Math II Curve: Helpful or not?

Archive SAT Subject Test Preparation
1

<p>I’m considering taking Math II, even though I am much more comfortable with the humanities, because I know it has a generous curve and several friends who have scored 800 recommend it. However, I am sure that admissions officers know that this curve is generous, so will they look down on scores in the 760-790 range? (I will be applying to HYPS caliber schools). </p>

<p>I suppose it boils down to this: Are they just looking for a high number, and don’t care where it comes from, or do they look less favorably on high Math II scores, because they know they are comparatively easier? I guess the latter would be more of a percentile based approach. Any help is appreciated, thank you.</p>

2

<p>Please, if someone could give me guidance on this, I would greatly appreciate it. I suspect many other students have the same question.</p>

3

<p>Math2 does have a more generous curve (~15% 800) but it requires more math skills too. In a way, it may just offset the difference between the difficulties of the 2 Math tests. Math1 has easier question, so it is harder to get higher score. Math2 is more difficult but one may score higher easier. If you are good in Math, definitely go for Math2. If not, you may consider Math1 or Math2 (if you are at the level of pre-calc).</p>