Thought Leadership
How Universal Test Prep Access Can Help States Reduce Workforce Shortages
Senior Counsel and Director of Government Relations, KaplanWorkforce shortages are putting extraordinary pressure on sector and state economies. The need for qualified, skilled professionals has never been higher than now, as technological and demographic changes rapidly and continuously impact workforce demands.
One potential way to combat these shortages is to offer state employees and public university students access to licensure, certification, and graduate readiness programs. Universal access to high-quality test preparation at scale can eliminate cost and accessibility barriers to professional development.
By breaking down these barriers, states enhance their residents' employability and financial outcomes, help in-state employers close workforce shortage gaps, and strengthen local economies.
Driving Economic Growth with Test Preparation
Licensure, certification, and graduate school serve as critical gateways to economic mobility and professional advancement. High-quality test preparation, therefore, plays a pivotal role in supporting these pathways with structured, practical resources that enable success.
For employees and students pursuing new careers or advancement, state-supported test prep programs can open access to professions that require certification, licensure, and/or advanced degrees by removing cost barriers. Such access ensures that all residents, no matter their educational or financial status, can achieve their career goals.
Moreover, by tailoring test prep access to address specific sector workforce shortages (a key component of Kaplan’s All Access License™ program), states can effectively create targeted “in-demand” career pathways for their constituents that support both economic and individual growth.
Finally, packaged preparation of tests for credentials, licensures, or graduate school admissions puts career navigation into understandable and not-so-intimidating terms, increasing participation and confidence.
Ten most projected in-demand careers by sector, 2023–2033
Healthcare
Information Technology
Renewable Energy
Financial Services
Construction
Education
Transportation and Logistics
Manufacturing
Hospitality
Social Services
Source: Employment Projections 2023-2033, The U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics
Implications of Universal Access to Test Preparation
Universal access to test preparation can have profound long-term benefits that positively impact students, workers, employers, and the state economy as a whole. This approach builds a more competent workforce and strengthens overall economic resilience by equipping individuals with the tools to succeed.
When students and workers can access top-quality test preparation, they improve their pass rates on licensure and certification exams, excel in graduate school entrance tests, and secure more admissions to advanced education programs. Beyond individual achievements, these outcomes provide employers with a reliable, highly skilled workforce. The increased availability of qualified professionals bolsters workforce development and positions in-state workers for enduring success.
Statewide programs strategically align licensure, certification, and graduate school support with regional economic priorities, focusing on critical fields like healthcare, technology, and financial services. By consolidating demand and negotiating test preparation packages, states significantly reduce costs, enhancing accessibility while maximizing taxpayer investment.
The ripple effects of such programs extend well beyond the immediate. States enjoy improved economic stability, public institutions cultivate robust workforce pipelines, and residents realize their full potential. When implemented at scale, these initiatives deliver both immediate and lasting benefits.
Ultimately, universal access to packaged test preparation is a win-win-win for states, public institutions, and students. States alleviate workforce shortages, students and workers unlock new career opportunities, and in-state employers gain the skilled professionals they need. By prioritizing packaged test prep, states not only support constituents' professional and financial health; they also build the foundation for healthy, growing economies.
About the author
Emmanuel Nwakibu is Senior Counsel and Director of Government Relations at Kaplan. He is passionate about expanding educational access and focuses much of his work on how Kaplan’s All Access License program can help states reduce workforce shortages by offering universal test prep options to state employees and public university students.