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FAQ's About the SAT II's
by Clint PageBrought to you by the American School Counselor Association
What are the SAT II's?
Formerly known as the Achievement Tests, the SAT II's are a series of one hour tests in specific subject areas.
How many subject tests can you take and when can you take them?
You can choose to take one, two, or three tests on a given testing date. They're all given on the same testing dates as the SAT I's -- with the exception of the March/April test date. The SAT II's aren't given in March/April. Remember that you can't take the SAT I's and II's on the same date.
What subject tests are offered?
The five general areas are:
Why should I take the SAT II's?
Many of the more selective colleges require three SAT II's for admission. Also, certain scholarships require them. Be sure to check the requirements of the colleges you're interested in to see if they require the SAT II's. You may also find this information in the college's catalog and on its website.
When should I take the SAT II's?
It's highly recommended that you take the SAT II's while the subject matter is fresh in your mind. For this reason, a big test date for the SAT II's is June. For example, if you are completing Chemistry this year, it's recommended that you take the SAT II Subject Test in Chemistry this year. If you wait until next year to take it, you'll have forgotten some of the material that will be on the test.
Why don't colleges just look at our grades in a subject rather than require a subject test?
Unfortunately, Chemistry at Bayside High School is not always the same as Chemistry at Pleasant Hills High School. As a matter of fact, sometimes Chemistry taught by Mr. Smith at Bayside High School is not the same as Chemistry taught by Mrs. Jones at Bayside High School! Therefore, the SAT II's "level the playing field." They put everyone on the same scale.
How do I register?
Use the same Registration Form as the SAT I's.
Is there anything else should I know about the SAT II's?
Yes! There's an unique feature called Score Choice that allows you the option of waiting to see your scores before deciding to send them to colleges. In other words, you can wait to see how you did first and if you like your scores, you can send them off.
If you don't like the scores, you don't send them! The only catch is that you must make this determination prior to the day of the test. You must sign up for Score Choice when you register. You cannot sign up for Score Choice after you have taken the test!
More on: Preparing for College
