I am currently considering taking four SAT subject tests, with those being chemistry, math II, biology M, and Latin. I want to go to college and either major in classics or biology or maybe even both. I’m also considering applying for BS/MD programs, which is the reason I’m considering taking the chem subject test. Should I take all four or just restrict myself to the first two? It’s personally confusing because I want to major in two subjects but certain programs require certain tests. The Latin subject test seems really easy since I’ve taken three years of Latin, so that’s also something to consider. Which ones should I take?
Look at some colleges you are interested in and see what they require.
For STEM majors, take science/math SAT2s.
Take the 2 you will get the highest scores on based on practice tests. If applying to Georgetown, take 3. Some programs have a preference for Math II and Chem, with those you will be prepared for anything.
Current Princeton student here.
Really depends on what schools you’re aiming for.
I’d say in general the bare minimum is more than enough (eg 2) so don’t stress yourself over taking too many. That time is better spent crafting a powerful essay. College readers will glance over your SAT II scores in a matter of seconds, they’ll spend a decent fraction of their ~8 minutes reading your essays, so work on that.
So the questions you should ask yourself are
- Can you show evidence of academic prowess via APs + good test scores?
- Are your other test scores up to notch, eg ACT/SAT?
- How are you crafting your “persona” to colleges, does this include a Latin interest bent?
If 1 & 2 are yes, then 2 is enough. If 1 & 2 are iffy, then you might want to consider taking more than 2. (3) requires a lot more in depth thought.
I’m helping out students on CC for an entrepreneurship class project and giving out complimentary analysis of your app, so if you need more help, feel free to message me.
For other than Georgetown (which wants three), you do not need any more than two subject tests for admission. If applying science or engineering, you often need a math (math 2 for some) and a science and it can be biology, chemistry, or physics. Taking more than two,if the two scores are high, is unnecessary for admission other than for Georgetown. However, taking Latin could be a choice if considering a third because some colleges use language tests for placement after you are admitted.
Are you a rising senior? The maximum number you can take in one sitting is 3.
If you have taken the NLE and done well in that, the Latin subject test is probably slightly redundant.
Take at least one STEM and the second should be one where you will test the strongest.
If you aren’t taking AP Latin it is worth taking the Latin subject test to potentially be able to test out of the foreign language requirement at some colleges.