<p>I am applying to the UCs and I would be so happy to get into an engineering program. I have a killer GPA (4.0 all four years), awesome ECs, take AP classes, but my test scores are hurting me. (1700 SAT) I am hoping that my personal statement will help me because i have been through alot and I know schools like diversity and when kids overcome adversity (I am Hispanic, mother addicted to meth, father convicted of rape, brother in prison for attempted murder, etc.). My friend says if I dont take any subject tests then the school will automatically throw out my app, the thing is, THE TEST IS AFTER THIS NEXT WEEKEND, and i dont feel like i could study good enough to score good on them because i have so much other work like my finals and school project deadlines and studying for my ACT. I feel like if i test bad it will hurt me, but my friend keeps assuring me that its better to have them than to not! I need help :(</p>
<p>Check the requirements for the schools you are applying to. Don’t listen to friends when you can easily find out for yourself if the schools require subject tests. Many good schools don’t, but the top ones usually do. And even the schools that do will accept the ACT with writing instead of the SAT and SAT subject tests.</p>
<p>@massmomm Well, I am applying to Berkeley, Irvine, UCLA, & Davis(I have safety schools don’t worry). They do not require it but it is highly recommended with engineering. I am just so stressed out right now because today is the last day to sign up for December subject tests. I don’t know if its worth borrowing 80 dollars to take some test that I may score low on which will ultimately lower my chances even more…But then its like, my 2 friends keeps telling me that its better to have them than nothing, which I think is complete BS. Because if I score low then that will hurt me even more!!</p>
<p>Stop listening to your friends. Go ask your guidance counselor. That person will be able to give you more accurate feedback.</p>
<p>You’ve already signed up for the ACT. Right now, your focus should be on doing well on that test.</p>
<p>The UC’s recommend but not require SAT Subject tests. That said, to be competitive, you should take them. Your UC application will not be tossed out if you do not have Subject tests, but it puts you at a disadvantage against the other applicants. Unless you can get a good score on the ACT, UCI may be your only chance at this point (High Match). UCLA and UCB are reaches and UCD is a low reach. Good Luck.</p>