<p>My son just submitted his application for UPenn Engineering, and then found out that UPenn Engineering is strongly encouraging applicants to take M2 and Physics tests. He only took SAT Subject Tests in M2, Chemistry and Biology. However, he did take ACT also. From UPenn website, it said it requires either SAT I and two SAT subject tests, or ACT test with writing. My understanding is that since his ACT score is slightly better (C 35), he may not be required to submit SAT Subject Test anyway. He did submit all his scores (SAT, ACT and SAT Subject Tests). At the same time, he does not want to put him in a disadvantage position. Any thought on it?</p>
<p>I guess he can take the physics test in late January. But if the school is ok with his ACT without subject test, he probably tries not to take it since he gets other more important stuff to do.</p>
<p>I was admitted into SEAS during the ED round and took the Physics test alongside the M2 and Chem. That being said Physics was my worst test and I did poorly by Penn’s standards (720). I think that an application isn’t made or broken by one component so I wouldn’t worry too much if the rest of his app is strong. Taking the test would cover all bases, but if he doesn’t do well it may prove counter productive. At the end of the day I think that it won’t make much one test score won’t make much of a difference in the admissions process. I think this because so many applicants will be alike in terms of scores and GPAs and so numbers won’t be the best way to find the ‘holistic student’ Penn says it is looking for. High ones will grab their attention, but in the end I think they are just a way to guarantee getting the proverbial foot in the door. They will look at the quality of the ECs and positions held in them and above all I think they will be looking very closely at the rec letters and the essays by the student to find a student who is more than an academic. Weighing it all up, I think one test won’t make a difference at this point.</p>