National Work Readiness Credential

The National Work Readiness Credential is the only nationally recognized career readiness credential

validating mastery of the foundational employability and soft skills most in-demand by employers today.

The National Work Readiness Council offers a comprehensive foundational career readiness solution. Students and jobseekers build their skills using the online, self-paced, career-contextualized training and then take four qualifying proctored assessments to earn the National Work Readiness Credential. Based on a compilation of more than 25 years of employer-focused research, the underlying standards include Essential Soft Skills, Work Ready Math, Work Ready Reading, and Work Ready Data.

Essential Soft Skills

Essential Soft Skills measures entry-level work tasks and behaviors, including communicating effectively; conveying professionalism; promoting teamwork and collaboration; and thinking critically and solving problems. The assessment items require the learner to choose two answers for each question, the “best” and “worst” answers for handling each situation.

Work Ready Math

Work Ready Math measures ability to use mathematical reasoning skills to solve real-life workplace problems. The assessment evaluates math skills including calculating sizes, quantities, and costs; evaluating information and results to determine the best solution; reviewing the accuracy of transactions; and solving problems to inform operational activities.

Work Ready Reading

Work Ready Reading measures ability to read, understand, and interpret written workplace text such as memos, schedules, company policies, and technical manuals. The assessment evaluates reading skills including obtaining information and applying new knowledge to the job; following instructions in complex procedural documents; and understanding and explaining regulations, policies, and procedures.

Work Ready Data

Work Ready Data measures ability to understand and interpret workplace data presented in forms, workflows, diagrams, charts, and graphs. The assessment evaluates data analysis skills including identifying trends and relationships among variables; interpreting research and operational data; and reviewing technical drawings and specifications.