What SAT subject tests should I take?Answered
I know that SAT subject tests are not as important anymore since many schools are no longer recommend or require them. However, I still want to take them if possible since my top schools will still be considering them.
I am a junior planning to apply to colleges as a biochemistry or chemistry major (still torn between the two options) under a pre-med track. I know for sure that I will be taking the chemistry subject test because frankly, I LOVE chemistry and know I can do well on it. However, I want to take two subject tests and I don't know whether it'd be better to take the Math II or Biology (molecular) subject test. I have heard from friends that I should take Math II because it's better for STEM, but I never finished learning all the material for my Precalculus class due to COVID-19 and am unsure if I'd be able to do well on it. On the other hand, I feel a lot more comfortable with taking Biology (molecular), but will taking two science tests be somewhat damaging? Or if I solely apply as a chemistry major, will a biology subject test look weird? Which should I take?
Any resources to help study for these subject tests would also be appreciated. I do not want to spend a lot of money on prep since the tests are relatively unimportant this year.
Thank you
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2 answers
If you haven't finished Precalc, you might encounter some subject matter on Math II that you're unfamiliar with. With that in mind, you should take some practice tests to assess where you stand right now and what kind of score might be reasonable for you to get on the Math II. If you're applying to schools that would still consider it (which usually means top schools), then you'd want to be in the high 700s, if not the 800 range (Math II has an extremely generous curve, and something like 30% of the people who take it receive 800s), for it to be worthwhile. If you're in the low 700s or especially below a 700, it's probably going to hurt you more than it would help. In that case, as long as your Bio M score is in the 700s on any practice tests you take, I would take that instead.
I would take math II. I took it last year after algebra 2/trig and still got an 800. The material isn't too hard to learn and its relatively easy to get an 800. I used the Barrons book and the official college board tests. Also most STEM departments recommend taking a math and a science subject test. Good Luck!
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I agree, taking math II is a good call....a lot of colleges used to require the math II so I am guessing there was a reason for this - but if you feel more comfortable taking the Bio M then go for it as your SAT math score can most likely speak to your math comprehension.