I know SAT || is optional to submit it, but how important is it? Is it important to take the one that is related to or major? Also, around what score range will look good? Is it ok NOT to submit the scores?
I would say they are fairly important depending on what your intended major is. For example, for a SEAS applicant, admissions officers would like to see scores for math and science subject tests, preferably Math 2 and Physics. But its different for everyone. Hope that helps!
Penn requires that you send in every test score you take, so there is no option to “not submit the scores.” However, unless you are doing engineering or business (which would probably prefer you to take at least Math II), I do not think they are super important in the admissions process. It doesn’t hurt to do well in them though!
Check the Admissions web site for the 2017 Admissions cycle to be certain. Penn used to “strongly suggest” that you take 2 of them. This year the admissions web site for 2016 indicated that an applicant would not be penalized if she or he didn’t take them. But if you do take them, they must be submitted. My kid unfortunately took them before that was changed and had to report the scores. Certain schools do suggest you take certain Subject tests. For instance, Wharton mentions Math 2.
I just checked and for the 2016 Application cycle, under “What Penn Looks for” it says 2 SAT Subject Tests are recommended. Then further down the page it says the following regarding the SAT Subject tests: “Recommended Testing
SAT Subject Tests are recommended but not required. Applicants who do not take SAT Subject Tests will not be at a disadvantage in the admissions process.” There is also a chart indicating which specific tests are recommended for each school. Talk about mixed messages! I hope this helps.
@Rosyln Do you know roughly when the 2017 Admissions info. will be updated on the Penn website, including the new essays prompts, test scores, etc.?
@BL2017 I am sorry, I do not. I just went through this with my kid which is how I know this. Last year it said one thing about the SAT subject tests and this year the language said something else. I also heard from a counselor that in 2017 they may not be counting the essay portion of any SAT (old or new) at all, but again, that is not yet on the web site yet. I do know the essay prompts became available some time in the summer last year. I would definitely call the Admissions office and ask. And if you get someone that is unhelpful, call again at another time.