Do you need to send SAT Subject scores after indicating it on college applications?

Test Preparation SAT Subject Test Preparation
1

So I’m taking the SAT ecological biology and math 2 subject tests in two days and I haven’t studied which I know isn’t good but I’ve been heavily busy with college apps. I already indicated on my UC, and common app that I have these planned, however I’m worried I’m going to get low scores. If I already indicated planned do I HAVE to send in my scores still or can I just not send them? Also, if you don’t do good on them how do colleges view it? My majors don’t require them I’m just taking them for an “oomf” but I’m worried they’ll just hurt me. And then the subject scores are due in December for UCs so I would get the score on December 14th and if I do decide to send it at that time, I’m worried they won’t get it on time.

2

For the UC’s, SAT subject tests are only recommended not required so you do not have to send them. However if there is a recommendation for your major and opt not to send them, it could impact your chances at the highly competitive UC’s.

UC’s state they accept up to the December sitting, so they will get there in time but you could rush them if you want to wait for the scores.

3

Okay so even if I said I planned to do them I don’t have to send them? And some of the UCs I’m applying to recommend them. So it will look bad if don’t send any? Or is it worse to send some that have bad scores? I’m not sure when the exact deadline for the UCs is which has me confused. Because if I see the scores the 14th and whether they are good or bad I’m not sure if that would meet the deadline?

4

With the SAT subject test scores, it is a Catch 22. Most competitive applicants will submit test scores so not submitting could impact your chances, however low test scores could also impact your chances especially at the top UC’s such as UCB and UCLA.

If you indicate on your UC application that you will be taking the tests, then admissions will be keep your file open waiting for your December scores. If you want to review your scores before submitting, then you may have to rush them to meet the deadline. Depending upon the lag time, they could reach admissions by December 31 if you order them immediately.