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About the SAT Subject tests

What are the SAT Subject Tests and how are they structured?
The SAT Subject Tests are one-hour exams on a variety of high school subjects. The tests are entirely multiple choice. The SAT IIs are administered six times a year, and not all subject tests are administered on every test date.

What Tests are Available to Take?
- English Literature
- Math : Math IC, Math IIC
- History : American History/Social Studies, World History
- Sciences : Biology, Chemistry, Physics
- Foreign Languages : Chinese, French, German, Modern Hebrew,
- Italian, Japanese, Korean, Latin, Spanish
- English Language Proficiency

Where Are the SAT Subject tests Required?
Most selective colleges and the entire University of California system require students to take the SAT and three SAT Subject tests. Many colleges require at least one SAT Subject Test, and some require three: Writing, Math and one more. While some colleges use the Subject Tests for admission, other schools use the exam results for course placement. Even if SAT subject tests are not required for admission, a strong SAT Subject tests score may help to offset other areas of weakness on your application.

How are the SAT Subject tests scored?
You will receive one score for each Subject Test that you take. Each test is scored individually on a scale of 200-800. The US national average score varies from test to test. For this reason, you shouldn't compare scores across the different Subject Tests. For more detailed US average score information, visit the College Boards website.

Can I Cancel My Scores?
Yes. If you finish the test and think you may want to cancel your scores, you should ask the test supervisor for a "Request to Cancel Test Scores" form. You may submit the completed form immediately at the testing center, or you can think about it for a day or two before mailing it to ETS. However, ETS must receive your request form no later than the Wednesday after the test.

When Should I Take the SAT Subject tests?
Most students take Subject Tests toward the end of their junior year or at the beginning of their senior year. However, if you expect to study one of these subjects in high school (Physics, for example), plan to take the related SAT Subject tests immediately after finishing that course. You can take up to three Subject Tests on a single test date. However, you cannot take the SAT and SAT Subject tests on the same day.

How Do I Register for the SAT Subject tests?
For the most accurate information on exam dates and corresponding subject tests, talk to your high school guidance counselor or visit www.ets.org or www.collegeboard.com. Registration deadlines fall approximately five weeks before each test date.

How can I prepare for the SAT Subject tests?
Contact us at The Princeton Review, or check out our classroom courses and private tutoring options.

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