The four NCRC levels — Bronze, Silver, Gold, and Platinum — are not just labels. Each one tells an employer exactly how many jobs in the national database you qualify for, from 16% at Bronze all the way to 99% at Platinum.
Here is what each level actually means, what score you need to earn it, and which one is worth aiming for based on your career goals.
If you just got your ACT WorkKeys results and you are staring at a certificate level trying to figure out whether it is good enough — this guide breaks it down plainly.
What Is the ACT WorkKeys NCRC?
The ACT WorkKeys National Career Readiness Certificate (NCRC) is a nationally recognized, portable credential that certifies your foundational workplace skills.
It is not a degree. It is not a test score you put on a transcript.
NCRC is a verified, employer-facing credential that proves you have the skills needed to perform real-world job tasks — specifically in three areas: Applied Math, Graphic Literacy, and Workplace Documents.
The NCRC is used by job seekers, employers, educators, and workforce developers across every major industry in the United States.
Over 25,000 employers nationwide recognize it — including large organizations like Walmart, CVS Health, and Boeing.
The Three Assessments That Determine Your Level
Your NCRC level is based on how you score across three core WorkKeys assessments:
Applied Math — Tests your ability to solve math problems that actually come up at work. Think measuring, calculating quantities, interpreting data, and multi-step problem solving — not abstract algebra.
Graphic Literacy — Tests your ability to read and interpret workplace graphics: charts, diagrams, flowcharts, maps, and tables commonly used in professional settings.
Workplace Documents — Tests your ability to read and use workplace text — things like memos, policies, procedures, notices, and compliance documents.
The ACT WorkKeys level score ranges from 3 to 7. In each section, questions vary by level, with each new level representing a set of skills that are not evaluated in the preceding levels.
Your lowest score across all three sections determines your NCRC level. Every section must meet the minimum to earn a given certificate.
What Each NCRC Level Means
Bronze — Level 3 Minimum
Bronze level signifies an individual has scored at least a Level 3 on each of the three assessments and has the necessary skills for 16% of the jobs in the WorkKeys Job Pro database.
it is the entry point. It tells an employer that you have baseline foundational skills — the kind needed for repair roles, customer service positions, and other jobs that require core task comprehension without complex problem-solving.
Bronze is a real credential and worth claiming. But it is the starting line, not the finish line.
Who typically earns Bronze: High school students taking WorkKeys for the first time, individuals re-entering the workforce, or candidates who are new to a particular skills area.
What to do if you earned Bronze: Use the section-level scores to identify where you fell short. A targeted focus on your lowest subject before a retake can move you to Silver.
>>Silver — Level 4 Minimum
Silver level signifies an individual has scored at least a Level 4 on each of the three assessments and has the necessary skills for 67% of the jobs on the WorkKeys Job Pro database.
it is the first level where the NCRC starts to open real doors.
A Silver certificate demonstrates your ability to handle more complex tasks. Employers value this level in fields like administrative support, manufacturing, and healthcare, where employees must navigate more challenging work environments.
Jumping from Bronze to Silver is not just a number change — it nearly quadruples the share of jobs you qualify for, from 16% to 67%.
The American Council on Education (ACE) recommends that colleges and universities award up to six semester hours of college credit to individuals who earn the WorkKeys NCRC at the Silver, Gold, or Platinum level. Credit awards are at the discretion of each institution.
Who typically earns Silver: Community college students, skilled trade program graduates, and workforce development participants who have received targeted training.
>>Gold — Level 5 Minimum
Gold level signifies an individual has scored at least a Level 5 on each of the three assessments and has the necessary skills for 93% of the jobs on the WorkKeys Job Pro database.
It is the level most career advisors consider the meaningful benchmark.
At Gold, you qualify for the overwhelming majority of profiled jobs in the national database — including supervisory roles, technical positions, and jobs in healthcare, finance, and skilled manufacturing where complex problem-solving is required daily.
Only 19% of individuals who earn an NCRC credential qualify at the Gold level or higher. That means earning Gold puts you in the top fifth of all NCRC holders — a real differentiator on a resume or job application.
Who should aim for Gold: Anyone applying to positions that require decision-making, managing information, or working in regulated environments where precision matters.
Platinum — Level 6 Minimum
Platinum level signifies an individual has scored at least a Level 6 on each of the three assessments and has the necessary skills for 99% of the jobs on the WorkKeys Job Pro database.
IT is the top level of the NCRC and covers virtually every job profiled in ACT’s national database.
Reaching Level 6 and earning the Platinum NCRC demonstrates highly advanced skills suitable for technical roles in manufacturing, engineering, or IT, where precision and complex decision-making are crucial.
