SAT, ACT, or CLT? Choosing the Best College Entrance Exam for Florida Students
- Saisha Delevoe
- May 2, 2025
- 1 min read
Choosing the right college entrance exam can significantly impact college applications, scholarships, and admissions outcomes. Here's a breakdown of your options.
Comparison of Tests
Test | Content | Length | Scoring | Widely Accepted? | Florida Bright Futures Eligibility |
SAT | Reading, Writing, Math | ~3 hours | 400–1600 | Yes | Yes* |
ACT | English, Math, Reading, Science | ~3 hours | 1–36 | Yes | Yes* |
CLT | Reading, Writing, Math | ~2 hours | 0–120 | Accepted by some private/religious colleges | Yes* |
*Minimum score requirements apply
Pros and Cons for Florida Students
SAT: Widely used and accepted, especially helpful for Bright Futures scholarship eligibility.
ACT: Includes a science section; preferred by students strong in data interpretation.
CLT: Shorter and offered remotely; best for students applying to partner schools.
Each test has its advantages depending on the student’s strengths and future college plans. Consider doing a practice test for each before choosing.
👉 Stay tuned for Part Two of the series, where we'll dive into testing strategies, prep resources, and how to stay calm under pressure!
When comparing SAT, ACT, or CLT, Florida students should focus on which exam best matches their strengths and the admission requirements of their target universities. The SAT emphasizes reasoning and data analysis, the ACT is faster-paced with a strong science component, while the CLT appeals to students who prefer a classical, reading-heavy approach. It’s also smart to think globally—many international universities, including Durham University, value strong academic profiles beyond just test scores. Along with entrance exams, factors like coursework rigor, personal statements, and overall preparedness play a key role in competitive admissions.