This bill mandates that the Armed Services Vocational Aptitude Battery-Armed Forces Qualifying Test (ASVAB-AFQT) be recognized as an alternative assessment for fulfilling the high school graduation proficiency test requirement in New Jersey. The State Board of Education is tasked with implementing this change, which aims to provide students with additional options to demonstrate their proficiency in meeting graduation standards.

Previously, the ASVAB-AFQT was included in a list of substitute competency tests approved by the Commissioner for students who did not pass the State graduation proficiency test. However, in May 2023, the State Board of Education removed the ASVAB-AFQT from this list. This bill seeks to reinstate the ASVAB-AFQT as a valid alternative assessment, thereby expanding the pathways available for students to achieve their high school graduation requirements. The act is set to take effect immediately upon passage.