CLT vs SAT/ACT: Should You Take the Classic Learning Test?

If you're tired of hearing about the SAT and ACT, let me introduce you to a third option that's gaining serious traction: the CLT, or Classic Learning Test. I've been watching this test grow in popularity for years, especially among homeschool families and students who love literature and philosophy. But is it right for you?

The CLT is fundamentally different from the SAT and ACT. Instead of testing your ability to analyze random passages about tree frogs or geometry theorems, it focuses on classic literature, historical documents, and philosophical texts. Think Shakespeare, the Declaration of Independence, and Aristotle rather than modern science articles and data interpretation.

Here's what makes the CLT unique: it assumes you've been exposed to great books and a more classic/liberal arts education. The reading passages come from authors like Jane Austen, Frederick Douglass, and Plato. The grammar section tests your understanding of rhetoric and style, not just punctuation rules. There's no science section, but there's a strong emphasis on logical reasoning and critical thinking.

The test structure is simpler too. Three sections: Verbal Reasoning (reading comprehension and grammar), Quantitative Reasoning (math through Algebra 2), and Logical Reasoning (think of it as philosophy meets critical thinking). Each section is scored 1-40, with a composite score of 120.

So who should consider the CLT? Students who thrive with classic literature, have been exposed to great books curriculum, prefer essay-based assessments over multiple choice (the CLT includes required essays), and are applying to colleges that value classical education.

CLT vs SAT/ACT: Making the Choice

The biggest factor is college acceptance. Currently, over 300 colleges accept the CLT, including some fantastic schools like Hillsdale College, Grove City College, and many Catholic universities. There are also multiple states that have passed laws allowing to CLT to be used for state-level scholarships (and many public universities have adopted the test in those states), including Florida, Oklahoma, and Arkansas. But if you're eyeing state schools outside of those states or Ivy League institutions, you'll likely need the SAT or ACT.

The math on the CLT only goes through Algebra 2, similar to the ACT and SAT. But the focus is more on critical thinking skills rather than memorization or achievement-based testing.

The CLT is also able to be taken at home online, and is offered every month of the year, meaning getting access to take the test is much simpler than the ACT or SAT.

One major advantage: the CLT feels more like an academic discussion than a standardized test. Students often find it more engaging and less stressful than traditional testing.

Who Should Take the CLT:

• Students with strong classical education backgrounds
• Those applying primarily to CLT-accepting colleges
• Students who struggle with advanced math but excel in reading
• Anyone who finds the SAT/ACT format overwhelming or impersonal

How to Prep for the CLT

Preparation for the CLT is different from traditional test prep. You can't just memorize formulas and strategies. The best preparation happens over years of reading great books and developing critical reasoning skills, but if you're starting now, focus on these areas:

Read actively from the CLT Author Bank - they publish a list of authors whose works appear on the test. Spend time with Shakespeare, Homer, Dickens, and other classical authors. Don't just read - practice analyzing themes, rhetoric, and arguments.

Brush up on logic and philosophy basics. The logical reasoning section tests your ability to identify assumptions, evaluate arguments, and think critically about ideas.

For math, focus on mastering Algebra 1 and 2 concepts thoroughly rather than racing through advanced topics.

Recommended Prep Resources:

• CLT's official website has free practice materials and author lists
• The Well-Trained Mind book list aligns well with CLT expectations
• Our Study Skills Course can help with reading comprehension strategies
• Classical education curriculum like Memoria Press or Veritas Press

Special Considerations for Homeschool Families

Homeschoolers often have a natural advantage on the CLT, especially those using classic curricula. Many homeschool programs already emphasize the great books and classic texts that appear on this exam.

If you've been using programs like Classical Conversations, Tapestry of Grace, Sonlight, or similar curricula, you're probably already well-prepared for the content. The CLT can actually validate your classical education approach to college admissions officers.

Check out our Homeschool High School Resource Guide for more testing timeline recommendations and documentation strategies.

The bottom line: the CLT isn't right for everyone, but for students with the right background and college goals, it can be a fantastic alternative to traditional standardized testing.

Need help deciding which test is right for your situation? Schedule a FREE 30-minute consultation to discuss your goals and create a testing strategy.

Have you considered the CLT? What questions do you have about this alternative? Drop them in the comments below!