What do sat subject tests do

However, these are not like the AP exams , in which a course is taught specifically to take a test. In fact, the College Board, which administers both tests, explains the differences:.

SAT Subject Tests are high school-level tests, reflecting high school curricula. So, anyone can take these classes; however, keep in mind that most colleges do not require or even recommend taking SAT Subject Tests. While you can take these tests whenever they are offered, it is best to take them after you have learned the material in a high school class. Typically, the best time to take these tests is in May or June of the school year in which you took the class.

Realistically, if you studied biology in freshman year and then wait until your junior year of high school to take the Biology Subject Test, it might be difficult to do well since these tests are very content specific.

If you took a course that coincides with a subject test, but you weren't able to schedule that test right after the school year, it's best to take time over the summer to review the material again as a refresher. Each Subject Test is scored out of points and scaled differently. As a result, look at the approximate number of questions that you need to answer correctly in order to earn the score that you desire on a particular test.

A student might need to answer every question correctly in order to achieve an Meanwhile, the Math Level 2 might test more difficult concepts, but the scaling tends to be easier.

In fact, a student might be able to skip up to six or seven questions and still score a perfect This is nothing to worry about. You do not have to get every question correct to receive the highest score for the test. Many students do well despite not having studied every topic covered. These scales, along with the answer keys, can be found at the back of practice tests. This will allow you to maximize your exposure to key concepts in the classroom and face the test while everything is still fresh in your mind.

If you are unhappy with your scores, there is always the option to retake an exam at the beginning of 12th grade. The flaw in this logic is that the high school curriculum is truly, as The Common Core Standards purport, going to be covered and taught identically in every high school classroom across the country.

Unfortunately, it is very possible to ace an honors biology class, sign up for the Molecular Biology SAT Subject Test and feel like you were just thrown a nasty curveball.

Remember, unlike in an AP course, your teacher, even in a very rigorous course, is aligning his or her curriculum and SAT Subject Test. The average Subject Test participant scored over a on the reading, math, and writing section of their regular SAT, over points higher per section than the average student.

He has previously served as a high school counselor, consultant and author for Kaplan Test Prep, and advisor to U. Congress, reporting on issues related to college admissions and financial aid.

What Subject Tests should homeschooled students take? Who does need to take them? At Harvard, for example, or better on a language test will waive its language requirement and allow you to choose among more advanced language courses. Check out the full list of test optional and flexible schools here. Subject Tests can really strengthen your application, as they allow you to feature a particular strength, knowledge of a subject, and academic interest. If you speak another language, the language tests are a great way to showcase your skills.

As colleges are increasingly seeking to establish a multicultural class of students with global competencies, they will consider your ability to communicate in another language to be a strong and desirable asset to your candidacy. Since policies are continually changing, especially as schools become more and more flexible, make sure to double check your colleges' standardized testing requirements by researching their admissions website or speaking to an admissions officer directly.

Finally, you may elect to take the Subject Tests even if they're not required, if you want to demonstrate a particular strength to the admissions committee. If you're excited to study Engineering, for example, you may be eager to showcase your math and science skills. The list of colleges mentioned above indicates if a college does not require, but will consider SAT Subject Tests are part of your application.

The science, math, literature, and math Subject Tests are offered on all these dates. The language tests are offered on some, but not all, of the dates. Check out this chart of the exact dates of all the Subject Tests.

It will also help you figure out your best schedule for taking the Subject Tests in and around the general SAT or ACT and all your other activities and obligations. You can take up to 3 Subject Tests in one day with some conditions , so you can take them all together or choose to spread them out over different dates.

The best time to take a Subject Test is often near the end of the school year in which you've been studying that subject and may also be studying for a final or AP exam. You don't have to wait until junior year , but instead should take the Subject Tests whenever you are ready and the content is fresh in your mind.

Hopefully this overview of the what, how, why, and when of SAT Subject Tests makes it easier for you to add this extra component into the college application mix. By following the links provided, you'll become an expert in everything you need to know to conquer the SAT Subject Tests. Perhaps you've studied lots of the subjects covered by the Subject Tests and aren't sure how to choose.

In order to prepare, first you need to know when you have time to study. This article helps you figure out your study plan and when you should start preparing. We've written a guide for each test about the top 5 strategies you must be using to have a shot at improving your score. Download it for free now:.

She has years of teaching and college counseling experience and is passionate about helping students achieve their goals and improve their well-being. Our new student and parent forum, at ExpertHub. See how other students and parents are navigating high school, college, and the college admissions process.