<p>How important is it to take the SATII tests? Last year I was extremely stressed out because I was preparing for the SATI, ACT and the AP US History exam so at the last minute I decided that it was not worth being overwhelmed and preparing for the subject tests. At all of the schools I'm applying to, the SATII tests are "recommended". Even at my #1, NYU, the tests are going to be required for admission in 2007. I know that it would be better if I took at least one of the tests but is it really worth all the trouble?</p>
<p>Yes, when they say recommended, it really means that all else being equal, they want to see those tests. Anything that is recommended that you don't do, will be the kind of thing that will cause the admissions people to wonder about. Unless there are extenuating circumstances, or you have a major hook, you should take them.</p>
<p>I don't know what any major hooks are but besides that I have 4 generations worth of legacy at NYU. My only concern about taking the tests last year was that if I did poorly on them, I would have to send them no matter what. And considering I did better on the ACT than on the SAT, I am now going to focus on improving my ACT score. I have plenty to offer without SATIIs. I don't know... this is just one miniscule thing I'm worrying about. And with the little amount of time that I would have to prepare, I don't think it's feasible.</p>
<p>ACT is comparable to SAT + SAT II...so if you do well on ACT, forget all your SAT I and SAT II scores</p>
<p>ACT does replace subject scores, but I'd say that it can't hurt to at least take them. If you get a really good score then it can be a major plus and if not, just use the ACT. You spent time studing for APUSH, you could take the USHis Subject test with some review and probably do well. Plus, they are only an hour so there is minimal stress. Whatever you decide to do, best of luck! :)</p>
<p>Take the SAT II's. If you do poorly don't worry just don't send them in. Since you said you did better on the ACT, don't send in a SAT score report unless your SAT score is not that much lower than your ACT.</p>
<p>One of the reasons I decided against it was because I had no idea whether I would do better on the ACT so I didn't want to get bad scores because I would have to send them in. I was extremely overwhelmed at the time and I just couldn't handle another history test. </p>
<p>My SAT score (with prep) was an 1860. That's an 1190 combined CR+Math.</p>
<p>My ACT score (with no prep) was a 27. Which is roughly a 1220 converted. So I figure, hey, with some prep I can easily raise my score. I didn't know how to take the test at all when I took it.</p>
<p>Anyway, at this point AP US is ancient history (ha, I crack myself up) and there's no way I would do well on it now. I don't think I'm going to take them.</p>
<p>Thanks everyone for your help! I've been a watcher on this forum and it's nice to finally post and get some good advice.</p>