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Exam Overview
What is the ACT WorkKeys assessments?
ACT WorkKeys is a set of workplace skills assessments developed by ACT. Three foundational assessments—Applied Math, Graphic Literacy, and Workplace Documents—measure the math, graphic-reading, and document-reading skills used across most jobs. Level scores on all three determine the ACT WorkKeys National Career Readiness Certificate (NCRC), a credential used by employers, workforce boards, schools, and states.
Why is the WorkKeys Exam Important?
Employers use WorkKeys scores to evaluate candidates' job-related skills and determine if they are suitable for a particular role. A strong performance on the test can:
ACT WorkKeys Exam Structure
The NCRC is based on three assessments, each taken and scored separately:
Applied Math
- Solve workplace math problems: money, time, measurement, rates, percents, ratios, area, and volume.
- Most problems need more than one step; higher levels add unit conversions, unknown values, and comparing options.
Graphic Literacy
- Find and use information in workplace graphics: tables, bar and line graphs, pie charts, flowcharts, floor plans, gauges, schematics, forms, and dashboards.
- Higher levels require comparing several graphics, spotting trends, and drawing conclusions.
Workplace Documents
- Read and apply workplace text: emails, memos, policies, procedures, safety notices, contracts, signs, and regulations.
- Higher levels require applying conditions and exceptions to new situations and inferring the reasons behind a rule.
Exam Pattern and Format
| Assessment | Questions | Time Limit | Answer Choices | Level Score |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Applied Math | 34 | 55 minutes | 5 | Below 3, or 3–7 |
| Graphic Literacy | 38 | 55 minutes | 4 | Below 3, or 3–7 |
| Workplace Documents | 35 | 55 minutes | 5 | Below 3, or 3–7 |
- All questions are multiple choice. Scores count correct answers only, so there is no penalty for guessing.
- Each assessment is taken separately, online or on paper, at an authorized test site.
- Spanish versions are available, with 70 minutes for each assessment.
- Results are reported as a level score and as a scale score from 65 to 90.
- Calculators are allowed on Applied Math if they meet the ACT calculator policy; online testing includes an on-screen calculator, and a formula sheet is provided.
Scoring and National Career Readiness Certificate (NCRC®)
Your WorkKeys scores determine your eligibility for the National Career Readiness Certificate (NCRC®), which has four certification levels:
| NCRC Level | Requirement | What It Shows |
|---|---|---|
| Platinum | Level 6 or higher on all three | Skills for nearly all jobs ACT has profiled |
| Gold | Level 5 or higher on all three | Skills for the large majority of profiled jobs |
| Silver | Level 4 or higher on all three | Skills for many profiled jobs |
| Bronze | Level 3 or higher on all three | Foundational skills for entry-level jobs |
Who Administers the WorkKeys Exam?
- ACT develops and scores the assessments; testing is delivered by authorized test sites.
- Test sites include high schools, community colleges, American Job Centers and other workforce centers, and employers.
- Many states use WorkKeys in high schools and workforce programs, so testing may be offered at no cost to the examinee.
Exam Registration and Costs
- Register through the test site. ACT's online Test Site Locator lists sites near you.
- Fees are set by each test site; many workforce programs, schools, and employers cover the cost.
- Bring the identification your test site requires.
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