SAT Subject Tests. We recommend, but do not require, the submission of two SAT Subject Tests, which often assist us in the evaluation process. We have no preference for the specific SAT Subject Tests applicants might choose to take. However, if you apply for the B.S.E. degree, we recommend that you take mathematics (Level I or II) and either physics of chemistry. If you decide to submit Subject Tests, early action applicants should take them by the November test date, and regular decision applicants should take them by the January test date.
Note that SAT Subject Test scores are components of the Academic Index, so if a recruited athlete is not already planning to take them , coach would probably insist
I guess it changed from last year to this. I wonder if that has anything to do with the new SAT format coming out? I looked up Dartmouth, which was the other school I remember requiring SAT2s, and apparently they still do so. Weirdly, last year Princeton needed the SAT2 results for the academic pre read, while Dartmouth did not, because at Dartmouth the SAT2s were used for placement, not admission.
As of last year, the schools that did not require the SAT2s for admission (Dartmouth and Penn of the schools seriously recruiting my son if I recollect correctly) used the SAT1 scores instead of the SAT2 scores in the academic index formula, effectively counting those scores twice, just like on Varska’s Tier One calculator.
Here is the thread from a couple months ago. Apparently, Princeton’s requirements changed sometime between May and now. Don’t know about the other three schools discussed.
I’ve been wondering too why several Ivies are moving to SAT IIs being optional. I haven’t come across a good explanation but perhaps it does have to do with the new SAT format, or maybe it’s just that the schools want the flexibility to accept exceptional applicants who for one reason or another don’t have SAT II scores.
Regardless, to me when highly selective schools say “recommended”, for the most part I take that to mean “required” for those who want a realistic shot at getting in, perhaps with some exceptions for highly recruited athletes or others who fit institutional priorities.
I think you are right @bluewater2015 . As I think I said on the other thread, as a practical matter the correct answer to a coach who is recruiting you asking if you are planning on taking the SAT2’s is yes sir, can’t wait!
Have you considered Stanford? Big time athletics AND top notch academics, not to mention great weather and very happy students.
Dartmouth is a great school and where one of my kids attended, but my athlete decided against Dartmouth in part because of the D-plan and especially the sophomore summer requirement. However, she was a distance runner who needed to compete all three seasons, which is likely not the case for your son.
Thanks so much.
Could you flesh out those points some. My son will run 4 indoor and outdoor seasons basically Decrmber through May/June each year, how is the sophomore summer a negative and the D-Plan? Thanks. Did you child who attended Dartmouth enjoy the experience? Also we live in a warm climate the “four seasons” weather is plus my son likes the cold, Califorian weather is like ours, so it’s a “negative” if you take my meaning.