Can College Students take SAT Subject Tests?

To know can college students take SAT subject tests….Read on this article…!

When it comes to drafting out your college application, aside from your essay and recommendations from teachers or mentors, the SAT subject test is another thing that can make your application a bit more attractive. Unlike the general SAT which tests not only your reasoning but also your readiness for college, the SAT subject test focuses on testing how much knowledge you have in specific subjects.

It gives you an edge as you can take subjects that mainly show your strengths. That is, subjects you’ve offered in high school and things you are interested in a high SAT subject test score can help move you a step closer to your dream college.

Can College Students take SAT Subject Tests?

Can College Students take SAT Subject Tests?

The College Board has canceled SAT subject tests and so college students can no longer take this test. The last set of the subject tests was taken in May and June of 2021 which was only for international students. After that batch, the test is no longer offered both for domestic and international students causing a bit of confusion in the college admission process.

SAT Subject Test Discontinuation

The College Board on the 19th of January, 2021 announced that they were discontinuing the subject tests. This decision was brought about as a result of the changes in college admission processes encountered during the COVID-19 pandemic and to reduce the stress on high school students.

The fact that the subject tests are no longer as popular as they used to be, with fewer students taking the test each year also played a part in the board’s decision to cancel the test. It will also allow students to pay more attention and focus on their AP exams which is a good show of students’ academic performance and is becoming more accessible.

Effect of the Discontinuation on Admission Cycle

The discontinuation of the subject test will affect the 2021-2022 admission cycle because most colleges went the test-optional or test blind route for 2020-2021. What this implies is that the subject test scores will not be required and may not be considered when submitted for the new admission cycle. So a high score will make no difference to your college application.

However, depending on your program and college, there might be an exception where your scores will count. So it pays to check the admission policies on the program you are interested in.

Effects of the discontinuation on Students

Students who were hopeful that their score on the subject test will help boost their competitive advantage for their college application will find this discontinuation a big problem. Without the subject test, there is no last-minute way to make up for a poor GPA before one applies for college.

Worse still for those that are homeschooled or those that are not lucky enough to attend a high school that offers AP classes, this could affect their chances negatively. The subject test provides a means of comparison for students with different backgrounds and without it, it makes application a tad more difficult for students that fall in the previously mentioned category.

How can Students Compensate for the absence of a Subject Test?

The fact that there are no SAT subject tests means that the impact of SAT scores and AP exams has increased when it comes to college application. AP exams are a bit like the subject tests and are the alternative to it. AP exams test knowledge in subject areas on a national standardized scale, same as subject tests, but only with free responses and other styles, not multiple choice.

Still, you will not find a corresponding AP test for every subject test; some might be at a higher level and others may not have any at all.  Aside from the AP exams, the Sat scores are another to focus on to help your chances. Colleges also consider SAT scores for awarding scholarships as well.

Why should one take an AP exam?

With the discontinuation of the subject test, the AP exam has a lot of advantages for college aspirants.

·         It increases your college credits as studying for it widens your exposure to college-level courses and shows your capability in handling workload without an adverse effect on your college life. It gives you an upper hand compared to other students with the credits translating to early graduation or advanced courses as a freshman in college depending on the college’s policy.

·         The exams are a tad harder with a comprehensive curriculum. Therefore, it stands to reason that the AP classes will increase your specialization in particular subjects allowing you to pass the exam.

·         Studying for the exam helps to improve your time management skills as well as your study skill which will come in handy as a college student.

Should I take the SAT?

There are still a lot of colleges that require SAT scores even with the canceled Subject test and colleges going the ‘test-optional’ way. You should be on the safe side by taking the test, whether required or not.

If you decide not to take it, bear in mind that it will be your high school grades competing with those that have SAT scores, meaning you’ll need to have a brilliant academic performance. You will also need this score if you are going for a scholarship.

Will Colleges accept scores from already taken subject tests?

The decision as to whether the scores will be accepted or not is left to your chosen college.  Information on application policies can be found on the colleges’ websites and should be consulted to get an answer. So in essence, the decision is sorely in the hand of the different colleges.

 Conclusion

For college aspirants, the best thing to do is to study, make good grades and take tests and exams based on legit information on the admission policy of your chosen college, as well as changes in the educational system. Preparation is key, so boost your college competitive advantage by preparing effectively for your SAT and AP exams and acing them.