What Are SAT Subject Tests?

Hi Lee,

Thank you for your newsletter and all the information I’ve learned from reading it.  In the current issue you have a reminder on your calendar to freshmen asking if they need to take SAT Subject tests.  What are SAT subject tests and where can I find out if my 9th grader should be taking them?

Thank you,

Leslie

Hi Leslie!

The SAT Subject tests are also called “SAT 2″ tests.  They measure a high school amount of learning in one subject area at a time, like French, economics, or chemistry.  They are similar to an AP exam, but an AP measures a college amount of learning, so they are much more difficult.

Usually subject tests should be given after you complete each subject.  Not everyone needs them – it depends on the college you want to go to.  Some selective colleges like to see 3 to 5 subject tests, but other colleges don’t need any.  So the answer to “Should we take them?” probably has more to do with the colleges you think your child will apply to in the future.

Many classes taken as a freshman do not require a SAT Subject test.  It’s pretty easy to get subject tests as a sophomore, junior, or senior if you need them, and many freshman don’t take classes that would require taking a subject test.  If you are going to be taking another class in the same topic, for example, then you wouldn’t need a subject test.  In other words, you wouldn’t give a subject test after French 1, if you are planning to take French 2 next year, right?  So freshman usually do NOT need to take a SAT subject test.

For more information on SAT Subject tests, you might want to get the audio course, “High School Testing.” That audio course is free with the purchase of my e-book, “Total Transcript Solution About Homeschool Transcripts.”

I hope that helps!

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