ACT WorkKeys / NCRC
About This Exam
The National Career Readiness Certificate (NCRC) is a portable, evidence-based credential recognized by 22,000+ employers nationwide. Earned by passing three ACT WorkKeys assessments. Elevate is an authorized ACT testing site. Scores are valid for 5 years.
Official verification / more infoExams Available
Applied Math
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Measures the math skills workers use on the job — reading charts and graphs, calculating measurements, handling money, and solving multi-step problems. Tests levels 3–7. Most jobs require Level 5 or higher. No algebra required; a calculator is provided.
Workplace Documents
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Measures the ability to read and use workplace documents — forms, charts, policies, schedules, and instructions. Tests whether a candidate can find information, follow multi-step directions, and apply what they read to real job tasks. Tests levels 3–7.
Graphic Literacy
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Measures the ability to read and interpret workplace graphics — charts, graphs, diagrams, tables, and maps — and use that information to make decisions or solve problems. Tests levels 3–7.
National Career Readiness Certificate (NCRC)
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Earned by completing all three WorkKeys assessments (Applied Math, Workplace Documents, Graphic Literacy). The NCRC level — Bronze, Silver, Gold, or Platinum — is determined by the lowest score across the three tests. Recognized by employers, workforce agencies, and state governments as proof of job readiness.
How It Works
All exams are proctored. Most are administered in-person at our Indianapolis testing center.
In-Person (Required)
Proctored at our Indianapolis testing center. Appointment required — no walk-ins. Arrive 15 minutes early with valid government-issued photo ID.
Jobs This Credential Unlocks
Employers use these credentials as a hiring filter. Knowing the target level before you test helps you prepare to the right standard.
Warehouse Associate
Entry-level receiving, stocking, shipping
Food Service Worker
Restaurant, cafeteria, catering
Retail Sales Associate
Cashier, stock, customer service
Custodial / Janitorial
Facilities maintenance
Laundry / Linen Services
Healthcare and hospitality settings
Medical Assistant / CNA
Clinical support, patient care
Pharmacy Technician
Retail and hospital pharmacy
HVAC Technician
Installation, service, EPA 608 required
Electrician Apprentice
Residential and commercial wiring
Plumber Apprentice
Residential and commercial plumbing
Welder
Structural, pipe, MIG/TIG
Machinist / CNC Operator
Precision manufacturing
Administrative Assistant
Office support, scheduling, data entry
Customer Service Rep
Call center, help desk
Barber / Cosmetologist
Licensed trade — state exam also required
Firefighter
Municipal fire departments — many require Gold NCRC or equivalent
Police Officer / Corrections Officer
Law enforcement entry — written exam also required
EMT / Paramedic
Emergency medical services
Surgical Technologist
Operating room support
Phlebotomist (CPT)
Clinical blood draw — NHA CPT exam also required
IT Support Specialist
Help desk, CompTIA A+ often paired
Bookkeeper / Accounting Clerk
QuickBooks, payroll, A/R, A/P
Logistics Coordinator
Supply chain, dispatch, inventory management
Construction Supervisor
Crew lead, site safety, scheduling
Insurance Claims Processor
Medical billing, coding support
Union Trades (Ironworker, Pipefitter, Boilermaker)
Many union apprenticeship programs require Platinum
Registered Nurse (RN)
NCLEX also required — Platinum demonstrates academic readiness
Dental Hygienist
State licensure also required
Network / Systems Administrator
IT infrastructure, server management
Engineering Technician
Civil, mechanical, electrical support roles
Financial Services Rep
Banking, insurance, Series 6/63 often paired
Project Manager (entry)
PMP or CAPM often pursued alongside
Technical Writer
Documentation, manuals, compliance writing
Ready to Get Certified?
All exams are by appointment only. Walk-ins are not accepted. Same-day appointments may be available depending on capacity — call us to check.