How important are SAT subject tests to top colleges? What is a "good" score?

Question

I recently took an SAT World History subject test and am being encouraged to take more on other subjects llike chemistry and math next year. I know many top colleges want SAT subject test scores but how important are they in the acceptance process, especially at the top schools?

Answer 1

Every school uses different criteria in their selection process.  Some weight SAT more, some give GPA more weight.  Some colleges emphasize the essay, others give preference to extracurricular activities, such as volunteer work or community service.

So you should (1) if possible, determine what your field of interest / major would be, (2) identify 2 or 3 schools that are strong in your field of interest, and which look like places you would want to live for 4 years or so, (3) look at the entrance requirements for each of these schools, and (4) bust your butt to do what is necessary to meet the requirements of the schools most attractive to you.  Bottom line: start early to give yourself time to do what you need to do.

My son is entering college in the fall, and he found that the scholarship program at this school is entirely based on the SAT scores.  At his school, if your SATs are high enough, you can get a 4-year scholarship that pays 100% of tuition.  Other schools will differ in what is offered, and in what is necessary to qualify.

Good luck!

Answer 2

SAT subject tests are generally an important factor to the elite schools (i.e. Yale, Harvard, Duke, Princeton, Stanford, etc.), but it is important to remember that they are not the only criterion that college admissions officers take into consideration when deciding which students to accept.  These schools usually accept the people who have an aptitude for the field they plan on going into.  For instance, if you got anywhere from a 700-800 on your SAT II biology test, then that will work in your favor if you plan on pursuing science at an Ivy League or other prestigious school.  

Luckily, there are many top colleges that recognize that standardized test scores don't necessarily measure your ability to thrive in an academic atmosphere (i.e. Bowdoin, Smith, Pomona, Bates, Hampshire, Hamilton).  These collges don't require the submission of SAT scores.  They look more so at grade point average.