To: Uppers

From: College Counseling

Re: College Admission Testing, Spring Upper Year

Date: February 2006

You should have already met at least once with your college counselor and discussed your specific college admissions testing schedule. If you are one of a very few who has not yet had a first meeting with your college counselor, we ask you to come to the office soon.  This memo is designed to highlight the SAT Subject Tests and to suggest some options for you as you think about registering for upcoming tests.

WHAT ARE THE SAT SUBJECT TESTS?  In addition to the SAT Reasoning Test, most selective colleges require three Subject Test scores as a part of the application.  Most Subject Tests are one-hour multiple choice exams, offered in a variety of academic areas.  Language Listening (offered only in November) Tests have additional components.  Six test dates during the school year offer an array of Subject Tests, and you can take one, two or three on one date. Please note that you cannot take the SAT Reasoning and SAT Subject tests on the same test date. Nor are all tests given on all test dates.

WHICH SUBJECT TESTS SHOULD I TAKE?  Many colleges require submission of three SAT Subject Tests.  Some may require a math or science, a foreign language or two to three tests from different subject areas.  Some state universities require a math Subject Test; engineering programs often require both a math and a science Subject Test.  Check carefully the requirements of the schools and programs in which you are interested.  Discuss your plans with your teachers and your college counselor.

WHEN SHOULD I TAKE THE SAT SUBJECT TESTS?  You have two spring dates to consider for the Subject Tests -- May 6 and June 3.  You may prefer to spread out your Subject Tests by taking one or two in May, and one or two in June, rather than three on one date.  The most logical tests to consider taking on the May date are English Literature, Math IIC (if you will finish at least Math 360 Winter Term), and Math IC (if you will finish at least Math 320 Winter Term), and perhaps Biology E/M. (See guidelines below.)

In planning your Subject Test schedule for this spring, keep in mind that Phillips Academy is a test center for both the May 6 and the June 3 test dates--the latter for students who live in this area.  This test date is after exams end, and students are expected to take the tests at home.  All test centers are listed in the SAT Registration Bulletin. 

HOW DO I REGISTER FOR THE SAT SUBJECT TESTS?  Registration forms are available from CCO.  You can also register on-line at www.collegeboard.com.  When registering, prepay for the minimum number of tests you are certain to take on a given date -- you will not be reimbursed if you decide to take fewer tests.  However, you will be billed if you decide to take additional tests at a later date.  If you have any questions, please stop by and briefly speak with your College Counselor or one of the office assistants.  The subject of testing is also covered thoroughly on pages 14-15 of our College Counseling Sourcebook (student edition).

Here are a few guidelines to help you determine which Subject Tests to take:

THE AMERICAN COLLEGE TEST (ACT) is acknowledged by most colleges and universities in the U.S. as an acceptable substitute for the SAT Reasoning Test and sometimes substitutes for both the SAT Reasoning Test and SAT Subject Tests.  You and your college counselor can discuss whether taking the ACT on Saturday, April 8 or June 10 is appropriate for you.  Registration materials are available in the CCO or online at www.actstudent.org.  Phillips Academy is an ACT test center on April 8, but Andover High School is a test center for the February, April, June, and October administration of the ACT.

  Students eligible for special testing arrangements should see Ms. Davison in OWH Library right away.

  Fee waivers are available in college counseling for full scholarship students.