Frequently Asked Questions

Question: What are WorkKeys®?

Go to About WorkKeys®

Question: Who are the WorkKeys® assessments administered to?

In Illinois, grade 11 students are examined on two of the total eight WorkKeys® assessments. The WorkKeys® assessments are one of the key components to the Prairie State Achievement Examination (PSAE).

Question: What are the two WorkKeys® assessments utilized in the PSAE?

Reading for Information and Applied Mathematics

Question: Who benefits from the test scores?

students, parents, educators, employers, and policymakers

Question: How would students, parents, educators, employers, and policymakers use the WorkKeys® test scores?

Students and parents may use the information to determine the level of proficiency individuals may have in skills relevant to the current workplace. Educators may utilize the test score information to assess and determine how to prepare students for the workplace. Employers may use the information to document the skills of current or prospective employees and target areas for training. Policymakers may utilize the information to understand the needs of students, parents, and educators of community schools within their districts and the rest of the state, further assisting in the legislative decision-making process.