@hcmom65 Sorry for the delay. I heard it directly from an admissions officer. He said if something is not required, don’t send it unless it strengthens your application because it will be considered. He then stated that they expect to see subjects scores at that percentile or higher. Maybe it was a flippant remark, maybe it was his personal opinion. He was speaking at an admissions event. Feel free to disagree and disregard.
@twicearound thanks for your information. It just doesn’t make sense on the percentiles for the subject tests. As I mentioned above, a 800 on the Math 2 is only at a 81% so that would mean that Vanderbilt does not want to see the Math 2 subject test of a perfect 800. Of course they would, and it is not at 90% and above. I will have my daughter ask her counselor who is very close with the Vandy admissions rep. Thank you!!
@hcmom65 You realize even though it is only at 81% percentile that it is still the max score. No one is going to penalize you for getting a perfect score on a math test nor are they going to let you in because of a subject test score. There is nothing to stress about. Take 2-3 subject tests and score as high as you can and send them.
I wouldn’t overthink. Just do what you think is best. I’m not seeking to convince you of anything, just sharing what we were told FWIW. I imagine different admissions reps may also have somewhat different opinions on what they consider to be extraordinary. I think the point stands regardless: When submitting information that is not required be sure it is extraordinary because it will be considered and the point of extra is to support or strengthen an app. So maybe the real question is what scores do they (not us) consider to be excellent/extraordinary. My D submitted her Math 2 800 because it was the highest score possible.
Send in the SAT Subject Tests. They are most certainly going to be viewed as outstanding despite the fact that some of them are tests taken by a pool of strong students. Also they demonstrate consistency in testing skills. Good luck. Focus on the other aspects of her application now. I personally recommend a flow of information that is positive and open. The adcoms know how to put these test scores in perspective. It is time to move on from test scores and shake them off now. Make a chart of things like essay questions, merit application deadlines and alum interview deadlines (our sons missed deadlines on their state flagship for something as simple as on campus interviews which are usually done by trained seniors). Get your family to get super realistic about what you can afford financially. Do not neglect your honors flagship options. Vandy is a reach for people with top scores due to numbers of applicants.
Definitely submit. I’m sure Vanderbilt and the other top schools will like it if you did so (and some schools, of course, expect them). It certainly will not hurt you. Do anything possible to at least impress the adcoms with your academic credentials to stay in the game. While nowhere near every deserving person will be admitted to whatever top school is desired, you may as well give yourself the best chance possible.