Should I Take the SAT a Third Time or Take My Subject Tests?

<p>Currently I have a 2040 (620 M, 670 CR, 750 W)...I want to apply to some really selective colleges like Barnard, Middlebury, Oberlin, Williams, and University of Virginia. The problem is, though, I think I should apply to one of these schools ED, but I haven't taken all of my subject tests yet.</p>

<p>I got a 700 on US History, 680 on World History, and 650 on English Literature.</p>

<p>Unless I can submit the two highest subject tests, should I consider taking the SAT a third time? I feel like I really need to get CR to at least 700 and math to a 650. Hopefully it's doable. </p>

<p>Thoughts? </p>

<p>Thanks!</p>

<p>If you’re willing to dedicate yourself to SAT study over the summer, I think it would be a good idea to retake the SAT reasoning test at least one more time.</p>

<p>On the topic of Subject tests…</p>

<p>How many Subject tests do you really need to take?
You’ve already taken three different Subject tests.</p>

<p>Oberlin doesn’t ask for any Subject test scores.</p>

<p>UVA “strongly recommends” that an applicant submits an unspecified number of Subject test scores.</p>

<p>Barnard and Williams only require two Subject test scores.</p>

<p>Technically speaking, an applicant to Middlebury doesn’t need to submit any Subject scores. The school requests that applicants submit standardized test scores from one of the three following options: (1) SAT reasoning test, (2) ACT, or (3) three Subject tests.</p>

<p>If you’re a good math student and you’ve completed a trig/precalculus/intermediate algebra class, you may want to consider taking the Math Level 2 test. The curve is very generous. With the right prep book, you should be able to perform well.</p>

<p>Don’t feel pressured into applying ED. It’s entirely appropriate to hold off and apply Regular Decision if you’re trying to pump up your standardized test scores in the fall of senior year.</p>

<p>Have you thought about taking the ACT?</p>

<p>Very helpful!</p>

<p>I’ve heard that the ACT is a lot more…reasonable for those who are better at math and science. I find my strengths to lie in language and words, and between my SAT and an ACT practice test, my SAT was a lot higher (28 vs. 2040…yikes).</p>

<p>I’m just wondering if my subject test scores are “competitive” enough to send in…if not, I think it’s in my best interest to retake the SAT.</p>

<p>Thanks for the feedback!</p>

<p>FYI - just a note on Williams - my D is a legacy who applied last year (not ED though) and was rejected with 32 ACT and subject test scores of 700 US Hist and 680 Eng lit. She was told in her legacy interview with Dean of Admissions (she talked to him for 45 minutes and he saw her resume, transcript, etc.) that if there was a weakness in her app, it was her scores. Williams really expects mid-700s on the subject tests. Of course, admissions are holistic so some applicants with lower scores and other strengths are accepted. Not saying to not apply, just sharing info that we got from the horses mouth. YMMV</p>