College Counseling Corner: What are Subject Tests?

By Sarah Soule

Area high school students are typically quite familiar with the PSAT, PLAN, ACT, and SAT. However they are not often as familiar with the College Board’s Subject Tests. Offered in October, November, December, January, March, May, and June, the tests focus on five academic subject areas: math, world languages, science, history, and literature. Like the SAT, they are also scored on the 200-800 scale.

The Subject Tests are an excellent mechanism for students to showcase their academic talents to the colleges and universities to which they will be applying. Students can self-select which tests they wish to take, although some institutions will require that an applicant take specific Subject Tests. Please be sure to check with the college’s website for detailed information as to testing requirements.

The tests are 60 minutes in length and the questions focus on content learned in related high school classes. The Subject Tests are different from the Advanced Placement (AP) tests in that they focus on high school coursework. AP tests are geared to coordinate with a specific AP class. Subject Tests allow a student to sit for exams in selected subjects of their own choosing.

The optimal time to take the Subject Tests is when the student is currently enrolled in the course for which they are taking the exam. For example, students currently enrolled in chemistry would be wise to take the test in that subject in either May or June of 2015. There are two math tests, one that is directed towards algebra and geometry. The second test focuses on more advanced topics such as pre-calculus and trigonometry. Additionally, there are tests in literature, world languages, world history, US history, and physics.

For a complete list of when each Subject Test is offered, students are advised to review the College Board’s website: www. collegeboard.com. Not every Subject Test is offered on each test date, so students are encouraged to work closely with their guidance counselor as they plan for standardized testing. Good luck!

Sarah Soule is the Director of College Counseling at the Vermont Commons School in South Burlington. A Charlotte resident, Soule has worked in the field of admissions and college counseling for 33 years. She advises students on the college admission process as an educational consultant.