SAT Subject Tests

The SAT Subject Tests are designed to measure what you know about specific subjects. Sure, critical reading and thinking skills play a part, but the main purpose of the Subject Tests is to determine exactly what you know about math, history, chemistry, and so on.

How Are They Used?

Schools that require these tests feel that they’re an important indicator of your ability to succeed in college. Specifically, they use your scores to help make admissions and placement decisions. Like the SAT, the SAT Subject Tests provide schools with a standard measure of academic performance, which they use to compare you to applicants from different high schools and different educational backgrounds. This information helps them to decide whether you have the academic ability to handle their curriculum.

Your scores may also be used to decide what course of study is appropriate for you once you’ve been admitted. A low score on the Math Level 1 test, for example, may require the student to take a remedial Math course. Conversely, a high score on the Chemistry test may exempt the student from an introductory science course. Some colleges even give credit for high scores on SAT Subject Tests!

Which Tests Should You Take?

The simple answer: Take the ones that you’ll do well on. High scores, after all, can only help your chances for admission. Some colleges demand that you take particular tests, usually one of the math tests. Other schools give you a choice in the matter, especially if they want you to take 3 subject tests. Before you register for any test, check with the colleges in which you’re interested to determine which they require.

At Damian SAT/ACT Prep we offer a wide array of options for SAT Subject Tests: Math, Physics, Biology, Chemistry, French.