According to the U.S. Census Bureau’s Household Pulse Survey, the percentage of U.S. households homeschooling their children rose from 5.4% in the spring of 2020 to 11.1% by the fall of 2020. This trend was notably accelerated by the COVID-19 pandemic, which led many families to explore alternative education methods. Homeschooling offers flexibility, allowing parents …
According to the U.S. Census Bureau’s Household Pulse Survey, the percentage of U.S. households homeschooling their children rose from 5.4% in the spring of 2020 to 11.1% by the fall of 2020. This trend was notably accelerated by the COVID-19 pandemic, which led many families to explore alternative education methods.
Homeschooling offers flexibility, allowing parents to tailor education to their children’s needs and create diverse learning experiences. Many families who began homeschooling during the pandemic have continued to appreciate its benefits.
As homeschooling continues to gain popularity, parents are looking for standardized testing options to assess their child’s academic progress and prepare for college admissions. One such test is the Classic Learning Test (CLT), an alternative to the SAT and ACT that is growing in popularity, especially among homeschool families. In this guide, we’ll explore the CLT, how to prepare for it, and why it’s becoming a preferred choice for many homeschoolers.
The CLT is a standardized college admissions test designed to measure the academic abilities of homeschooled students. With a focus on classical texts, ethical reasoning, and deep critical thinking, the CLT offers a unique approach that resonates with students from homeschooling and classical education backgrounds. Its shorter format, emphasis on great works of literature, and excellent customer service have contributed to its exponential growth and adoption by over 250 colleges, including some public institutions.
The Classic Learning Test is a promising and exciting addition to the world of college entrance exams. The CLT aims to offer a test more rigorous, comprehensive, and targeted than competing tests. The CLT is ideal for homeschooled students, faith-based private school students, or any student applying to schools like Liberty University, Belmont Abbey College, Grove City College, Christopher Newport University, or Baylor University, to name a few. But it’s also an excellent differentiator for high-achieving students who want to add something unique to their college resume.
Preparation for the CLT involves similar strategies to those for the SAT and ACT but with a unique focus on classical texts and higher-level thinking. Here’s how you can get started:
Review the test format: The CLT consists of three main sections: reading, mathematics, and grammar & writing. Students should familiarize themselves with the test format to help them understand what to expect and how to structure their study time.
Use CLT-specific prep materials: Unlike the SAT or ACT, the CLT has its own set of prep resources, including practice tests and study guides. These resources often focus more on literature and classical education, which can align better with homeschool curriculums.
Practice time management: As with any standardized test, time management is key. Students should practice working through each section efficiently to ensure they can complete all questions within the allotted time.
Focus on critical thinking: The CLT places a strong emphasis on logical reasoning and the ability to draw conclusions from texts, so students should work on developing these skills alongside traditional academic content.
Scheduling the CLT is straightforward. Unlike competing standardized tests, the CLT offers flexible testing options. Here’s how you can schedule your exam:
Register online: You can register for the CLT through their official website. Registration is simple and can be done well in advance of your preferred test date.
Choose a test date: The CLT is administered multiple times throughout the year, giving families flexibility in choosing the right time for their students.
Select a testing center: The CLT is offered at testing centers across the United States. To find a nearby testing center, use the CLT’s online search tool. Many homeschool groups and co-ops also offer group testing and remote proctoring options.
For homeschooling families, choosing the right standardized test can be a crucial decision. Here’s how the CLT compares to the SAT and ACT:
The CLT’s popularity with homeschoolers can be attributed to three key factors:
When considering the best standardized test for homeschoolers, it’s important to evaluate the test’s alignment with your educational values, the flexibility it offers, and its college acceptance rate. The CLT stands out as an excellent choice for homeschool families who want a test that reflects their curriculum and educational approach. Whether you’re preparing for college admissions or simply looking for a way to assess your child’s academic progress, the CLT provides a balanced, effective solution.
For homeschool families seeking a standardized test that complements their unique approach to education, the Classic Learning Test (CLT) is a strong contender. With its emphasis on critical thinking, classical education, and flexible testing options, it offers a refreshing alternative to the SAT and ACT. By understanding the test’s format, preparation strategies, and scheduling process, you can help your homeschooler succeed on the CLT and take a confident step toward their future college journey.
The Classic Learning Test (CLT), also known as the CLT exam, is a standardized test designed to assess students’ knowledge of the classical liberal arts. It is considered an alternative to the SAT and ACT tests, which are both very popular undergraduate admissions exams for American colleges and universities. The CLT sets itself apart with …
