SAT Subject Tests

What test should I take first, the SAT or the Subject Tests?

Most students take the SAT in the spring of their junior year and again in the fall of their senior year of high school. Most students who take Subject Tests take them toward the end of their junior year or at the beginning of their senior year. Because Subject Tests are directly related to course work, it's helpful to take tests such as World History, Biology E/M, Chemistry, or Physics as soon as possible after completing the course in the subject, even as a freshman or sophomore, while the material is still fresh in your mind. You'll do better on other tests like languages after at least two years of study.

 

How are the Subject Tests administered?

When you seat for the Subject Tests, you will receive a large booklet with all of the Subject Tests in it along with an answer sheet. You have the option of taking the test in whatever order you prefer. You can take up to three Subject Tests at each seating.

Students receive a break of approximately 10 to 15 minutes between tests, and are not permitted to look at any review material or discuss questions during the break.

When are the Subject Tests offered?

Most Subject Tests are offered on the same dates as the regular SAT, except for the March administration. The Language tests with listening are generally available only once a year, in November. A calendar of test dates and registration deadlines can be found on The College Board's official website

How are the Subject Tests scored?

Each of the Subject Tests is scored on a 200 - 800 scale, just like the SAT math, critical reading, and writing sections.

Which Study Guide should I get?

The College Board have only three "official" study guides. One that covers all the subjects, one for mathematics and one for US & World History. For the other subjects you can consider other publishers like the Princeton Review.

	The Official Study Guide for All SAT Subject Tests This is the only source of official questions and answers for all 20 SAT Subject Test exams developed by the test maker. It includes practice tests for all 20 exams, test-taking tips and strategies, and two audio CDs to practice for the foreign language
	The Official SAT Subject Tests in Mathematics Levels 1 & 2 Study Guide This Study Guide is the only source of official questions and answer explanations for these exams. In addition to two full-length practice tests for each exam level, this book also contains complete solutions, answer explanations, and test-taking strategies.
	The Official SAT Subject Tests in U.S. & World History Study Guide This Study Guide is the only source of official questions and answer explanations for these exams, In addition to two full-length practice tests in each subject, the guide also contains complete solutions, answer explanations and test-taking strategies.
	Cracking the SAT Chemistry Subject Test, 15th Edition This guide teaches you the techniques and information you’ll need to maximize your score. It will review key concepts that will appear on the test and use proven techniques to solve complicated questions
	Cracking the SAT Biology E/M Subject Test, 15th Edition This guide teaches you the techniques and information you’ll need to maximize your score. It will review key concepts that will appear on the test and use proven techniques to solve complicated questions
	Cracking the SAT Physics Subject Test, 15th Edition This guide teaches you the techniques and information you’ll need to maximize your score. It will review key concepts that will appear on the test and use proven techniques to solve complicated questions