Which is more competitive for applying to top colleges: AP Exams or SAT Subject Tests? I know AP Exams count for college credit, but which one looks better on the application? I am thinking about taking some SAT Subject Tests next year (Biology, maybe Math I as well).
SAT2’s (usually 2) are required or recommended at some schools. You need to look at the admissions requirements for each school you are interested in.
@BKSquared What about APs?
AP scores for the most part are self reported. There is some level of expectation at the selective colleges that if you have taken AP courses in high school that you will have taken the related AP tests (subject to time and monetary constraints), and that the test scores should correlate with your grades. By and large AP scores are used for placement rather than credit at the top schools. Again each school is different as to AP credit/placement policy. Of course all other things being equal, having high scores in several AP’s is better than fewer high scores, but in the grand scheme of things, I would prioritize maxing your SAT/ACT scores, then your SAT2 scores before AP scores.
Some top schools require or highly recommend SAT2s for admissions.
AP tests are for you to maybe get credit or to get placement in college. They are not really used for admissions…many people take AP tests after they are already admitted.
Great answer, thanks @BKSquared
Thank you! @bopper