Board of Governors approves Classic Learning Test as alternative to SAT, ACT

TALLAHASSEE, Fla. – The Board of Governors voted to accept the Classic Learning Test as an alternative to the SAT and ACT tests for public college admissions Friday.

The Classic Learning Test is a college entrance exam and assessment designed for high school juniors and seniors.

In May, Gov. Ron DeSantis signed HB 1537, making Florida the first state in the nation to formally adopt the test as an alternative to SAT and ACT for public college admissions. 

The exam assesses reading, grammar, and mathematical skills, providing a comprehensive measure of achievement and aptitude.

The test emphasizes foundational reasoning skills and is accessible to students from a variety of educational backgrounds.

Launched in 2015, the test is accepted by over 200 colleges across the U.S.

As previously reported by Florida’s Voice, a handful of independent, nonprofit universities in Florida have long-recognized the CLT as a standard for college entry.

Ave Maria University, Saint Leo University, Palm Beach Atlantic University, Southeastern University, Florida College, Stetson University and Warner University are among the Florida schools that already recognize CLT as part of their admissions process.

“The system is pleased to add the test to reach a wider variety of students from different educational backgrounds. Not intimidated by controversy or critics, our focus is on the success of our students, and the State of Florida,” the board said in a press release.

“Because we reject the status quo, today’s decision means we are better serving students by giving them an opportunity to showcase their academic potential and paving the path to higher education,” the statement continued.

In addition to the SAT and ACT, the Florida Legislature approved and added the Classic Learning Test as a path to the Florida Bright Futures Scholarship Program, a lottery-funded scholarship to reward Florida high school graduates for high academic achievement. 

“Florida’s independent, nonprofit higher education institutions have always been about choice. These schools provide options for students and families to choose the path that’s best for them,” Bob Boyd, president and CEO of Independent Colleges and Universities of Florida, previously said.

“When it comes to testing, CLT is another option. By accepting CLT, we’re giving students more choice for standard assessments,” he said.