<p>Hey CC'ers. I'm applying RD to Georgetown and have everything sent in so far besides my SAT scores. The problem is, I only ever took 2 subject tests and there is only one test date. It just so happens that during the test date, I will actually be out of the country in Thailand and then to Laos to cover a series of very interesting articles on a medical team from my town going over there. I work for my town's newspaper as their youngest intern, and the organization was so impressed with my work they are going to pay my way and already made arrangements.</p>
<p>Since I won't be able to meet the 3 subject tests which are "strongly recommended," should I just leave it be or send in a handwritten letter explaining the deficiency?</p>
<p>I think handwritten might not be a bad idea. Mine was typed, but handwritten can only add to your apparent sincerity.</p>
<p>I wouldn’t bother with a letter. People on CC have said they’ve been accepted with only 2 subject tests. I think if the 2 you have are solid, then you should be good to go. If you do choose to send a letter, using your international trip as the reason for not meeting the requirements wouldn’t be a great idea considering you’ve had multiple SAT test dates this year and last year to take 3 subject tests. Claiming you only have one last chance to take the test makes it seem like you put it off until the last minute.</p>
<p>Hoyagolfer: I understand what you mean, but if you are on the admissions team and you see a kid writing you a sincere letter, wouldn’t that reflect positively on him? Since the subject tests are recommended and not required, then a letter might help mitigate the effects of having only two. If they were required, on the other hand, then no letter would help anything, but since they are only a recommendation, I think a letter is a good initiative.</p>