Hey guys,
I know most schools require at least 2 SAT subject tests. However, would more subject tests mean a better chance of admission? If so, how much of a boost can this be?
No. Spend your time beefing up grades, SAT scores, or interesting ECs.
And doing WELL on a few probably means a whole lot more than a slew of mediocre grades.
no. Submit what they request.
Almost all of those that require subject tests consider the highest two subject test scores in determining admission if you submit more than two. Thus if you take one or two and score low, it may help to take more just to get two with high scores, otherwise not. Harvard says it will consider any sent but the highest two are the ones of importance for the decision. Also, Georgetown stands alone among colleges as recommending three rather than two subject tests.
Also note that as to your comment that “most” schools require two subject tests, that is not correct. The vast majority of colleges do not require subject tests and ignore them if sent. For a list of colleges that require, recommend or consider subject tests, go here http://www.■■■■■■■■■■■■■■■/subject-test-requirements-and-recommendations/
It’s normal for someone to take 2-3 SAT IIs. But to simply add 4 or 5 for the heck of it? Consider what Jeff Brenzel, former Admissions Dean of Yale said:
“At the same time, we are not particularly drawn to one-dimensional students who have made their sole or primary objective in life amassing the largest number of honors or AP courses conceivable, accompanied by multiple efforts to achieve the world’s highest test scores.”
http://questions.blogs.nytimes.com/2008/12/17/qa-college-admissions/?_r=0
If applying for top schools (which I’m assuming b/c only a handful of schools even want ANY SAT2s), then an unchecked test taking regimen would bring to question: doesn’t this person have something better to do with a Saturday? In another thread, you lament your lack of ECs. Here’s a red flag for you: Studying for more (and unnecessary) SAT2s will only deplete your EC time.
In fact, obsessive test taking and weak ECs suggests that the applicant is one-dimensional and lacking in social intelligence. Don’t put yourself in this category.
OP if you are applying to schools that are test flexible- meaning an applicant has an option to submit 3 subject tests in lieu of an ACT or SAT1- then submitting higher scores in 3 subject tests (vs the ACT/SAT) would clearly work in your favor. But schools offering this kind of flexibility are few and far between (a handful of LACs). Otherwise no need to take/submit more than two unless they specifically ask.