USA

OPM Administrative Careers With America (ACWA) Assessment

600 questions

About this exam

The OPM Administrative Careers With America (ACWA) Assessment is a selection assessment associated with certain federal administrative and clerical hiring pathways. It is intended for applicants seeking covered roles that call for sound office judgment, accurate information handling, and dependable administrative support—not as a single test required for every federal job. Who must take ACWA, and whether an applicant meets the job’s qualifications, depend on the specific vacancy announcement. Candidates should read the assessment instructions and eligibility requirements attached to the USAJOBS posting.

Preparation should focus on practical administrative skills, including records lifecycle and file classification, business correspondence and writing, calendar and meeting coordination, and workflow and task prioritization. These areas are useful for understanding the work, but the exact assessment content and format can differ by hiring announcement. Follow the instructions for the specific vacancy rather than assuming a fixed number of sections or a standard time limit. Reviewing explanations for missed questions can help reveal whether errors come from inattention, unclear writing, or weak prioritization.

How to prepare for the ACWA assessment

  1. Review records handling, file classification, business writing, scheduling, and task-prioritization skills, focusing on accuracy and clear communication.
  2. Use timed multiple-choice practice to build careful reading habits; after each set, identify why the best answer fits the situation.
  3. Check the vacancy announcement and its assessment instructions, then consult OPM or agency guidance linked from the official hiring materials for current requirements.

FAQ

Who takes the OPM ACWA assessment?

Applicants for certain federal administrative and clerical positions may be asked to take ACWA. The vacancy announcement explains whether it applies and lists the position’s qualification requirements.

What is the format of the ACWA assessment?

The format and assessment instructions can depend on the hiring announcement. Check the specific USAJOBS posting and any instructions sent by the hiring agency for details such as delivery method, components, and timing.

What should I study for the ACWA assessment?

Review practical office skills such as handling and classifying records, writing professional correspondence, coordinating calendars and meetings, and prioritizing administrative work. Use the job announcement’s assessment guidance to target your preparation.