How is the PCL Scored? 1) Add up all items for a total severity score: Low = 17 - 35, Moderate 36 - 44, High 45+ (VA Scores) or 2) Treat response categories 3–5 (Moderately or above) as symptomatic and responses 1–2 (below Moderately) as non-symptomatic, then use the following DSM criteria for a diagnosis: Re-experiencing, Avoidance & Hyperarrousal.