CLT FAQ
Answers to the most common questions about the Classic Learning Test.
Why take the CLT?
The CLT test is a nationally recognized college admissions test, just like the SAT and ACT exams. It is accepted by over 250 four-year colleges and universities in the US. In addition to being a college admissions test, the CLT can count for college course placement, and a good CLT score can increase your chances of getting scholarships. Furthermore, the CLT has been approved by the Florida Department of Education to qualify students for the Bright Futures scholarship.
How does the CLT exam differ from the SAT and ACT?
CLT diverges from the SAT and ACT by testing critical thinking skills through engagement with classic texts, emphasizing historical and philosophical perspectives alongside traditional reading comprehension. This resonates with schools seeking students who can analyze complex ideas and engage with diverse viewpoints, valuing critical thinking over solely technical skills. The CLT's focus on timeless literature and argumentation complements a well-rounded education, aligning well with institutions seeking students with strong foundational knowledge and a love of learning.
Schools like this approach for many reasons. First, it goes beyond memorizing facts and formulas. The CLT encourages students to grapple with complex concepts, analyze arguments, and develop their own perspectives. Second, it exposes students to diverse literature, history, and philosophy, enriching their understanding of the world and themselves. Third, CLT's focus on critical thinking and communication skills builds a solid foundation for success in all aspects of life, not just in college.
How does the content of the CLT differ from the SAT and ACT?
While the SAT and ACT prioritize math skills and science knowledge, the CLT tests on classical literature and Western philosophy. Critical reading is tested on all three exams, but unlike the SAT and ACT, the CLT critical reading questions focus on thoughtful analysis of thought-provoking texts from authors like Plato, Dante, and similar authors. Grammar and logic are also a big part of the CLT exam, requiring students to analyze sentences and build connections between ideas. And lastly, the Quantitative Reasoning section of the CLT focuses more on logic and problem solving. Whereas the SAT and ACT often focus on memorization, rapid calculation and test-taking tactics, the CLT tests critical thinking and encourages students to build a strong intellectual foundation.
How does the CLT scoring system differ from the SAT and ACT?
CLT uses a scale from 40 to 120, with 118 roughly equivalent to a perfect score. This composite score combines the three section scores that each use a scale from 1 to 40: Verbal Reasoning, Grammar & Writing, and Quantitative Reasoning.
SAT uses a scale from 400 to 1600. This composite score is a combination of two section scores that each use a scale from 200 to 800: Evidence-based Reading and Writing, and Math.
ACT uses a scale from 1 to 36. This composite score is an average of the four section scores that each use a scale from 1 to 36: English, Math, Reading, and Science.
CLT has released a CLT / SAT / ACT score concordance chart that shows the relationship between the exam scores:
Is the ACT, SAT, or CLT more difficult?
While the ACT, SAT, and CLT are similar in difficulty, the CLT is sometimes more challenging for test takers because of its focus on classical texts and logical reasoning, which are not always covered thoroughly in public schools in the United States. That said, those that familiarize themselves with the nuances of the CLT should expect to do similarly well to the SAT and ACT, or perhaps better if they like the types of questions and content in the CLT.
In terms of scoring, it is harder to get a perfect score (120) on the CLT than it is to get a perfect score on the SAT (1600) or ACT (36). This is by design - the CLT organization believes that too many students are now able to get perfect scores on the SAT and ACT, which makes that score less valuable for students applying to top colleges. You can dive deeper in CLT's Concordance Report.
Do colleges prefer the SAT, ACT, or CLT?
While the CLT is new, it is already accepted at over 250 colleges and universities in the US and more are being added at a significant rate. The SAT and ACT are accepted by almost all major colleges and universities, but the CLT is catching up quickly.
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