<p>I would like to apply to top schools such as Ivies, MIT, UC,
Berkeley, Stanford, and so on in order to study biology. Someone told me that I should submit the three science subject test scores (physics, chemistry and biology) as well as a math score even though the schools do not require us to take four subject tests. Is this true?</p>
<p>If I actually need to turn in only two (or three) subject tests, which one should I choose? I am thinking to take math II and biology (and US history), but I'm not sure if the two (or the three) are the best combination.</p>
<p>It is in your best interest to take 3 subject tests, since that is the most cost efficient. (take it on one day)
It is not true that u have to take all 3 science tests, it is a ridiculous claim, and your friend may be trying to sabotage you.
I agree with lolcats4, just take math2 (id say the most important subject test), 1 science (im guessing you'd like bio) and 1 humanities (since you like USH)</p>
<p>While it may be more cost-effective to take three subject tests in one day, that may not be the best strategy for you in terms of preparation and stamina. I agree that three tests are plenty, especially if you also have AP scores and good grades in these subjects. Math 2, History, and one science is a good choice, because it shows some variety.</p>
<p>No you do not need more than the number of tests required and having extra does not really add anything to whether you will be admitted (except that a number of the colleges will use your highest two if you submit more and thus taking a third is usually advisable if you blow one of the first two for colleges that require two). Only three colleges require 3 SAT IIs -- Harvard, Princeton and Georgetown, so you should take three if you plan to apply to one of those. Otherwise only two are needed. Stanford actually requires no SAT IIs. It does recommend submitting two and it recommends that one of those be Math IIc. If you are applying engineering or science, the best combination is math and a science, in fact some (MIT included) require that combination for applying for engineering or science.</p>
<p>Look on the websites for admission requirements to find out SAT II requirements.</p>
<p>Ex. Olin requires a math and a science SAT II. Rice requires 2 SAT IIs, preferably in the area in which you want to apply. In other words, Rice isn't all that interested in looking at SAT IIs in USH and French if you hope to major in computer sci. </p>
<p>Always be careful about advice anywhere but on the school website; colleges change requirements and you want to be up to date.</p>
<p>The most usual advice is to take subject tests in diverse fields (such as math, science, humanities.) Certain schools may only be interested in seeing tests in the field you wish to study, but if I was you I'd go with the traditional advice because you'll probably be applying to a number of schools. Your plan of taking Math2, a science, and USH sounds like a good one that will cover all your bases. Even if you only <em>need</em> two tests, if one school just wants to see science/math then you're all set, if another school wants to see a little breadth, you're good to go there too.</p>
<p>(I wouldn't do them all in one day, either, if it can be helped.)</p>
<p>Thank you, all of you!! I feel relieved now. I thought taking four subject tests would be a great burden (to me). Although if it were indeed necessary, I would be willing to do it, I prefer to use more time for something else (such as GPA, extracurriculars and application essays).</p>
<p>hmmm, i'm taking three tests. i took chemistry and math 2 (780 and 800 respectiely) but i'll be retaking chemistry for the 800 and i'll also take physics.</p>