Mythbusting SAT Subject Tests

As if general standardized testing isn’t enough, there are even more tests that you can (and depending on the situation maybe should) take. These tests are known as the SAT Subject Tests. There are many myths out there about the Subject Tests, a few which are true, and many that are false. Let’s take some time to talk about these myths and straighten out the rumors about SAT Subject Tests.

Myth #1: You have to take them.

You absolutely do NOT have to take the SAT Subject Test(s) unless you plan on applying to selective schools. In fact, Harvard only recommends two tests: “While we recommend that you submit two SAT Subject Tests, you may apply without them if the cost of the tests represents a financial hardship or if you prefer to have your application considered without them.” Georgetown, on the other hand, strongly recommends three. Neither of these strongly competitive colleges states that these tests are required on their websites, and these are two very selective schools.

Myth #2: You have to take at least 2.

Since you don’t even have to take the Subject Tests, you definitely don’t have to take at least 2. Other than taking Subject Tests because they are recommended, you would really only consider it if you need an additional data point(s). For example, let’s say you are considering majoring in Chemistry and you took AP Chemistry. In your first semester, you got a B, but in the second semester, you got an A. You might want to consider taking the chemistry subject test so that if you score well, that data point backs up the A. If you don’t score well, then no worries, you don’t have to submit your scores.

Myth #3: Taking it is better than not taking it.

As mentioned in the above paragraph, the Subject Test can be used as an additional data point, so if you score well, it can only help you. Conversely, if you score poorly and send the scores, it does not help your admission. A good score really depends on what test you are taking, and you’re intended major. Typically, a “good” reportable score, is at minimum a 700 as this is certainly considered a competitive score in The Bay area.

The junior year doesn’t need to be as complicated as everyone seems to make it. It’s certainly one of the highest stake years of your young adult life, but don’t clutter it with unnecessary tests, activities, and/or courses. If you are curious if you should take a Subject Test, reach out to ReadyEdgeGo at hello@readyedgego.com

Sarah Gooch

Essay Editor

Q:How many total years of experience do you have in your current role, including but not limited to ReadyEdgeGo?

A: I have five years' experience in coaching student writing, but this is my first year with ReadyEdgeGo.

Q: What about working with students do you most enjoy?

A: I love helping students find depth and meaning in their own stories—but I also just love it when they make me laugh!

Q: What do you like to do in your free time?

A: In theory, I enjoy painting and writing poetry, but these days I actually spend most of my free time socializing or watching movies with my husband.

Q: What is your one piece of advice for high schoolers?

A: Don't just focus on achieving top grades and credentials because they look good on applications, or your education will be meaningless. The numbers and awards have their place, but stay connected to your sense of curiosity, discovery, excitement, and wonder so that the content you're learning is constantly transforming you—it's something you care about, something you remember after the final exam. Work on the aspects of yourself no one can measure, like integrity, wisdom, kindness, and compassion, so that you're not only developing your academic and career potential but also investing in the type of adult you're going to be, the person you'll have to live with after you clock out every day for the rest of your life. Doing the hard inner work of building your character and learning deeply instead of just earning grades will set you up for a satisfying, well-rounded life. Strange as it sounds, it will also put you ahead in your academic and career goals, because colleges and hiring managers aren't looking for an empty set of data on a spreadsheet; they want a fully fleshed-out person marked by passion, creativity, and a story no one else has lived. So go on studying hard for tests, but also spend some time asking yourself what matters in life and who your role models are. Read up on topics that amaze you, and build something incredible just for fun. Cultivate that spark of joy you feel when you're immersed in a subject that fascinates you. If you can hit that balancing act of doing your homework and meeting deadlines but also investing in the kind of person you want to be, then trust that all the rest will follow: schools will recognize you as a dynamic, all-star person, and you will also build a life of happiness, close relationships, and peace.

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