SAT II Significance

Test Preparation
1

<p>I suppose this is a common question but: how much do SAT IIs matter? If looking at more top-tier (ie. top 10-20) schools, are perfect 800 SAT II scores expected across the board? Or better yet, could imperfect SAT II scores have a strongly negative impact on how you appear as a whole?</p>

<p>In my particular instance, I've only taken two SAT II tests, one in 9th grade (Bio M 760) and one in 10th grade (Math II 780). I'm looking to apply to colleges with an interest in biological sciences or possibly engineering (in which case I will be taking the Physics SAT II in October). Could not having a higher score on the Bio SAT II hurt my chances? (Is it worth retaking? Right now I'm not inclined to since I took the test after taking honors biology in 9th grade, and I took AP Biology last year with a 5 on the AP test but I hear that APs and SAT IIs are often judged and considered differently by colleges.)</p>

2

<p>I don’t think top Colleges lay much emphasis on SAT IIs, I believe once you are 700+, you are fine. Although in schools like HYPS, they have a lot of perfect 800s applicants. But your scores aren’t bad, so if your SATs, grades and ECs are good you have a decent shot at them.</p>

3

<p>Those are great scores for any school. Scores of 750+ are ideal and you are there already.</p>