Should I retake the SAT or take SAT subject tests?

Currently I am scheduled for the sat subject tests this fall (bio and math 2). I took the old version of the SAT, and I have a final score of 2050. I know this isn’t good enough for the schools I am applying to but there’s only one last opportunity to take the SAT and if I take the regular test and do well on it then I won’t have SAT subject tests to go along with it. I know they say they are optional but I feel like not having them might hurt my admissions. I am applying ED to Northwestern.

Also, Northwestern only looks at CR and Math apparently, and my score for that is a 1350 (horribly low). My writing was a 700 but supposedly they don’t even look at writing, so now my score looks a lot worse.

Improving your SAT scores is more important, in this case, than adding Subject Tests. Your other option is ACT and Subject Tests (I think in another thread you mention that you plan on taking both the SAT and ACT). If you decide to take the October SAT, take the Subject Tests in November. You may be able to get them to Northwestern before they make decisions, and you’ll have them available for other colleges should you need them.