I received an 800 on Math II (yay) but a 700 on Physics (52nd percentile, yikes…). I’m applying for civil engineering at Rice, where two subject tests - one math, one science - are recommended.
Should I just send the Math II score? Would that look like I’m hiding another score? Or should I send both and hope the subpar Physics score is glossed over?
Thanks for any advice!
I’m of the opinion that one should send zero or two, because very very few people only take one Subject Test, and sending one looks like you’re hiding a score - which you are. The 800 is obviously excellent. The 700 will not be “glossed over,” but if you have an otherwise strong application it should not be detrimental, IMO.
Are you submitting an AP Physics score, if so what is it?
As Rice recommends two subject tests, probably should send the 700 as well…people may have different views on this, but IMO it’s best to satisfy the requirements (which is what recommended means in most cases). If you aren’t accepted it won’t be due to the Physics subject test score.
What does your GC say? (As they have the benefit of knowing your entire app)
@Mwfan1921 I wasn’t planning on submitting my AP Physics 1 score because it’s a 3, while all my other AP’s are 4’s and 5’s. My stats are otherwise strong (36 ACT, 4.0 UW GPA, 4/600 rank), so hopefully those will carry me…
I haven’t asked my GC for advice yet, but I will. Thanks for your reponse!
My daughter applied and was accepted to Rice last year with no subject tests. We were of the impression that recommended really meant “submit them unless you have a really good reason” but she wanted to apply so we let her. But, she did have both ACT and SAT scores to submit so maybe that helped?
Rice is unpredictable, imo. And they will look at the ACT subscores, not just the Composite. So, the M and S scores need to be strong. A 3 in physics, you already know, is not strong for engineering. What tests got a 5? Anything that was core stem? (Not stats, enviro, etc?) You’d also need the right mix of ECs.
That doesn’t answer your question, I know. But it forms the context for your decision. You really need to submit some sort of std test that reflects math skills.
@lookingforward Thanks for your response! My ACT subsections were 36 Math, 36 Science, 36 English, 34 Reading; hopefully that with an 800 on Math II shows mathematical proficiency?
Any other core STEM classes are ones I’m taking this year… I did get a 5 for Computer Science Principles and a 4 in Computer Science A, though I doubt that’s worth much. The rest of the 5’s are humanities-concentrated (World History, English Language, Seminar, Spanish Language).
My EC’s are solid but not extraordinary: NASA HS Aerospace Scholars; current president of Engineering Club and TAME (STEM competition); captain for TEAMS (team engineering competition) for a few years; and some regional/state awards in the TAME and TEAMS competitions.
I suppose my main question is whether the 700 in Physics will drag down the other parts of my application.
When they “suggest” two Subject Tests, that usually mean they expect it unless you have some financial restriction (which is hard to argue once you’ve taken one).
So I’d recommend sending both.
There’s also the option of studying and taking it again, or taking a different one.
Great subscores. Don’t forget to include non-stem ECs. Top colleges like rounding in ECs, as they want kids who stretch past their own interests, that awareness and energy, with a variety of peers. See what you can use. If you have other vol work than just with kids, consider including it.
I read your Chance thread and it offers more. I think you’re safe sending both SAT2s. It’s very much a ‘calculated risk.’ But you’re strong, have potential as an engineering student, and have safeties.
Make sure your LoRs are good, especially the stem. Have that polite conversation with the teachers. You don’t want a form letter, “She did well in my class and is in x, y, z clubs.” (Or the unbelievably common, “She comes to class with a smile and her homework done.”) Rather, more about the energies and qualities.
@lookingforward Thank you for all the advice!
And thank you to all the others who offered input on this thread. I really appreciate it!