SAT Subject Tests - what you need to know!

Colleges May Require Subject Tests

Some colleges require or recommend that you take SAT Subject Tests, especially if you’re applying to take specific courses or programs. See a list of colleges that require, recommend, or consider Subject Tests. 

The Basics

• There are 20 SAT Subject Tests in five general subject areas: English, history, languages, mathematics and science. See the subjects.
• Each Subject Test is an hour long. They are all multiple-choice and scored on a 200–800 scale.
• Subject Tests test you on your knowledge of subjects on a high school level. The best way to prepare is to take the relevant courses and work hard in them.

When, Where, and How

• SAT Subject Tests are generally given six times in any given school year, on the same days and in the same test centers as the SAT — but not all 20 tests are offered on every SAT date. Find out when specific tests will be given.
• The Language with Listening tests are only offered in November.
• You can take one, two, or three Subject Tests on any test date.
• You can’t take the SAT and an SAT Subject Test on the same day.
• Some SAT Subject Tests require you to bring special equipment — for example, CD players for Language with Listening tests.
• You choose what tests to take when you register, but on test day, you can add, subtract, or switch tests — with some limitations. Learn more.