I’m taking the Math II, Chemistry, and Molecular Biology subject exams, and I am worried. If I do poorly on these, (like 600/less, will my chance of getting into Northwestern drastically decrease, even if i have a 4.0, many extracurriculars, and a 34 ACT? Are the subject tests really important in this decision?
Umm, your 4.0 and 34 shows that you clearly know how to study for an exam. I do not think you should have much difficulty with these exams. Nevertheless, you should check the requirements for NW. Keep in mind that even if NW does not require these subject scores, it may improve your chances. Also look at the people who have gotten in in the past. Have they had exceptional subject test scores? Finally, below a 600 would definitely hurt you. To what extent I cannot say but if you are on the brink of getting in, another student with better test scores could push you out.
@pk1jk1 does that mean I would be better off not submitting these scores?
This question is moot. Don’t worry about stuff that may not happen; the admissions process is stressful enough. You are obviously capable to performing well on the Subject Tests. If and only if you actually score <600, then come back and ask the question.
OP: I posted this back in June on another thread - but I think it applies here too:
My son applied to Northwestern Engineering, where SAT 2s are “recommended not required”. He called the Admissions Dept about them (he didn’t want to take any more tests!) and was told that the SAT 2s are for students that would like to show strength in an area that is not reflected in their grades and/or AP Tests. Since he had a 4.0 GPA and scored all 5s on his APs - he did not take any SAT 2s and was admitted ED.