Subject Tests: One or None?

I won’t bore anyone with backstory, but I’ve found myself in a position where I can only submit one subject test score to Rice by ED. While a 770 on Math II is pretty average in terms of their applicants I COULD see it potentially reinforcing my skill in the subject. While Rice recommends two, an admissions officer on a tour I took last week said submitting only one if possible by the ED deadline would be fine. Not to doubt the school, but I’ve seen some things suggesting otherwise in terms of submitting 1 when colleges recommend 2, in many cases saying that, if optional, submitting 0 is the better way to go.

What’re your thoughts on this?

For reference, I’m applying to the Brown School of Engineering.

My daughter got in ED for the class of 2022 and submitted no subject test scores. The year she applied was the first year it was “optional”. If you have strong AP/IB scores or have an ACT score to back your SAT there is no need to worry if it is a deciding factor in admission. Be confident in your application and I hope it goes your way!

I’m of the opinion that if it doesn’t help your application than don’t submit just one.

Is a 67th percentile (770 Math II) help your application for Engineering?

My daughter was also accepted into Engineering at Rice with no subject test scores last year. However, she did have both the ACT and SAT to submit and strong math AP scores.