MCESG Switches AFCT to Web-Based Testing, Adds DLPT Access

The Marine Corps has updated how MCESG personnel take the Armed Forces Classification Test (AFCT). Paper-based testing is out. Web-based AFCT through the iCAT system is now the standard, effective immediately. On top of that, MCESG personnel now have access to the Defense Language Proficiency Test (DLPT) for the first time, administered at assigned locations under a designated test administrator.

Bottom line: If you're MCESG and want to test, coordinate with your Region's headquarters to schedule through the new web-based system.

Who it affects

This MARADMIN applies exclusively to MCESG personnel. If you're not assigned to MCESG, this doesn't touch you.

It also directly affects anyone designated, or being considered, as an Installation Test Control Officer (ITCO) or Installation Test Administrator (ITA) within MCESG regions.

What you need to do

If you're a Marine wanting to test:

1. Contact your Region's headquarters to schedule an AFCT or DLPT testing event.
2. Paper-based AFCT requests are no longer routine. They'll be considered case-by-case by Manpower and Reserve Affairs, Manpower Analysis Branch (MPA) Test Control only.

If you're being designated as an ITCO or ITA:

1. Complete all four required training courses on Joint Knowledge Online (JKO) at https://jkodirect.jten.mil/⧉:
   • DMDC-US1376-iCAT⧉ — iCAT Test Administrator Certification Training
   • DMDC-US1416-iCAT⧉ — iCAT Test Administrator (TA) Certification
   • DMDC-US1377-DLPT⧉ — DLPT Test Administrator Certification Training
   • DMDC-US1412-DLPT⧉ — DLPT Certification
2. After logging into JKO, go to Profile, scroll to Audience Association, click Add Audience(s), search "DMDC," and add both:
   • DMDC – iCAT TA
   • DMDC – DLPT TA
3. Email your appointment letter and training certificates to SMB_Manpower_MSAB_Testing@usmc.mil⧉. Access to iCAT is not granted until MPA Test Control receives both.

ITCO eligibility: O-2 or above, civilian GS-7 or above, or equivalent NAF employee.

ITA eligibility: O-2 or above, E-8 or above serving as MCESG Region First Sergeant, civilian GS-5 or above, civilian contractor, or equivalent NAF employee.

For regions still holding paper test materials: All paper AFCT materials (test booklets, answer sheets, scoring keys, inventories, etc.) must be returned to MPA Test Control within 120 days of this MARADMIN's release. Mail to:

Commandant of the Marine Corps
Manpower and Reserve Affairs (MP)
Attn: MPA (Test Control)
3280 Russell Road
Quantico, VA 22134-5103

Key dates

• Effective immediately: All AFCTs administered electronically
• Valid exception: Any paper-based AFCT postmarked before this MARADMIN's release date (13 March 2026) will still be graded
• 120 days from 13 March 2026: Deadline to return all paper testing materials to MPA Test Control

The official version

MARADMIN 105/26 is the source document. This policy implements and updates MCO 1230.5C (Classification Testing). Questions go to smb_manpower_msab_testing@usmc.mil⧉ or the POCs listed in the message.

This is written by a reservist, for reservists. It is not an official publication of HQMC or MARFORRES. Always verify guidance with your command or unit S-1 before acting on any article or summary.