SAT Subject Tests

Subject Tests are hour-long, content-based tests that allow you to showcase achievement in specific subject areas where you excel. SAT Subject Tests allow you to differentiate yourself in the college admission process or send a strong message regarding your readiness to study specific majors or programs in college. In conjunction with your other admission credentials (your high school record, SAT scores, teacher recommendations, etc.), they provide a more complete picture of your academic background and interests.

There are 20 SAT Subject Tests in five general subject areas: English, history, languages, mathematics and science. SAT Subject Tests are generally offered six times in any given school year. However, not all 20 tests are offered during every administration. Language with Listening tests are only offered during the November administration. SAT Subject Tests are generally offered on the same dates that the SAT is offered. As administration of both the SAT and SAT Subject Tests are concurrent, students may not take both the SAT and SAT Subject Tests during the same administration.

Some colleges require or recommend that you take SAT Subject Tests. In addition, you can enhance your application, demonstrate knowledge you have gained outside the classroom, and potentially place out of introductory courses by taking these tests.

What is the different between SAT Subject Tests and Advanced Placement classes and exams?

SAT Subject Tests are high school-level tests, reflecting high school curricula. These tests indicate a student’s readiness to take college-level courses in specific subject areas. AP® Exams, however, assess a student’s college-level knowledge, skills and abilities, learned in the corresponding AP courses. As a result, the topics covered on SAT Subject Tests may differ from those covered on AP Exams, with AP Exams typically covering more advanced topics with a greater depth that is more reflective of a college-level course.

While AP exams are also an excellent way to demonstrate understanding in specific subject areas, not all students have an opportunity to take AP courses across a broad range of subjects and in time to meet college admission deadlines. For students who lack access to AP and still wish to demonstrate subject knowledge, the Subject Tests offer this opportunity.

In general, students who have taken more rigorous courses (e.g., honors, AP, IB, dual enrollment) are better prepared for the SAT Subject Tests. However, advanced or college-level course work is not required to do well on the SAT Subject Tests.