Classic Learning Test
| Type | Computer based standardized test |
|---|---|
| Skills tested | English, math, and critical reasoning skills |
| Purpose | Undergraduate admissions (mostly US and Canadian colleges and universities) |
| Score range | Composite score: 0 to 120 |
| Languages | English |
| Fee | US$59 (CLT), $49 (CLT10), $39 (CLT8), $39 (CLT3-6) |
| Used by | Colleges or universities offering undergraduate programs, or used by teachers and parents for student evaluation |
| Website | cltexam.com |
The Classic Learning Test (or CLT) is a standardized test developed by Classic Learning Initiatives in 2015. The company is based in Annapolis, Maryland, and its CEO is Jeremy Tate.[1] Designed as an alternative to other standardized tests such as the SAT and ACT,[2] the test assesses reading, grammar, writing, and mathematics. One of the distinctive elements, of the CLT is its use of classic literature and historical texts[3] for the majority of reading passages on the exam.
The exam can be taken online or in-school, takes approximately two hours to complete, and issues test scores within ten days; scores are calculated out of 120. Classic Learning Initiatives also offers other assessments for third through twelfth-grade students: the CLT10, designed for high school freshmen and sophomores, and CLT3-8, for third through eighth-grade students.[4] CLT scores have been indexed to SAT and ACT scores, as well as CLT10 scores to PSAT scores.[5]
Reception
In September 2023, The New York Times reported the test emphasizes Christian thought and uses passages authored by religious figures, like Saint Teresa of Ávila, for reading comprehension.[6]
Schools accepting CLT scores
Over 250 colleges and Universities in both the United States and abroad accept the CLT for various purposes related to admissions and course placement.> These schools tend to be private, liberal arts or faith-based colleges. Many are evangelical and Catholic schools.[7][8]
In September 2023, Florida's Board of Governors voted to approve the CLT as an accepted admissions test at all public universities in the state.[9]
A partial list of test-optional colleges that do not require any standardized test for admission, but allow the option to send in a CLT score include:
- Cedarville University[12]
- Grove City College[13]
- Liberty University[14]
- Harding University
- Mount St. Mary's University[15]
- Palm Beach Atlantic University[16]
- Saint Vincent College[17]
- St. Olaf College[18]
- Wheaton College (Illinois)[19]
- Zaytuna College[20] New College Franklin[21] requires CLT scores for admission.
References
- ^ Redemer, Colin (June 20, 2023). "Debating the Classic Learning Test | Colin Redemer". American Reformer. Retrieved September 8, 2023.
- ^ "Student Publishes Comparison of ACT and Classic Learning Test". The Heartland Institute. Retrieved November 14, 2018.
- ^ "Author Bank for Classic Learning Test (CLT)". CLT. Retrieved August 4, 2023.
- ^ "CLT Tests". www.cltexam.com. Retrieved May 12, 2020.
- ^ "CLT and CLT10 Comparisons". cltexam.com. Retrieved May 12, 2020.
- ^ "Here's What It's Like to Take the Classic Learning Test". The New York Times. Retrieved October 30, 2023.
- ^ Ceballos, Ana; Brugal, Sommer (February 17, 2023). "Florida is considering a 'classical and Christian' alternative to the SAT". Retrieved February 22, 2023.
- ^ "Over 200 Colleges & Universities Accept CLT Scores". cltexam.com. CLT. Retrieved April 12, 2023.
- ^ Goldstein, Dana (September 8, 2023). "Florida Approves Classic Learning Test for Use in College Admissions". The New York Times. ISSN 0362-4331. Retrieved September 11, 2023.
- ^ "Apply to Benedictine". August 31, 2018. Retrieved June 3, 2023.
- ^ "Admissions Process - Bob Jones University". Retrieved May 24, 2021.
- ^ "Classic Learning Test Accepted at Cedarville". Cedarville University. Retrieved October 8, 2021.
- ^ "How to Apply". Retrieved July 10, 2023.
- ^ "Liberty University's Admission Requirements". Retrieved May 24, 2021.
- ^ "Undergraduate Admissions". Retrieved May 24, 2021.
- ^ "Freshman Admissions". Palm Beach Atlantic University. Retrieved September 8, 2023.
- ^ "Undergraduate Students - Saint Vincent College". Retrieved May 24, 2021.
- ^ "Test Optional - St Olaf College". Retrieved May 24, 2021.
- ^ College, Wheaton. "Submit Test Scores". Wheaton College. Retrieved September 8, 2023.
- ^ BA FAQs
- ^ "Apply". New College Franklin. Retrieved September 11, 2023.