<p>How "recommended" are the SAT subject tests in CALS?</p>
<p>aka do you absolutely need them. or, are they just optional. I took the math, but I really don't want to take a science</p>
<p>I could. But I'd rather not, unless it was absolutely necessary?</p>
<p>I’m in the same boat. I actually checked this out on the website and they say, “we encourage students to submit two SAT Subject Tests (mathematics, and a science).”
So I guess it’s not neccessary to have a science, but preferable. They’re kind of vague. Here’s the CALS link for admission criteria: [CALS</a> Admissions: Selection Criteria](<a href=“http://www.cals.cornell.edu/cals/prospective/admissions/applying/first-year/selection.cfm]CALS”>http://www.cals.cornell.edu/cals/prospective/admissions/applying/first-year/selection.cfm)
Hope that helps!</p>
<p>When usually something says recommended, it pretty much means take it. I’m pretty sure most or all my friends in CALS at least had one science SAT II anyway.</p>
<p>As for SAT Subject tests, the general rule of thumb is: “The more the merrier.”</p>
<p>And more, in all respects, including how high you score.</p>
<p>Johnny One can take every single SAT II with his highest score being 540 while Billy Two can take three SAT IIs, scoring in the 700-800 range and be far better off.</p>
<p>I’d recommend that you take the tests you feel you can prepare adequately for, and know you can do well on. Recommended or not, if you do badly, it looks weird when compared to your school grades.</p>
<p>“Whoa there, Lizzie has an A- in Advanced Chemistry at school, but only scored 640 on her SAT II? Hmmmm…”</p>
<p>What SAT II test you take should be more related to your intended major, rather than your college. Also, do consider your strength and weaknesses and pick wisely. But I agree with Hemingway, higher scores = better chance.</p>