Last month, Northwest Florida State College (NWFSC) expanded its admission pathways by accepting the Classic Learning Test (CLT) as an entrance examination for college admission and college readiness.
With the addition of the CLT, Northwest Florida State College acknowledges the importance of broadening access to higher education. This is particularly relevant for the region’s dual enrollment students, those matriculating from private schools, and/or homeschooled students.
The CLT serves as an alternative to the SAT or ACT. While all three exams evaluate English, grammar, and mathematical skills, the CLT distinguishes itself by grounding its assessments in foundational readings from the Western Canon or Great Books curriculum. The CLT aims to restore a vision of education that connects knowledge with virtue, hoping to leave students inspired and enriched as they pursue their life’s goals.
“Embracing the CLT reflects our commitment to incorporating diverse skill and preparedness evaluations that aid our students’ academic journeys,” stated Dr. Devin Stephenson, President of NWFSC. “We are optimistic that the CLT will become widely adopted across the school districts of our region.”
“The idea that education should account for the intellectual and moral formation of our students is not new,” said Dr. Henry Mack, Vice President for Academic Affairs. “The legislature and Governor’s leadership in introducing a more classically oriented alternative assessment is a beautiful thing. It aligns with the historical mission of education in the United States—to cultivate virtuous citizens.”
NWFSC’s action follows recent legislation and measures taken by the Florida Department of Education, which now make the CLT eligible for Bright Futures scholarship funding. Additionally, the CLT now satisfies high school graduation requirements for ELA and mathematics assessments
