I am going to be entering my senior year and plan on applying to BS/MD programs for a direct med school entrance. I just received my scores for SAT subject tests (Math: 800, Chem: 800, Bio M: 770). Should I retake Bio M? I was really striving for a 780 or higher, and seeing as I am most likely majoring in Bio, I am confused as to whether I need a better score.
I also realize that most BS/MD’s either don’t need subject tests, and if they do, they usually a.) don’t specify which science test they want (usually Bio E/M or Chem would suffice), or b.) they most likely want Chem as the science SAT II test and Math II as well.
Additionally, just to put it out there in case it changes your answer - I also unfortunately received a 4 on the AP Bio Exam despite receiving a 99% overall in the class at my school (and the class wasn’t easy either). I did receive a 5 on Chemistry though. My GPA for this year on a scale of 5 was 4.7 (I took 5 AP’s in my junior year).
Don’t take any tests. You are fine on test scores. But note, BS/MD program is not just based on GPA and Test Scores. So your chance depends on other factors, EC, Essays, Interviews, demonstration of your passion and consistent track record.
@helloo22 Agree with @GoldenRock Bio 750 score is NOT a good reason to retake it. Rather take Chem and Math SAT II subject test. You do not need to send all three subject score everywhere. Some schools only need any two or MATH and Chem subject scores.
Based on 2017 statistics the mean of MB subject test is 648 and standard deviation 112. So you are above the standard deviation threshold of 760 which is good. But 770 corresponds to a percentile of 85. Better shoot for 90 and above if possible.
If you have the bandwidth, and since you probably remember most of the subject matter anyway, why not revise a little bit and retake? It won’t hurt. It may also to some extent compensate for the 4 in AP. Not that either of the scores is bad and will hamper your chances, but if you look at the competition there are kids applying with 3 800s and all 5s in APs.
Regarding GPA, they look at your cumulative GPA, and in some places even your 1st marking period of senior year.