What is the Classic Learning Test

The Classic Learning Test (CLT) is a standardized college entrance exam (think ACT and SAT). 

Much like the ACT and SAT, there are exams for lower grades, too… including CLT10 for tenth graders, CLT8 for 8th graders, and CLT3-6. 

If your students or their parents are curious about the CLT, they can read this:
Comprehensive guide to the CLT.

How the CLT is different

The format of the CLT is similar to the ACT. 

There are three key differences: 

  1. The Authors featured on the CLT
  2. The CLT is primarily taken online (even from HOME)
  3. No science section on the CLT

Authors

On the CLT, the Reading and Grammar passages are taken from classic authors – Plato, Shakespeare, Dante, etc. 

So, instead of reading a modern journal article or novel, students will mainly be reading passages from timeless classics (yes, that’s where the name Classic Learning Test comes from, it’s NOT JUST for Classical schools, anyone can do well on the CLT). 

Online, at-home testing

Students can even take the CLT from the comfort of their own home. They will be recorded (audio and video), and their test will be reviewed for Security and Fairness — aka, making sure they didn’t cheat. 

Can they take it in school? Yes… If your school administers the test. 

Can they take it on paper? Yes… If your school chooses to do the test on paper.

No Science

The ACT has a Science section that is separate from its Math section. 

The CLT has a “Quantitative Reasoning” section. This section has Algebra, Geometry, and Logic questions. Sometimes, those questions will use scientific terminology (like mentioning elements or discussing an experiment). 

There are also “Science” passages on the Reading and Grammar sections of the test, to measure how well a student can comprehend scientific concepts. 

How does the CLT work? 

Test Format

There are three sections: 

  1. Verbal Reasoning  – 40 minutes
  2. Grammar / Writing – 35 minutes
  3. Quantitative Reasoning – 45 minutes

Each section of the test has 40 Questions. 

Scoring

There are 120 total questions on the CLT. 

Scoring is simple. If you get a question correct, you get a point. 

If you get a question wrong, you do not get the point (there is NO additional penalty for missing a question). For a comparison between ACT and CLT scores, click here.

How to take the CLT

  • Go to CLTexam.com, create a profile, and register for a test. 
  • There is a test date each month, and students can even test online from the comfort of their own home. 
  • Taking the CLT costs $69 (compared to $65 for the ACT). 

Should my students take the CLT?