require higher performance. For example:

• Heavy physical demand MOS (e.g., infantry) may encourage scores closer to the black standard, requiring more weight, faster times, and longer durations.
• Moderate and light physical demand roles may accept the minimums, but soldiers are still encouraged to aim higher for promotions and qualifications.

Why Meeting the Minimum Isn’t Always Enough

While 360 points is a passing grade, meeting only the minimum can limit career progression. Higher scores are often required for:

• Attending advanced schools (e.g., Ranger, Air Assault)
• Competing for leadership roles
• Improving your Overall Performance Evaluation (OER/NCOER)

So even if you just need to pass, aiming higher on each event is a smart move for your military career. Your ACFT qualification level can impact career opportunities, especially in combat arms.

ACFT Black and Gold Standards

In the Army Combat Fitness Test (ACFT), performance isn’t just about passing—it’s also about standing out. That’s where the ACFT black and gold standards come into play. These two performance levels represent higher tiers of physical readiness beyond the minimum requirements.

Gold Standard

The gold standard is the minimum fitness level required for soldiers in moderate physically demanding jobs. Meeting this standard shows you are well-prepared to meet the demands of common military tasks. Most soldiers in support roles must meet the gold level scores, which still require above-minimum performance in strength, endurance, and mobility.

Black Standard

The black standard is the highest level of physical performance on the ACFT. It’s required for soldiers in heavy physically demanding roles, such as infantry, special forces, and combat arms positions. To meet this standard, you must perform near the top end of each scoring chart

Achieving black standard scores can also help with:

• Competitive promotions
• Specialty schools like Ranger or Air Assault
• Leadership roles

Why These Standards Matter

While 360 points is the overall passing requirement, hitting black or gold standards proves you’re going beyond the basics. It shows commitment, strength, and readiness to lead by example—especially in high-intensity or combat environments.

What Is a Good ACFT Score?

A good ACFT score depends on your goals in the Army. While the minimum passing score is 360 points (60 points in each event), most soldiers aim much higher.

General Rule of Thumb:

• 360–439 points: Bare minimum, meets the standard but not competitive
• 440–519 points: Solid performance, above average
• 520–599 points: Excellent score, strong candidate for promotion and special schools
• 600 points: Perfect score—very rare and highly respected

Why Aim Higher Than the Minimum?

Even though 360 gets you a passing grade, it might not open doors to:

• Leadership roles
• Specialized training (like Ranger School or SFAS)
• Top performance evaluations

Most leaders and career-focused soldiers aim for at least 500+ points to stay competitive.

If you’re scoring consistently in the high 400s to 500s, you’re in great shape. That’s what many consider a “good ACFT score” across the Army.

Final Thoughts

The ACFT score chart is more than just numbers—it’s a roadmap to readiness. Whether you’re aiming for the minimum passing score or shooting for the gold standard, understanding the scoring and training accordingly can set you up for success.

If you’re preparing for the test, keep this guide handy and check back often for updates to Army regulations.