The ACT WorkKeys measures foundational skills required for success in the workplace and help measure the workplace skills that can affect job performance. This test is given for free to students in grade 12 who have been identified as having taken CTE Concentrator coursework.
2025-2026 Fall and Spring Test Windows - November/December and February/March.
This test is REQUIRED by CMS and DPI. Students received an email from Mr. Samford (our CTE Pathway Development Coordinator) to let them know they are eligible and required to test.
The test is online - so students will take it on their CMS Chromebook. I will be providing scratch paper and a pencil to all students.
Benefits - I've had student contacting me who tested 3-5 years ago asking for copies of their scores now that they are entering the workforce! One student needed their WorkKeys scores for a job with Wells Fargo after graduating UNC Chapel Hill. Another student needed their WorkKeys after graduating from South Meck for a job with Hendrick Motors.
ACT WorkKeys® assessments are the cornerstone of ACT workforce solutions. The assessments measure foundational skills required for success in the workplace and help measure the workplace skills that can affect job performance. WorkKeys assessments are:
Relevant—WorkKeys® assessments are developed to solve actual workplace problems. Unlike other assessments, they don’t simply give an indication of reading and writing competency. Instead, they measure a range of hard and soft skills relevant to any occupation, at any level, and across industries.
Recognized—Successful completion of WorkKeys core assessments can lead to earning an ACT WorkKeys® National Career Readiness Certificate™ (ACT WorkKeys NCRC®)—a credential that verifies the skills found to be most essential across industries and occupations. Tens of thousands of employers recognize the value of the NCRC, and many recommend the credential to candidates.
Each assessment offers varying levels of difficulty. The levels build on each other, incorporating the skills assessed at the previous levels. For example, at Level 5, individuals need the skills from Levels 3, 4, and 5. The complexity increases as the quantity and/or density of the information increases.
If you have any questions about the test administration, please contact our Testing Coordinator, Elaine Miller at 980-343-3600 or elaine.miller@cms.k12.nc.us