How to Take the CLT Online: Remote Proctoring Explained
If you’ve ever wondered how taking the Classic Learning Test (CLT) remotely works, you’re not alone. Thanks to the option for at-home, remotely proctored testing, students across the country can take the CLT and CLT10 from the comfort of their own homes. This blog will guide you through what you need to know, from preparing your space and computer to starting the exam and knowing what to expect on test day.
What You Need to Take the CLT Remotely
First, let’s talk about what students need for a successful remote CLT experience. You’ll need a reliable computer—either a laptop, desktop, (tablets and phones are not permitted)—and a stable internet connection. Students testing from home must also have CLT’s LockDown Browser installed on their device, which secures the testing environment and records the exam for review.
Your testing environment is just as important as your technology. It must be a well-lit, closed-off room and your face and workspace must be visible to the camera. You’ll need a standard desk or table and a regular chair or stool. Keep your desk clear of any items other than up to six sheets of scratch paper, two pencils or pens, and a drink. Phones, watches, headphones, educational materials, and secondary monitors must all be out of reach.
Note: Make sure everything is set up prior to the day you take the test. Don’t wait for the night before–or hour before–the test to prepare your computer and work area. Do yourself a favor and set up your test area and computer the day before, at the latest. This is to ensure you are relaxed, comfortable, and confident on test day, not stressed, frustrated and anxious. We also strongly recommend that you take a practice test at some point prior to the day you set up your testing area.
Preparing for Your Remotely Proctored Exam
Preparation is key to a smooth testing experience. Begin by logging into your free CLT account and checking that your student profile and test registration are correct. You’ll also want to complete the Test Simulation on your dashboard. This lets you practice pretest instructions, verify your LockDown Browser, and make sure your camera, microphone, and screenshare are working properly.
Before test day, carefully review the CLT’s remote proctoring rules. You’ll need to show your ID, your desk and chair, your room, your scratch paper, and ensure your ears and wrists are clear of any items. The exam is recorded—not live-proctored—so completing these pretest steps thoroughly is crucial. Failing to do so is one of the most common reasons exams go unscored.
Mini Tip: Test your lighting setup
Make sure your face and workspace are well-lit before test day. Natural light or a desk lamp works fine, but avoid backlighting from windows. If your pretest recording can clearly see your face and desk, your exam is much less likely to be flagged.
Starting Your Exam
On test day, log into your CLT student dashboard and locate your exam under “Test Active: Take Your CLT.” Click Begin Test to launch LockDown Browser. You’ll then read the Honor Code aloud and confirm that your testing space and technology meet the rules. Once your pretest steps are complete, your exam timer will start with Section 1: Verbal Reasoning.
The exam has three sections: Verbal Reasoning, Grammar & Writing, and Quantitative Reasoning. You’ll have approximately 40 minutes for the first section, 35 for the second, and 45 for the third. There are no breaks except for optional one-minute stretch breaks between sections, during which you must remain visible on camera.
During the Exam
While the CLT is not live-proctored, live support is available from 7 a.m. to 7 p.m. ET on test day. If you experience technical issues, message the chat icon on your dashboard. You won’t be penalized for time spent troubleshooting, and your timer will be adjusted if necessary.
Remember, you must remain alone in the room and follow all proctoring rules. Moving out of camera view, consulting outside resources, or using forbidden devices can result in an unscored exam. Follow the pretest checklist, stay focused, and trust the process.
Mini Tip: Verify your recording transmission
Before beginning the test, check that your video and audio feed are transmitting properly during the pretest steps. This ensures the CLT team can see and score your exam without interruptions.
Preparing Mentally
Test anxiety is normal. Because the CLT is remotely proctored, you have flexibility in choosing your start time, so take a few minutes to settle your mind before beginning. Remember, the CLT is designed to measure aptitude and reasoning skills rather than rote memorization, so last-minute cramming is unnecessary. Focus on staying calm and confident—starting is the hardest part!
Mini Tip: Use practice exams strategically
We urge you to take advantage of the three free practice exams in your dashboard. They mirror the official test format and scoring, helping you build confidence and familiarity with the remote setup.
After the Exam
When you complete the final section, click Submit. You’ll be prompted to provide feedback via a survey and are then free to leave your testing space. Do not discuss test content with anyone. Scores are returned after review by CLT staff, who ensure exam integrity and compliance with all rules.
Key Takeaways
Taking the CLT remotely is a convenient and secure way to complete a college entrance exam. With careful preparation of your technology, testing environment, and knowledge of the rules, students can approach their exam confidently. Follow the pretest instructions, complete the test simulation, and utilize the practice exams on your dashboard to feel fully prepared.
If you have questions at any point, CLT support is available via email at info@cltexam.com or through the live chat feature.
For more thorough explanations of each step of the process, be sure to check out these pages on our site:
https://www.cltexam.com/tests/remote-proctoring/
https://info.cltexam.com/remotelyproctoredtesting
https://info.cltexam.com/howtostartyourexam
https://lockdown.cltexam.com/remotely-proctored-instructions
https://www.cltexam.com/tests/test-days/
https://info.cltexam.com/top-5-reasons-remotely-proctored-exams-are-voided
