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Mysteries of the SAT Subject Tests Explained

March 2009

The SAT Reasoning Test and the ACT are the prevailing standardized tests for students applying to college. However, Subject Tests may be required or strongly recommended for students who plan to apply to the more selective colleges. Being aware of what college admissions officers require or expect is very important.

The College Board develops and administers both the SAT Subject Tests and the SAT Reasoning Tests; the following is from its website.

"Subject Tests (formerly SAT II: Subject Tests) measure your knowledge and skills in particular subject areas, and your ability to apply that knowledge. The SAT Subject Tests offer you an additional opportunity to show colleges what you know and what you know you can do.
The SAT Subject Tests are the only national admissions tests that give you the opportunity to demonstrate mastery of content in specific subjects, such as English, history, mathematics, science, and various foreign languages.
Many colleges use the Subject Tests for admission, for course placement, and to advise students about course selection. Some colleges specify the Subject Tests that they require for admission or placement; others allow applicants to choose which tests to take."

Colleges change their testing requirements from year to year so it is wise to check on the website of each college to which you will be visiting and/or applying for their individual requirements. Some colleges will specify a certain number of Subject Tests; others will state that they recommend them, in some cases "strongly." Many will accept the ACT in place of Subject Tests because it is broken out by subject area.

It is a good idea to be sure you are prepared for specific Subject Tests by speaking with your teacher about the advisability of taking the test and by reviewing the material that will be covered on the various tests on the College Board website. You should have reached a certain level of proficiency in the subject before taking any of the tests. Some tests you can take after finishing the course in May or June and others, such as Math or Literature, you can take at any time during the year.

Students who feel comfortable with standardized testing and who are applying to the more selective colleges, might want to tackle more Subject Tests than are recommended by the colleges on their list, colleges will appreciate having an additional measure of their achievements and the demonstrated willingness to go above and beyond the requirements. Remember that with Score Choice you will be able to choose which tests to send, therefore a poor score will not hurt you. Students who are not applying to the more selective colleges, don't need to worry; you don't need to stress about yet one more test, so take what you feel comfortable with and no more!

We've included a link to the College Board's page on Subject tests in this newsletter - and please feel free to contact us with any questions.

Emilie Hinman
ehinman@dunbarconsultants.com

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