SAT Subject Tests?

My opinion is not going to be a popular one.  However I would take them IF your baseball son is considering some of the most competitive academic schools such as the ones you mentioned.  You are competing for athletic sponsorship by the Coach and hopeful acceptance by an Admissions committee that rewards students for high achievement and rigor.    JMO.

The school my son verbaled to (waiting on admissions) required that he take the subject test and hit a certain score. This was months after taking the relevant classes. He ended up taking a crash course to prepare for it. I would take it and get it out of the way while it is still fresh in his mind.  

My 2012 is, and now my 2016 will be, going to high academic schools.  Neither took an SAT subject test.  While each took a few AP courses, neither ever submitted AP test results to any college either.

That said, if a student could score very high on AP and/or SAT subject tests, it's more (beneficial) information for the Admissions office to make their decision.  

Branson and Standball, could you please PM me with your son's schools? I know Fenway's son went to Cornell, which is one of the hold out, still requiring two subject tests.

I also wonder about AP vs SAT2. Shouldn't AP be more advanced than SAT2? E.g. if your son already scored 4 or 5 on AP Calculus, what's the point of taking SAT Math2, which is basic algebra?

Son took three or four SAT tests (Math 1, Math 2, Chem & and I think Literature). He found that the best time to take was in June when he was either in finals mode or last week of HS. He went the high academic route for college. Unlike AP (where you can get credit or courses waived), SAT subject tests are a way to separate yourself from other recruits if scores are good.

Other posters talk about "support" from coaches to admissions, which is true.  If you are thinking Ivy/Patriot/Colonial route, the better academic portfolio you have (coupled with D1 athletic talent), the better you are viewed.  SAT II scores used to be part of the Academic Index (AI) as well. So while many not require the SAT II's, a good performance on them (like an AP 4 or AP 5 score) could enhance a recruit's standing on "the board" of the school.

"Recommend" means you should have a good reason for not taking the SAT 2's.  If you have a good reason, then fine.  However, from a baseball perspective where the coach is trying to use his Tip for your son, not taking the test gives the coach yet another hurdle to cross with admissions.  I would have your son take the test.

They are very short tests as I recall and my kids told me they were easy to prepare for.  Solid AP courses or subject matter interest prepare you very well.  You should also note that not every SAT 2 is created equal.  EG - If your going to MIT you had better take the Math 2 and one of the science exams.

Branson Baseball posted:

My 2012 is, and now my 2016 will be, going to high academic schools.  Neither took an SAT subject test.  While each took a few AP courses, neither ever submitted AP test results to any college either.

That said, if a student could score very high on AP and/or SAT subject tests, it's more (beneficial) information for the Admissions office to make their decision.  

Ditto.

Sons took several dual enrollment classes with the local community college which they were given college credit. 

Baseball son's school has a language requirement.  4 years.  If any of the school have that type of requirement, be sure to satisfy it in high school. 

Thanks for the replies. Sounds like that any schools with either "Required" or "Recommended" should be treated like "Required".

I agree with Ripken that if taking the test, the best time will be in June -- APs are done in early May; classes are finished in early June; High school baseball also end in May; only thing is that travel ball, tournaments, and showcases are in full swing though.

Another reason to take subject tests: Students entering college can often clear a remediation requirement if they score high enough on a subject test. Remember that not all HS offer APs. 

Agree with Fenway, others.  My son is 2016 Ivy bound.  Coach said even though they are not required by admissions, admissions "STRONGLY!" (exactly how he typed it in text to my son when my son inquired about not having to take them) encourages coaches in all sports to have recruits take them.  It is another data point.  My sense is that is is a no lose situation.  The Subject Test score can only  help you and likely won't hurt you.  Take them end of semester after your son has taken that subject in school.  My son took his first spring of sophomore year and actually did really well, as he had taken the course material that year.  Also, one other thing the coach told us is that the more you take, the better, as they will only take your best couple of scores.  So, my son took  Math II in 10th grade.  Then, Oct.  of senior year (right before early decision time), he took Physics and Math I.  We thought it would look like he took the easy way out if he did Math II then Math I.  The coach said that was not the case and "just take it to see how he does, even if he doesn't prep".  Sure enough, he did better on Math I than the Physics exam (don't ask me why he chose Physics - ugh!).