Hi everyone, this question is not just about subject tests but standardized test submission in general, and could apply to many people.
I’m apply to 8 highly selective schools (6 are Ivy Leagues, if that’s what you’re into lol). Most/All of them recommend 2 subject tests, if you take the SAT, but not if you take the ACT. Therefore, I could submit none, especially because the subject tests aren’t required, just highly recommended.
I intend to submit both SAT AND ACT, so I don’t have to submit subject test scores; however, my Bio M score was good (750) and I want to submit it. I don’t want to submit my Math 2 (700). Would it be frowned upon if I just submitted 1 subject test, when they specifically ask for either 2 or 0? Admission officers would likely deduce that I got a bad score on another exam if I just submit Bio, because no one just takes ONE subject test?
Opinions and discussions are welcome. I understand that this is somewhat silly, and that even a bad subject test score is just “extra data” for the admission officers to understand me. Thanks!
I would recommend sending the Bio score. One subject test is better than none.
you’re overthinking it, sending a good score can only help.
@DryMango - when I checked with my regional AO, they clearly said regardless of SAT or ACT, they strongly recommend 2x SAT IIs. IMHO - if they recommend 2 SAT IIs, submit the two. BTW - 700 in Math 2 is a good score - regardless of what the percentile tells you - unless you are a Math major aspirant.
“Recommended” is often seen as “required” for applicants from advantaged situations (e.g. high schools with counselors well versed in college admissions topics, including SAT subject tests, recommendations, etc.). The colleges may give some slack on missing “recommended” items to applicants from disadvantaged situations, where one may not even know of the need to take SAT subject tests until it is too late to meet the deadline, but it looks like this does not apply to you.
Thank you so much everyone! Very very helpful information.
@MedSciBud, do you know how much a 700 in Math II is, percentile-wise?
https://secure-media.collegeboard.org/digitalServices/pdf/sat/sat-percentile-ranks-subject-tests-2015.pdf says that 700 on Math Level 2 is 48th percentile. However, Math Level 2 test takers are self-selected for strength in math (at least one year advanced in math compared to what is normal in the US, and applying to colleges selective enough to want to see SAT subject tests).