Harvard makes small change to Subject Test Requirements

The following will soon be on Harvard's website:

New Advice and Requirements to Applicants about Standardized Testing

We require all applicants to complete the SAT Reasoning Test OR the ACT Test with Writing.  We normally require, in addition:  

Two SAT Subject Tests.  If you choose to submit Subject Tests, it is more useful to choose only one mathematics test rather than two.  Similarly, if your first language is not English, a Subject Test in your first language may be less helpful.  

While we normally require two SAT Subject Tests, you may apply without them if the cost of taking the tests represents a financial hardship or if you prefer to have your application considered without them.  Standardized testing is only one component of our holistic admissions process and your application will be evaluated on the basis of all of the other information you submit.  

Subject Tests can be helpful both for admissions and course placement purposes.  Students whose first language is not English and those less familiar with standardized tests such as the SAT or ACT can often demonstrate their academic progress more effectively by submitting Subject Tests.  International students generally benefit from submitting Subject Tests and should take them if possible as they are unlikely to be admitted with the SAT or ACT alone.   

The decision whether to take Subject Tests is entirely up to you.  You should ask yourself whether other academic credentials including, but not limited to, AP results, IB marks, A Levels grades, etc., adequately represent your suitability for studying at Harvard.  If there is any doubt, you should take two Subject Tests.  Official scores of such tests as APs should be sent if possible but can be forwarded after matriculation if expense is a consideration.

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