I’m a senior in high school and getting ready for college apps etc. I saw that the PSAT cutoffs for CO/17 have been released recently and I think I qualified (225). However, I haven’t taken the SAT yet and unless I do so I won’t be able to become a finalist.
On another note, my parents also want me to take SAT subject tests since they think my scores of 770 in Math II and 720 in Chemistry aren’t sufficient.
I am mainly looking at applying to UC schools and some liberal arts colleges such as Claremont McKenna, Amherst, Boston College, etc.
My main questions are:
- Which should be my first priority, retaking SAT subject tests or taking the new SAT?
- Is taking the SAT worth it for being a NM finalist or is semifinalist good enough?
- Are my SAT subject test scores really that bad/going to hurt me?
- What would you say is the latest date I could take SAT subject tests and still report them to UCs? (app due at end of November)
Thanks to everyone who answers, and best of luck to everyone applying!
First, yes, you qualified, congratulations! Second, check the dates for submission of confirming SAT score NMSF and see which testing date best fits your overall schedule for admissions. If you are applying ED or EA anywhere, that could affect your planning.
YES!!! Take the SAT. NMF is a big deal and will help with your admissions. Depending on where you apply, it can also be very beneficial financially.
Have you taken the ACT? If you haven’t, you will need to take it or the SAT as soon as possible if you have November deadlines.
As for your subject tests, personally, I think the Math II is fine - there is not much difference between an 800 and 770 and your acceptances or rejections will not turn on 30 points. As for the chemistry, depends where you are applying and what your intended major is. Conventional wisdom here on CC is that 750+ scores are good enough for just about anywhere.
Good luck!
Thanks so much for your response!
Yes, I already took the ACT and got a 35, so I would be taking the SAT simply for the purpose of NMF, which is why I wasn’t sure if it was worth it.
For the subject tests, like I said, I’m mainly looking at UC schools for a biochemistry major. I know the 720 isn’t great, but I got a 4 on the AP test which is harder so I thought it would be alright. I’ll probably end up retaking it though.
Once, again thanks a lot!
Congratulations on your great scores! I called Princeton’s admissions a few weeks ago and asked about SAT subject scores. She said anything above 700 is fine.
@MomofThree95 Thank you very much, and thanks for the great info! 