Hello, I am a rising senior and I’m debating whether or not it is worth the extra time to take two subject tests in October. All of the schools on my list don’t require (but recommend) subject tests. I would be taking the Biology-M and Chemistry tests,I scored a 5 on both of the respective AP tests so I wanted to know if this was sufficient in order to show my mastery of these subjects on my application. I know that taking them can’t really hurt me (unless I do poorly, in which case I just won’t report them) but I don’t want to spend money registering for them if they will not substantially enhance my application. Also, I plan on applying Early Decision and I am slightly worried that my scores will not be back in time for me to send them with my app, unless I directly send my scores to the school (and I definitely want to look at the scores before I send them) Any thoughts? The registration deadline is coming up and I need to make a decision.
I think that at schools that “recommend” SAT IIs, they can’t hurt your application unless the scores are really bad. The colleges probably would like to see the additional effort to take them, if it is feasible for you. Since you clearly have a mastery of the material, I think you should take them.
Will you be a STEM major?
@yonceonhismouth Yeah, I guess it could give me an additional boost
@CADREAMIN I currently plan on majoring in biochemistry, so yes
I’d say that it really depends on the school ! Some schools that “recommend” these tests basically require them…but usually those are the very selective schools. For example, UPenn “recommends” two subject tests…and competitive applicants will have two subject tests, with good scores (unless very unique scenario)!
If you do well, a subject test can enhance your application, though it is by no means a “hook”, especially for competitive school admissions. It does prove, even more than AP tests, that you have academic aptitude in a specific subject and can “justify” your prospective major. Getting 5’s on the tests means you are definitely capable of understanding the material! However, keep in mind that subject tests are very different from AP exams (specific, MC only vs broad scope including FRQ’s/Open Response, Speaking and Essay Writing for certain exams), and a 5 in an AP exam is NOT equal to an 800 on a Subject Test.
However, if you have time to prepare for the exams (you should start now if you haven’t already so you can get them in before the deadlines…might be tight, but if you still remember the material, you should be fine!), I suggest going for it, unless you are not applying to very selective schools that practice holistic admissions/actually state that they recommend these exams.
Good luck!!