WorkKeys Exam 2026-2027

Questions & Answers

What is the WorkKeys exam?

The WorkKeys Exam is a National Career Readiness Certificate Assessment and is taken by our students who are finishing their Associate’s Degree as part of Mid-South’s graduation requirements.  It is a way to show employers that you have the skills to be a valuable employee.  Doing well on the WorkKeys exam can earn you recognition at graduation, a certificate that is attractive to potential employers, and contributes to the Work Ready Community designation in Crittenden County (which could help attract potential employers to the area). There are three 55-minute exams: Applied Math, Workplace Documents, and Graphic Literacy.  There are four certificate levels: Platinum, Gold, Silver, and Bronze.

What should I expect for the WorkKeys exam?

The test is comprised of three 55-minute sections with short breaks between each section. Please plan to be at the testing center for just over 3 hours. 

 

The three sections are part of the National Career Readiness Certificate (click on the test section names to find out more and to see practice questions): Applied Math, Workplace Documents, and Graphic Literacy.

Doing well on the WorkKeys exam can earn you recognition at graduation, a certificate that is attractive to potential employers, and contributes to the Work Ready Community designation in Crittenden County (which could help attract potential employers to the area). Thank you for doing your best on this exam!

The highest score available on each test is Level 7.  Certificates are earned as follows:

1. Platinum Level: Score of at least Level 6 in all three core areas, which demonstrates the necessary skills for 99% of the jobs in the WorkKeys® database.
2. Gold Level: Score of at least Level 5 in all three core areas, which demonstrates the necessary skills for 90% of the jobs in the WorkKeys® database.
3. Silver Level: Score of at least Level 4 in all three core areas, which demonstrates the necessary skills for 65% of the jobs in the WorkKeys® database.
4. Bronze Level: Score of at least Level 3 in all three core areas, which demonstrates the necessary skills for 35% of the jobs in the WorkKeys® database.

How can I prepare for the WorkKeys exam?

Visit the ACT WorkKeys website for more information: https://www.act.org/content/act/en/products-and-services/workkeys-for-job-seekers/preparation.html. The three sections are part of the National Career Readiness Certificate (click on the test section names to find out more and to see practice questions): Applied Math, Workplace Documents, and Graphic Literacy.

How much does the WorkKeys exam cost?

There is no charge for the WorkKeys exam when taken as part of ASU Mid-South's graduation requirements.

Are testing accommodations available if needed?

Students requiring test accommodations due to a disability should submit their request to the Dean of Student Success at least 30 days before the desired test date in order to allow adequate time to review the request and any associated documentation. Documentation may be submitted by mail, email, fax, or dropped off in the Learning Success Center in person. For more information about accommodations, please visit asumidsouth.edu/disability-services or call 870-733-6790.

Where should I go to take my exam?

Exams are given in the Testing Center inside the Learning Success Center.  The Learning Success Center is located inside Donald W. Reynolds Center across from the Library.  Check-in at the front desk of the Learning Success Center to let them know that you are here to take an exam.

What should I bring when I take my exam?

• Pencil
• Picture ID such as your Mid-South ID or a driver’s license
• A calculator
• A watch to keep track of time, if you choose – Smart Watches are NOT allowed.

Your personal items (including your phone) will be stored in a secure locker while you test. Please only bring in what you need.