Whether or not you should take the US History SAT Subject Test depends on your college application requirements and interests.
Let us look more closely now
Taking the US History SAT Subject Test can be beneficial for students interested in showcasing their knowledge in the subject and potentially strengthening their college applications. However, it ultimately depends on individual college requirements and personal interests.
According to the College Board, the US History SAT Subject Test assesses “a student’s knowledge of American history and their ability to analyze historical documents.” Some colleges may require or recommend this test, while others do not. It’s important to research the admission requirements of the colleges you are interested in applying to in order to determine whether or not the US History SAT Subject Test is necessary.
Aside from potential college application benefits, taking the US History SAT Subject Test can also provide students with a deeper understanding and appreciation of American history. As former President Barack Obama once said, “The study of history is not a source of strength only, but also a source of pleasure and satisfaction.”
To further assist in making a decision about taking the US History SAT Subject Test, below is a table of a few notable colleges and their respective policies on the test:
College | US History SAT Subject Test Requirement | Notes |
---|---|---|
Harvard University | Optional | SAT or ACT required; Harvard advises students to take at least two SAT Subject Tests |
Princeton University | Optional | SAT or ACT required; Princeton recommends two SAT Subject Tests |
Massachusetts Institute of Technology | Not required | MIT recommends that students submit two SAT Subject Test scores, but they can be in any subject area |
University of California, Los Angeles | Required | SAT or ACT required; UCLA recommends that applicants take two SAT Subject Tests, including one in a subject area related to their intended major |
Ultimately, it’s up to the individual student to weigh the potential benefits and requirements of taking the US History SAT Subject Test in order to make an informed decision.
Interesting facts on US History:
- The United States Constitution was signed in 1787 in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania.
- The Declaration of Independence was signed on July 4, 1776 in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania.
- The California Gold Rush occurred in 1849 and brought thousands of people from all over the world to California.
- The first Thanksgiving was celebrated by the Pilgrims and Native Americans in 1621 in Plymouth, Massachusetts.
- The American Revolution, which began with the Battles of Lexington and Concord in 1775, resulted in the United States gaining independence from Great Britain in 1783.
Quote on the importance of studying history:
- “The study of history is the best medicine for a sick mind; for in history you have a record of the infinite variety of human experience plainly set out for all to see.” – Roman statesman and philosopher, Cicero.
Answer to your inquiry in video form
Brooklyn Super Tutor TV provides advice on when to take SAT Subject Tests. It’s recommended to align the exam date with AP or final schedules of related classes, especially for history and science tests, and take them in May or June. Exceptions include math exams which can be taken when comfortable and literature exams which are better taken at the end of the junior year or early senior year. It’s also important to plan ahead for foreign language exams, complete them before college application deadlines and note that students cannot take the SAT and SAT Subject Tests on the same day.
Some more answers to your question
The College Board recommends that you take a college preparatory U.S. History class before you sit for the SAT Subject Test. The SAT Subject Test in U.S. History focuses on political, economic, social, and cultural history, as well as foreign policy, with most of the focus on the years after 1790. Political and social history are emphasized more than the others.
The College Board recommends that you take a college preparatory U.S. History class before you sit for the SAT Subject Test. If you’ve taken that course, then you’re in a great position to potentially excel on the exam. To review for the test, locate your class notes and old exams.
Most of the focus is on the years after 1790, though there is a small portion that has to do with earlier history. The exam includes political, economic, social, and cultural history, as well as foreign policy. Political and social history are emphasized more than the others.
I’m sure you’ll be interested
The U.S. History Subject Test covered pre-Columbian American history up to the present day. It focused heavily on the political and social history of these time frames as well as critical thinking. To prepare, students should focus on material covered in college-prep-level history courses.
Along with AP scores, good SAT Subject Test scores could help you earn college credit while saving on college tuition. As with any test, you shouldn’t walk in unprepared for what you’re about to face.