We are really trying not to stress over SAT2s. I’ve heard/read a number of times that they are not deal breakers. Our S19 is applying to only a few schools that require them and many more that “consider” them. I think some of the stress around SAT2s is also around how high the scores need to be and if the student needs to take them more than once.
One anecdote that may or may not help - I called the Dartmouth office a few weeks ago to ask if the essays will remain the same for next year and talked to a current student working in the admissions office. While I had her on the phone, I figured I would ask about SAT2 scores and if she felt like there were certain cut off for “good” scores. She told me that her SAT2 scores were the weakest part of her app, that she took each of her two SAT2 tests twice and was ok with her scores but they weren’t great. No more detail on the actual scores. She said, though, not too worry too much about them. You have to send them, yes, but they are a small part of the whole app. She said her grades and SAT were good and those SAT2’s not as good and that admissions is truly holistic. She was told by her AO that her essay blew them away so she thinks that’s what helped her stand out.
To anyone out there who knows about SAT2s at all, they should send them if they are required. Seriously, I think there are many kids out there for a variety of reasons who don’t even know about them. Those are the kids who are getting a pass. If you are on CC asking if you need to take them, you are savvy enough to be in the pile of kids who have to take them. If it’s a pain to get to one, just make sure you’ve studied so you don’t have to take them twice. If you need a fee waiver, get one.