About The SAT Subject Tests
The SAT Subject Tests are one of the components of the SAT Testing Program offered by the College Board. The SAT Testing Program also includes the SAT Reasoning Test.
Purpose of the SAT Subject Tests
The SAT Subject Tests (formerly SAT II: Subject Tests) are intended to measure a students knowledge and skills in a particular subject area. The SAT Subject Tests are used in conjunction with the Reasoning Test, as part of the college admissions process. Other factors taken into consideration as part of the admission process may include other tests, a student's grades, recommendations, and other information, all intended to give a complete picture of an applicant to a college or university.
Offered SAT Subject Tests
Subjects tests are offered in five subject areas. These include:
- English
- Literature
- History and Social Studies
- U.S. History (formerly American History and Social Studies)
- World History
- Languages
- Chinese with Listening
- French
- French with Listening
- German
- German with Listening
- Spanish
- Spanish with Listening
- Modern Hebrew
- Italian
- Latin
- Japanese with Listening
- Korean with Listening
- Mathematics
- Mathematics Level 1 (formerly Mathematics IC)
- Mathematics Level 2 (formerly Mathematics IIC)
- Science
- Biology E/M
- Chemistry
- Physics
Structure of the SAT Subject Tests
SAT Subject Tests are one-hour, multiple choice tests. Some of the tests have unique characteristics. These include:
- The SAT Subject Test in Biology E/M has a core of 60 general-knowledge questions, and then a set of 20 questions that emphasize either ecology of molecular biology.
- The SAT Subject Test in Math has some questions that require the use of a scientific or graphing calculator.
- The SAT Subject Tests in Languages with Listening have two sections, a listening section and a reading section. Students must bring an acceptable CD player.
Which Subject Tests Should a Student Take?
Students determine which subject tests to take by consulting the admissions requirements of the colleges and universities that they are considering. Some of the schools that do not require Subject Tests may still review them to obtain a more complete picture of an applicant.
When and Where the SAT Subject Tests are Offered
Students typically take the SAT Subject Tests in the spring of their junior year and the fall of their senior year. Individuals should take the tests as soon as possible after completing relevant high school course work.
SAT Subject Tests are offered seven times a year at U.S. test centers, and six times a year at international locations. The Tests are offered in test centers throughout the United States, as well as locations around the world. Individuals should consult the College Board web site for dates and locations.
