Snarkiness Is Not Welcome

TheHelper
Tue, 23 Nov 2010 10:36:32 +0000

Hey wannabe Yalies. I’m just asking for genuine input/advice as to how I should go about testing in the future. I’m currently a junior, an Asian in an overrepresented state… so while test scores aren’t the most crucial element of the application, I think it’s widely accepted that for people of my demographics, we need to tighten as many loose ends as possible when applying to schools like Yale.

As far as SAT IIs go, I’ve only gotten low 700s on Math II and a mid-600 on Literature. I’m under the impression that you should aim for mid-700+, if you’re applying to Yale, for two subject tests. Does anyone have any recommendations for what tests I should do? Should I bother with Math I? Should I try to self-study Biology? I’m doing AP Chemistry, but it’s not my strong suit, so while I might get a 5 on the AP I don’t think I’d do too well on the SAT II since it’s harder. I’m also not great in any AP History, nor am I very strong in any of them. I’m also not great in Physics and I’m only in honors level, not AP. But, I’m in AP Spanish so I could take a whack at the SAT II Spanish without Listening in the spring, since grammar and reading are my strongest skill sets when it comes to Spanish Language. Are there any other tests I should try to self-study for? I’m really at a loss when it comes to subject tests.

As far as SAT Is, go I just got a 730 Math, 730 Reading, 770 Writing, and 12 Essay. I know a 2230 is not a bad score but, as mentioned before, I think I need to maximize what I’m bringing in this application. Is it possible for me to make less mistakes on reading/math if I retake it in March? I think it will be. But I would just like some confirmation that my standpoint in terms of just SAT I testing is solid, for now.

Any feedback provided would be really helpful. Again, I’m not saying my scores are low or amazing, nor am I trying to contrive sympathy. I just want some helpful advice from some helpful, intelligent people… whom I know are everywhere on CC! :)