Retake SAT or take SAT subject tests?

Test Preparation
1

Okay, so I’m in a bit of a dilemma.
I already took the October SAT and got 1490. I’m applying RD to a number of selective schools that do not “require” but do “consider” and “recommend” that one takes the SAT subject tests.
But here’s the dilemma: I only have one date left to take the SAT/SAT subject tests (December 1st) before the RD deadline.

What would be more beneficial: Retaking the SAT and increasing my score by, realistically, 50 points or taking two SAT subject tests and doing very well?

2

SAT II recommended means to take them unless they aren’t offered anywhere near you or you absolutely can’t afford it.

3

Sure, but what if the choice were between taking the SAT and improving 50 points and the SAT subject tests for a school like Amherst that only “considers” SAT subject tests?

4

I’d take the subject tests.

5

How many of the schools on your list recommend SAT subject scores? Your 1490 puts you in the 98/99th percentile of all test takers. You are so close to 1500, that I would personally take the subject tests if the majority of your schools recommend them.

6

Are all the colleges on your list “like Amherst” or do some “recommend” Subject Tests?

You misspelled “hopefully.” I “realistically” planned to win the $1.6B Mega Millions jackpot, but that did not happen.

That does not tell us much. A 740/750 is probably not worth retaking, while a 690/800 might be, But you’re only giving us crumbs here. A more complete understanding would yield better advice.

7

Agree that too little information is shared by OP.

Would help to know actual scores by section on the SAT, targeted schools & desired major course of study.

8

Only one school “recommends” them while the others “consider” them. I’m not sure how seriously one is supposed to take it when schools “consider” them (especially, since I also have IB subject tests).

Also, the 1490 was indeed 750 reading/writing and 740 in math. I have also taken IB subject tests, which maybe acts as a sort of substitute for SAT subject tests?
In any case, I would want to take SAT subject tests in chemistry and US history.

9

Nope. It doesn’t.

With the clarification, I would opt for the Subject Tests as the 750/740 will not be the reason any college rejects you.