On the outset, many students and parents are flustered by the many aliases used for SAT. The test which was first introduced in 1901, has undergone a series of revisions and refinements made over the years including its name. The following points would untangle the vital points between the two tests and define them as decidedly different.
What are the different names for
SAT I and
SAT II In a sequence of changes, the SAT has also been referred to as the Scholastic Aptitude Test or Scholastic Assessment Test in the past, then revised to SAT I: Reasoning Test or simply and commonly now known as the SAT or SAT I. Similarly, the SAT II formerly known as Achievement Tests are synonyms for SAT Subject Tests or SAT II.
Whats tested by these exams ?
SAT I is a reasoning exam which is intended to measure a students problem solving skills critical for college success and beyond. The SAT includes sections for Reading, Writing and Maths ; which tests the skills and knowledge that have been developed over course of everyday High School. On the Contrary, SAT II are subject-specific exams ranging from English Literature, Biology, History, Languages, Sciences etc. which are designed to measure a students proficiency and knowledge in particular subject areas. In general, Subject tests cover your knowledge of material while the Reasoning test scores you based on your intellect (ability to reason).
Who requires the test ?
The SAT I, the general SAT, is accepted as an admissions requirement by almost all colleges and universities in the US and is generally more popular with Eastern colleges than it is with Western schools.
Many colleges use the Subject Tests for admission, for course placement, and to advise students about course selection. But, it is not a requirement for every college.
Which test is easier ?
The SAT II can be pretty challenging depending on your level of knowledge about a specific subject.
The SAT I is easiest if you have a first-string vocabulary matched with a good understanding of grammar and are comfortable working with maths. It gets difficult if you dread writing and have difficult expressing yourself in writing. Some of the Maths questions are also grid-in i.e. you have to work out an answer to them and write on the sheet rather than ticking out on the multiple-choice questions. Some people dont like questions that arent multiple-choice.
How long does each Test take ?
The SAT I takes 3 hour 45 minutes while SAT II takes one hour for each subject covered. Some colleges may require the applicant to take one, two or three Subject Tests.