Excessive Numbers of Subject Tests

Test Preparation SAT Subject Test Preparation
1

<p>I can understand why most people take 2 subject tests--because most top schools require them.
I can understand why some people take 4-5 subject tests--because they want to show breadth of knowledge and take a test in each subject area (ie. 1 in each of math, science, english, history, and possibly a language).</p>

<p>But what exactly is the point of taking 6+? I don't really see how taking both history tests, or all the science tests improves your app. With overlaps, it hardly makes you any more academically well-rounded than if you just took 4-5.</p>

<p>But then again, would it make you stand out as a sort of "test-taking jock" (if you managed to pull all 780-800s)?</p>

<p>So what do you guys think? Is it worth it to go for 6+?</p>

2

<p>Yikes. I don’t know anyone who has taken more than 3. </p>

<p>I think it would be a waste of your time and money, and you could definitely be doing other things with both of those.</p>

3

<p>“Test-taking jock” LOL。。。哈哈。。。</p>

4

<p>So for international students, can SAT II be considered as replacements for APs ? So can 6+ SAT II help ?</p>

5

<p>Taking 6+ subject tests usually means 3 or more sittings which is just hell for the SATII alone. I just liked to get them over with once:</p>

<p>Chem 800
Math II 800
Latin 730</p>

6

<p>If you believe you will score high and if you can afford it, then go ahead</p>

7

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</p>

<p>Nah, it won’t earn you any credit hours.</p>

8

<p>So can SAT II show academic achievements in different subjects as APs? Because international students cant take APs? I heard that APs show academic challenge or something like that. How can admission officers judge academic ability just on GPA because it is different between schools and countries? Can standardize test help? ( I mean 700+ for each SAT II )</p>

9

<p>I think that you are correct that standardized testing can help international students in the way that you mentioned. If you are able to take a few SAT II’s and get stellar grades, it could potentially show achievement in subjects- like the AP tests do for students in America. However, keep in mind that whereas the AP tests have grades of 1 - 5, the SAT II’s have a much more widespread range of grades. You’d have to do really well on the subject tests (750+) to impress admission officers at top colleges if you want to show academic achievement. Also, be sure to mention on your application the reason that you’re taking the tests (like you described above). Good luck!</p>