I just got my SAT subject test score back (760 on US History, 730 on Literature). Will these scores be good enough for schools such as Brown (and other Ivy Leagues), Amherst, Williams, etc?
Also, how do I tell my parents about these scores? I know they’re going to compare me to other kids they know who got 800s on every test and they’re going to be disappointed about the 730
First off your scores are great! I can tell you based on first hand experience those scores will not preclude you from acceptance at the schools you mention.
In terms of your parents all they want is what is best for you. The don’t judge you relative to others but instead want you to be happy and fulfilled. Tell them you are happy with your results, proud of the effort you put in and remain committed to putting together a consistent and compelling narrative throughout your applications.
Then I would suggest you watch and episode or two of The Office and exhale. Your crisis of confidence is understandable but you have lots of stress ahead. You can’t allow for self doubt nor can you get your heart set on Ivies and simultaneously worry about your parents. Stay balanced, flexible, calm and confident. It will work out and your parents will be thrilled and proud if you are.
Good luck.
Schools really only use subject tests as an indicator of college readiness. As such, most colleges are looking for scores in the mid to high 700s/800. While 730 may not be regarded as highly in a seen-as-easier subject test (like Math 2), I’m positive that a 730 is seen as a perfectly reasonable score for the Literature subject test (which can be one of the harder ones to study for). Many kids, from what I’ve seen, get into top schools with scores like 720 and 740–scores close to 730. You can take it again if you’re unsure.
From what I’ve been told, many schools who require the Subject test scores only use the score as a added check mark for kids who are on the border between acceptance and rejection.