ACT WorkKeys National Career Readiness Certificate

The ACT WorkKeys National Career Readiness Certificate (ACT WorkKeys NCRC®) is an assessment-based credential issued at four levels: Bronze, Silver, Gold, and Platinum. The NCRC measures and certifies the essential work skills needed for success in jobs across industries and occupations.

Individuals who successfully complete the three WorkKeys assessments — Applied MathGraphic Literacy, and Workplace Documents — earn the WorkKeys National Career Readiness Certificate® (WorkKeysNCRC®), which is well recognized by many national employers and government agencies. 

Even if you have a high school diploma, GED®, or a post-secondary degree, the certificate further verifies that you can handle the tasks that are common in today's workplace. 

Workkeys Assessment and Schedule

Sessions for the three WorkKeys assessments are scheduled monthly on the following dates. Some employers may require additional assessments, such as Business Writing or Workplace Observation, which are also offered.

  • Wednesday, December 4, 2024 at 11:00 a.m.
  • Wednesday, January 8, 2025  at 9 a.m.
  • Wednesday, February 5, 2025 at 9 a.m.
  • Wednesday, March 5, 2025 at 9 a.m.
  • Wednesday, April 2, 2025 at 9 a.m.
  • Wednesday, May 7, 2025 at 9 a.m.
  • Wednesday, June 4, 2025 at 9 a.m.

Plan to be at the testing site for approximately 3-4 hours, depending on which assessments you are taking.

Location: All testing takes place at our Harris Campus, near the airport, Building II, Room 2125. Testing starts on time. Any late arrivals will need to reschedule.

Workkeys Registration, Requirements, and Cost

You must register in advance for the WorkKeys testing. Sessions fill up early, so plan accordingly. For additional information or to register, email Michelle Miller and provide:

  • your telephone number
  • which assessments you need to take
  • indicate if they are for a specific program or employer

Costs are as follows: 

  • National Career Readiness Certificate: $54; includes Workplace Documents, Graphic Literacy, and Applied Math 
  • Business Writing or Workplace Observation assessment: $31 per assessment

If you are taking the assessments for a school system, please confirm with your point of contact which assessments you need to take to ensure that you are set up correctly. Note: CMS candidates will take Option A.

  • Option A:  Applied Math, Workplace Documents, Business Writing ($67)
  • Option B:  Applied Math, Workplace Documents, Graphic Literacy (NCRC) ($54)

Preparation

Find the online ACT tools to help you prepare and improve WorkKeys scores.