The Tests:
The CLT
Designed as an alternative to the SAT and ACT, the CLT (Classical Learning Test) emphasizes classical education principles. It assesses students in reading, writing, and mathematical reasoning, with a focus on texts from Western intellectual traditions, including philosophy, literature, and historical works. Many colleges, particularly those with a classical or liberal arts focus, accept CLT scores for admissions and scholarships.
The SAT
The SAT (Scholastic Assessment Test) is a standardized college admissions test in the United States, primarily used to assess students’ readiness for college. The exam consists of three main sections: Evidence-Based Reading and Writing (EBRW), Math, and an optional Essay. The SAT is scored on a scale of 400 to 1600, combining the scores from the EBRW and Math sections.
The ACT
The ACT (American College Testing) is a standardized college admissions test used in the United States to assess students’ academic skills. It consists of four sections: English, Math, Reading, and Science, with an optional Writing section. The test is scored on a scale of 1 to 36, with each section contributing to the overall score. Many colleges use ACT scores for admissions and scholarship decisions.
The PSAT
The Preliminary SAT, also known as the PSAT/NMSQT® (National Merit Scholarship Qualifying Test), is a practice version of the SAT exam. You can only take the PSAT once per year, and many students take the test in 9th, 10th and 11th grade. If you earn a high score on the PSAT your junior year, you could qualify to receive a National Merit Scholarship—$180 million dollars in merit scholarships are awarded to students each year.
NMSQT:
The PSAT/NMSQT (National Merit Scholarship Qualifying Test) is the test that can help you qualify for the National Merit Scholarship, one of the most prestigious scholarships in the nation.
IMPORTANT:
Students will be evaluated for Bright Futures based on official test scores from the FDOE repository. To ensure Office of Student Financial Assistance obtains official test scores: Ensure demographics on your test registration and high school transcript match; and request your official test scores be sent to one of Florida’s 12 state universities when registering for the ACT and/or SAT.
Test Prep Resources:
Important Dates for the ACT / SAT
Overview of Standardized Tests
How to Prepare for the PSAT
Download a PSAT Practice Test
Understanding your Score: Frequently Asked Questions
Virtual Resources to Prepare for the SAT / ACT:
How do I prepare for these tests?
ACT/SAT test prep, and practice online (ACTStudent.org and CollegeBoard.org). There are free test prep sessions offered in the community at University of North Florida and Keiser University and Khan Academy.
Will taking the test again erase my previous scores?
No. Colleges and Bright Futures often use “Super Scoring” for admissions. This means they use your highest score in each area, no matter when you took the test, and combine them for a Super Score.