Hello all:
I’m a rising senior in high school, and I have a question about AP scores and SAT II scores in the admissions process. So, here’s my story… I originally wanted to go to school to study Biochemistry (or something similar). To convey my interest in the STEM fields, I took AP Chem and AP Calc junior year, and I signed up for AP Bio and AP Physics next year. At the same time, however, I have a strong interest in the humanities - I’ve taken APUSH and AP Lang, and I signed up for AP Spanish Lit next year (one-on-one with the department head, which seemed very intriguing to me). To meet the SAT II requirement at most of the schools I’m considering, I had to take two of them, which I did. I chose to test in Math I and in US History, receiving a 730 on both.
I really don’t want to take any more exams, as I’d rather focus on the other parts of my application. I’m afraid, though, that I’ll be penalized for not taking the SAT II in a science subject, especially since a science is likely to be my primary field of study (might double major or minor in History, too - I don’t know). Could sending my AP score in Chemistry be a filler for this? Technically, I did meet the Subject Test requirements, but I’m just afraid that admissions counselors might misjudge my passion for science. I got a 5 on the Chem test, which obviously shows that I’m competent, but how will colleges react to the fact that I don’t also have the SAT II in Chem? Is this even something to worry about? Thanks.
It depends on the school. If you’re applying to MIT, Caltech or Harvey Mudd, they require a science subject test. You’ll need to check each school for their specific requirements.
If the school requires SAT2, then there is no substitution.
The poster does have two SAT 2 scores. The problem, if there is one, is that he didn’t take a science SAT2. As someone said above, it all depends on where you’re applying and somewhat on your prospective major. A few schools specifically require that one of your SAT2’s be a science. Some schools also prefer or require Math 2 instead of Math1. Also remember that AP scores are self reported on the Common App whereas SAT2 scores come from the College Board, so the SAT2 scores are “verified.”
I think you’re okay unless you’re applying to someplace like Harvey Mudd, CalTech, MIT or other STEM heavy schools which have specific requirements and expectations regarding the SAT 2’s. I’m assuming that you’re not applying in engineering, but rather to a college generally or a university’s school of arts & sciences.
Consider having one of your LOR come from a science teacher.
It is really up to you. Getting a 750+ on Biology or Chem Subject Tests will let colleges know that you have an aptitude for your declared major, however submitting a History and Math could give off a “well rounded” impression. I’d just use your math and history scores and self report you AP Chem/Bio scores on the Common App.
Thanks everyone! Yeah, none of my choices are STEM exclusive/heavy, and I am not interested in Engineering.
@JoseAMendez I think I will likely do that. It sounds like the most logical action. Thanks!