SAT Subject Tests and Admission

Applying to College
1

I have recently been doing research into the requirements for SAT Subject Tests. Specifically, Harvard has this posted on their website.

“and we normally require two Subject Tests. You should not submit two Subject Tests in mathematics to meet this requirement. If your first language is not English you should ordinarily not use a Subject Test in your first language to meet the two Subject Tests requirement. All students are encouraged to submit additional Subject Tests (which may include one in your first language), Advanced Placement or International Baccalaureate test results, or any other evidence of the breadth and depth of your academic accomplishments. While we normally require two SAT Subject Tests, you may apply without them if the cost of taking the tests represents a financial hardship or if you prefer to have your application considered without them. Standardized testing is only one component of our admissions process and your application will be evaluated based on the information that you submit.”

So if this just a nice way of saying if you don’t have SAT STs then you have no chance of admission, or would I be able to report very good AP scores and IB scores and have a good app and still have an equal shot. Someone help.

2

They no longer require it but still recommend. I would suggest to take it if you can.

3

Will you be hurt as an applicant for not submitting scores though even if you have all other “qualifications” per say.

4

Unless you have a good reason why you could not take the SAT Subjects tests (and I can only think of a financial burden), then to be competitive it would appear that they expect 2 subject test scores to be submitted with your application.

5

You probably would considering that a lot of other people have all the other qualifications with the two subject test scores. By not having the subject test scores, you lose a very easily obtained competitive advantage.