The USMC CFT Calculator is a powerful online tool designed to help United States Marine Corps personnel, recruits, and fitness enthusiasts accurately estimate their scores on the Combat Fitness Test (CFT). The CFT is a core fitness evaluation required by the Marine Corps, aimed at testing the physical readiness of Marines in combat-like conditions. Our calculator breaks down the three main events — Movement to Contact (MTC), Ammo Can Lifts (AL), and Maneuver Under Fire (MANUF) — and converts raw performance into a standardized score based on official USMC scoring tables.
USMC CFT Calculator
How to Use the USMC CFT Calculator
Using the calculator is simple. Just input the required values for each of the three events, and the tool will return your score for each section as well as your total combined score.
Input Requirements:
- Gender – Male or Female
- Age Group – Determines the appropriate scoring bracket
- Movement to Contact (MTC) – Time in minutes and seconds
- Ammo Can Lifts (AL) – Total number of reps completed in 2 minutes
- Maneuver Under Fire (MANUF) – Time in minutes and seconds
Steps:
- Select your Gender and Age Group.
- Enter your MTC time (in MM:SS).
- Input the total number of Ammo Can Lifts.
- Enter your MANUF time (in MM:SS).
- Click Calculate or similar button (depending on your site).
- The tool displays:
- Individual event scores
- Total score
- Performance category (1st Class, 2nd Class, 3rd Class, Fail)
Formula Behind the USMC CFT Calculator
The calculator uses official USMC scoring tables to convert performance metrics into scores out of 100 per event.
1. Movement to Contact (MTC):
- A timed 880-yard run in boots and utility uniform.
- Scored based on time brackets.
2. Ammo Can Lifts (AL):
- Lift a 30-pound ammo can from shoulder height to overhead repeatedly for 2 minutes.
- Score depends on number of reps.
3. Maneuver Under Fire (MANUF):
- Simulates combat movement, including crawling, carrying, and grenade throws.
- Scored by how fast the course is completed.
Total Score = MTC Score + AL Score + MANUF Score
Classification:
- 1st Class: 225–300
- 2nd Class: 175–224
- 3rd Class: 120–174
- Fail: Below 120
Each age group and gender combination has slightly different scoring scales, which the calculator automatically accounts for.
Example Calculation
Let’s say a 25-year-old male Marine completes:
- MTC: 2 minutes 55 seconds
- Ammo Can Lifts: 100 reps
- MANUF: 3 minutes 35 seconds
Results might be:
- MTC Score: 90
- AL Score: 95
- MANUF Score: 88
Total Score: 273 – 1st Class
Why Use the USMC CFT Calculator?
- ✅ Saves Time: No need to manually cross-reference charts.
- ✅ Accurate Scoring: Based on the latest USMC guidelines.
- ✅ Prepares for Testing: Helps you plan training and evaluate readiness.
- ✅ Tailored to You: Adjusts scoring based on gender and age group.
- ✅ Motivational Tool: Visualize progress over time.
Who Should Use This Tool?
- Active Marines preparing for annual testing
- Marine recruits
- Fitness coaches
- Military trainers
- Veterans maintaining fitness
Tips to Improve Your USMC CFT Score
- Train the events individually – Focus on form, speed, and endurance.
- Use interval training for better MTC and MANUF times.
- Practice ammo can lifts to increase rep efficiency.
- Track progress using this calculator weekly.
- Optimize recovery — hydration, sleep, and rest matter.
20 Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. What is the CFT in the USMC?
The Combat Fitness Test evaluates Marines’ physical readiness for combat scenarios with three timed events.
2. How often is the CFT taken?
Usually once a year, though it may vary depending on duty station and command.
3. What is a passing score?
A combined score of 120 is the minimum passing mark.
4. What is a good CFT score?
Anything 225 and above is considered First Class — the highest rating.
5. How do I train for the MTC?
Incorporate sprints and interval runs to improve your 880-yard time.
6. Can civilians use this tool?
Yes, especially if preparing for recruitment or training like Marines.
7. Do female Marines have different scoring?
Yes, scoring is adjusted based on official gender-specific standards.
8. Is the ammo can lift actual ammo?
No, it’s a 30-pound can used for standardized testing purposes.
9. How many points is each event worth?
Each is worth 100 points, totaling a maximum of 300.
10. What uniform is worn during CFT?
Utility uniform and boots are worn for all events.
11. Are rest periods allowed between events?
Yes, but the full CFT is expected to be completed within a certain window.
12. Is this calculator official?
It’s based on official data but not affiliated with the U.S. government.
13. Can I fail one event and still pass overall?
Not necessarily — total score matters most, but very low performance can still fail.
14. Is the CFT different from the PFT?
Yes. The PFT tests general fitness (pull-ups, crunches, 3-mile run), while the CFT simulates combat readiness.
15. Can I retake the CFT if I fail?
Yes, depending on your unit's policy and guidance from command.
16. What’s the average number of ammo can lifts?
Most Marines perform between 80–120 reps.
17. Can this help recruiters evaluate applicants?
Definitely, especially for pre-screening fitness.
18. Is there a penalty for stopping mid-event?
Yes, time lost or reps missed can severely impact your score.
19. Where can I find the official scoring chart?
USMC publishes it in MARADMIN and official fitness manuals.
20. Can I use this tool on mobile?
Yes, the calculator is mobile-friendly for use anywhere.
Final Thoughts
The USMC CFT Calculator is an essential digital tool for Marines and fitness professionals who want to quickly and accurately assess performance for the Combat Fitness Test. It saves time, ensures accuracy, and provides motivation through clear performance feedback.