Should I take SAT Subject Tests?

Test Preparation SAT Subject Test Preparation
1

Hey guys,

I know the SAT subject tests are over and that there won’t be any new ones for a while. I finished my junior year recently and I’m about to start the college process. I’ve heard some chatter amongst my friends about SAT II’s and I’ve wondered if I should take some.

None of the colleges I’m applying to require any, but I’m unsure whether they’ll give me an advantage in the admissions process.

I want to do something along the lines of computer science/math/engineering in college.The earliest I can take a subject test is October, and that will be the first and final time I’ll take it before an early action deadline. If I take SAT II’s, I’ll most likely take Math II and/or Physics.

This summer, I’m very busy with an internship and I’m unsure if I’ll have enough time to study. Also, I’m not sure how much I need to study for these tests to get a good score.

Can anyone help me out here?

Thanks!

2

In our college search for my kids I noticed that while many schools did not require the tests, certain majors (namely engineering) did (and usually the Math 2 and a science). Since you are interested in this major, I would double check the requirements to be sure. But if you took the Math 2 and physics, I imagine you’d be covered.

3

Yes, math2 and physics are not difficult and high SAT2 scores will help your application even if they are optional. And concerning your intended major, I think you should take them.

4

@Anfernee @ClaremontMom , thank you for your feedback. I cross checked all the schools I’m applying to (even engineering) and they still do not require subject tests. However, I think I can do well on a Math II subject test. I will consider taking it, and possibly physics.

EDIT: I will probably only be able to take a test once to submit them to my Early Action colleges. I know that I can get a better score a second time, so that is also a factor. How many times, @Anfernee did you take your subject tests before you got the score you wanted? Once again, thank you.

5

Hey, I am an Asian student and I took Math2, Physics and Chemistry and got 800 in each subject once. You know, that is not very difficult for us… I think you can give yourself a chance to show how academically prepared you are. And if you spend enough efforts, you can get your ideal score in the first take!