Take SAT Again or Two Additional Subject Tests?

As the application process is beginning to pick up for 2018, I have been working on completing some of my final requirements for said application. In the testing area, I scored a 36 on the ACT, but I also took the SAT for National Merit and scored a 1550 (750 CR+W, 800 M). Although I believe this is a good score, I am sure I could do better given the time during the summer–time which I did not have during the school year–to work on the reading section, where I missed all 5 of my questions. At the same time, I am taking/considering taking the subject tests on each of the next two test dates–the last two before November 1, the early decision deadline for Stanford (and I don’t necessarily want to wait until regular decision if I don’t have to). I’ll be taking Math 2 and Physics in June–although Stanford merely recommends them I feel it is still nice to have them–but I also am considering tests in Spanish and French in October as this is one of the only ways during the remaining months to prove my proficiency in those languages. (I don’t think there is a limit on the number of SAT II’s that can be reported, but if there is let me know.)

Obviously I cannot take both the regular SAT and the SAT II in October, and I was wondering what you think regarding which one I should take. Personally, I feel that scoring high on these subject tests would add more than an extra 50 points on the SAT, as it would show that I am proficient to an extent in three languages.

You already have a 36 on ACT. A 1600 SAT would not show the admissions officers much besides you can score high on another similar, standardized test. If an important facet of your overall application is the fact that you can speak multiple languages, then it would be best to take the subject tests instead of SAT. Basically, just take whatever would highlight your proficiency/interests in certain areas, and don’t waste money otherwise.

First, you DO NOT need to take SAT1 anymore with an ACT score of 36. If anything, just fulfill the SAT2 requirement for certain schools. Why waste your money and time on retaking SAT1 which would not give you any advantage even with 1600. You are right that you should submit SAT2 scores to Stanford even it is just recommended. They do prefer to have Math2 score. Nevertheless, you should spend more time on your application essays. Unless you are only applying to very few schools, don’t underestimate the amount of time needed to improve your essays. It would be a much better way to spend your time than taking the 4th or more SAT2 subject tests. If you really want to take more subject tests to show your proficiency in language, why not take them in August. After all, there are plenty of tri-lingual applicants from immigrant families taking a different FL in high school.