ACT WorkKeys is a job skills assessment system that helps employers select, hire, train, develop, and retain a high-performance workforce. This series of tests measures foundational and soft skills and offers specialized assessments to target institutional needs.

As part of ACT's Work Readiness System, ACT WorkKeys has helped millions of people in high schools, colleges, professional associations, businesses, and government agencies build their skills to increase global competitiveness and develop successful career pathways.

There are 3 sections to the test:

Workplace Documents

Applied Math 

Graphic Literacy

WorkKeys stresses skills development is important for every type of employment. In fact, the fastest growing segments of the WorkKeys job analyses are being done for professional, technical, and managerial jobs that require at least a four-year college degree. 

The abilities to learn, listen, communicate, work in teams, and solve problems—all areas addressed by WorkKeys—are important assets for any employee, regardless of career choice. 

They are also extremely important in today's colleges. 

What are the tests like?

WorkKeys measures eight workplace skills: Applied Mathematics, Applied TechnologyListening, Locating Information, Observation, Reading for Information, Teamwork, and Writing

WorkKeys questions feature everyday workplace problems. In each case, the basic skills needed to answer the questions are the same as those needed to perform actual job tasks, such as solving a legal question, setting up a computer, or scheduling employee vacations. Each test measures a range of skill levels, from the lowest level for which employers are willing to test up to the point at which specialized training is needed

What happens to the test results?

At most schools, students and their counselors are the only ones to receive individual score reports. Students can use their results to identify jobs for which they are qualified and to improve areas where their skills are weak. Schools can use the information—along with input from employers—to ensure that the curriculum provides adequate work skills training to meet the needs of businesses. Employers may request—with a student's permission—scores for recruiting, selection, and training.