Platinum is rare. The percentage of test-takers who reach this level is small, which is precisely what makes it a strong credential for competitive fields.
Who typically earns Platinum: Experienced professionals, individuals with strong academic backgrounds, and candidates who have invested significant time in targeted preparation.
Quick Reference: All Four Levels at a Glance
| Level | Minimum Score | Jobs Qualified For | Best For |
|---|---|---|---|
| Bronze | Level 3 on all 3 tests | 16% of profiled jobs | Entry-level, first-time job seekers |
| Silver | Level 4 on all 3 tests | 67% of profiled jobs | Admin, manufacturing, healthcare support |
| Gold | Level 5 on all 3 tests | 93% of profiled jobs | Supervisory, technical, regulated roles |
| Platinum | Level 6 on all 3 tests | 99% of profiled jobs | Engineering, IT, advanced technical roles |
Which Level Should You Aim For?
The honest answer depends on the job you are targeting.
If you are applying to entry-level positions right now and need a credential quickly — Bronze gets you on the board. But do not stop there.
If you are targeting most general workforce positions — Silver is the practical floor. It unlocks two-thirds of the national job database and qualifies you for college credit at participating institutions.
If career advancement is the goal — Gold is the level worth aiming for. It covers 93% of all profiled jobs, puts you in the top fifth of all NCRC earners, and signals to employers that you are genuinely work-ready across complex tasks.
Platinum is worth pursuing if you are competing for highly technical roles or want to stand out in a crowded applicant pool.
Also Read: What Is a Safe State Test Score? How to Read Your Child’s Report
How to Check Your NCRC Score and Claim Your Digital Badge
After testing, your results are typically available within one to two business days for computer-based tests, or two to three weeks for other formats.
After earning the WorkKeys NCRC, individuals can set up an online account at myworkkeys.com that enables employers to verify their credentials quickly.
If you are a Platinum, Gold, or Silver WorkKeys NCRC badge earner, you can also obtain college credits through PLA (Prior Learning Assessment programs) by digitally sharing your transcript with accepting institutions.
Your digital badge from Credly can be added to your resume, LinkedIn profile, job boards, and social media — making it easy for employers to verify your credential with one click.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the minimum score to earn an NCRC?
You must score at least a Level 3 on all three WorkKeys assessments — Applied Math, Graphic Literacy, and Workplace Documents — to earn the Bronze NCRC. All three sections must meet the minimum. One low section holds down your overall level.
Does a WorkKeys NCRC expire?
WorkKeys scores do not expire. However, it is recommended that you retake the test and renew your NCRC every five years because the test’s requirements, sections, and scoring methods can change over time.
Can I retake the WorkKeys test if I want a higher level?
Yes. If you fail to reach the desired score, you can retake the test and any of its sections. You must wait 48 hours to schedule your test.
Is Silver or Gold better for most jobs?
Gold covers 93% of jobs in the national database compared to 67% for Silver. For most career-focused job seekers — especially those targeting roles with any level of complexity or advancement potential — Gold is the more meaningful target.
Do employers actually recognize the NCRC?
Yes. The NCRC is accepted by over 25,000 employers across the country. It is particularly valued in manufacturing, healthcare, logistics, finance, and public sector hiring where verifiable foundational skills matter.
Can the NCRC help me get college credit?
The American Council on Education recommends that colleges and universities award up to six semester hours of college credit to individuals who earn the WorkKeys NCRC at the Silver, Gold, or Platinum level. Whether your specific school participates is up to that institution.
Bottom Line
Bronze gets you started. Silver opens most doors. Gold is where most career-focused individuals should aim — it covers 93% of profiled jobs and puts you in the top fifth of all NCRC earners. Platinum is the elite tier for highly technical and competitive roles.
Your NCRC level is not fixed. Every level is retakeable, and moving up one level — from Bronze to Silver, or Silver to Gold — can significantly expand the number of positions you are qualified to pursue.
If you are preparing to take the WorkKeys assessment or looking to move up a level, the official ACT WorkKeys practice resources and your local workforce center are the best starting points.
Official Resources:
- ACT WorkKeys: act.org/workkeys
- My WorkKeys Account: myworkkeys.com
- Test Site Locator: act.org — Find a Test Center
Last Updated: June 2026
Meet Deepkant Shrivastava, he has been writing content since 2020. Over the years he has worked across more than ten websites — mostly covering job updates, career guidance, and government schemes — which gave him a solid grip on how to break down complicated topics for everyday readers.
At NextExamNews, he writes guides, exam updates, and result-related articles covering major about various exams. He tries to keep every article easy to read and straight to the point.
On the personal side, he is currently in performance marketing domain and learning AI and finding ways to bring both into his content creation.