Retaking SAT or subject tests?

<p>Hi, I got a bit of a late start on my standardized testing. </p>

<p>In June of my junior year, I took the SAT for the first time and got a 2030,
M:670
W:670
CR: 690</p>

<p>took it again in October of this year with a 102 degree fever and nausea and got a 2010 (I didn't prep for either test).
M: 680
W: 660
CR: 670</p>

<p>So my super score is a 2040. I was planning on taking the SAT for one last time in January with studying to shoot for a 2150+, however, I got my subject test scores back a few days ago and they weren't very good (again, didn't study).</p>

<p>Physics: 600
Math II: 670</p>

<p>Which test is more heavily weighted? Should I retake the subject tests or the reasoning test in January? Will my low physics score hurt me significantly?</p>

<p>For some perspective, I'm an African American female planning to major in computer science and my top choices are Brown, Johns Hopkins, and Columbia. So, subject tests are required in both a math and a science in order for me to apply.</p>

<p>Thanks to anyone who can help!</p>

<p>Anyone? :(</p>

<p>There is not much time to prepare between now and the January test. Statistically if you retake the SAT without study, preparation or change in test taking strategy you end up with the same score (actually slightly lower score according to the college board).</p>

<p>So which of the tests have you studied for? Have you achieved a real improvement on genuine College Board practice tests as a result of the preparation? If not then the answer to your question is merely a guess.</p>

<p>In my opinion, I believe the SAT I test is looked at more.</p>

<p>And if you do decide to take the SAT II, why not try a science test that you are more likely to do better at. I know Physics is pretty challenging.</p>

<p>If you took the SAT when you were sick, then you don’t really know how you would do if you were well. Assuming you were well when you took the subject tests, they are probably a more accurate score. If being sick affected your score, then the test that may improve the most would be SAT-I when you are well.</p>

<p>I feel like I can significantly improve on both the SAT and the subject tests with preparation. My dilemma is in choosing which one to raise my score on in January. I’m not exactly sure if the SAT or the subject tests are more heavily weighted in admission decisions. My only option is to either take the SAT in January and raise that score or take the subjects again in January and raise those scores.</p>

<p>I would say subject tests. Did you take the ACT this month?</p>

<p>Why subject tests? Your SAT I scores are probably 20-30 points in each category below the 25th percentile for those accepted into Columbia, Brown, and John Hopkins. That will be negligible at most.</p>

<p>Your Subject Tests on the other hand, are much, much lower. I would say maybe 100 points? That could possibly hurt you.</p>

<p>Work on your subject tests in my opinion, they will be easier to raise IMO. Use PR for Math, and Physics I have no idea, Barron/PR would be a good choice as well.</p>

<p>Hm, so subject tests it is then! Thank you!</p>

<p>well, it’s already december, and attempting to cram prepping for the SAT reasoning in one month is difficult. Your scores aren’t bad. I’d say prep for the subject test. At least you know what you’re tested on. Good luck!</p>