SAT Subject Tests: Languages
As you approach the point in your high school career where you need to start sending out applications, you may find yourself confused by SAT subject tests. Because they aren’t mandatory, strictly speaking, many students are left wondering whether or not they need to take any of the tests. While some schools do not require any subject test scores, others require at least one from prospective students. It’s important to check with the admissions offices of any colleges you’re applying to beforehand in order to avoid any unpleasant surprises.
There are 20 different SAT subject tests, and over half of them fall into the category of language tests. Obviously, your proficiency with a language should determine whether you take the test or not.
At Concepts Mastery, we’re dedicated to helping students get the SAT subject test grades they need to get into their top schools. To learn more about how our Austin-area teachers can help your child, contact us today by calling 512-767-5323.
Format
Twelve of the 20 different SAT subject tests are language tests. They are:
- Chinese with Listening
- French
- French with Listening
- German
- German with Listening
- Modern Hebrew
- Italian
- Japanese with Listening
- Korean with Listening
- Latin
- Spanish
- Spanish with Listening
Most tests cost $11 to take per test, though tests with listening sections cost $21 per test. Students taking these tests must bring a portable CD player and earphones to the test center.
What’s On the Test?
According to the College Board website, there is no difference in difficulty levels between the listening and non-listening tests, although college admissions offices might prefer students who have taken the listening test. The College Board also notes that native speakers compete on the same tests as non-native speakers, and are therefore likely to score considerably better than non-native speakers. Admissions offices should know this and take it into consideration.
Because the SAT language subject tests cover 12 different exams, there is a fair amount of diversity from test to test. However, all are designed to test a student’s proficiency in a given language. Questions will test a student’s understanding of vocabulary and grammar consistent with college-level courses.
At Concepts Mastery, our Austin tutors are dedicated to helping students get the good grades they need to get into top colleges. If your child is struggling in school and you’re not sure what to do, contact us today by calling 512-767-5323.
To learn more about SAT subject tests, click here.
