What is the difference between SAT Subject Tests and Advanced Placement classes and exams?
SAT Subject Tests are high school–level tests, reflecting high school curricula. These tests indicate a student’s readiness to take college-level courses in specific subject areas. AP® Exams, however, assess a student’s college-level knowledge, skills and abilities, learned in the corresponding AP courses. As a result, the topics covered on SAT Subject Tests may differ from those covered on AP Exams, with AP Exams typically covering more advanced topics with a greater depth that is more reflective of a college-level course. While AP exams are also an excellent way to demonstrate understanding in specific subject areas, not all students have an opportunity to take AP courses across a broad range of subjects and in time to meet college admission deadlines. For students who lack access to AP and still wish to demonstrate subject knowledge, the Subject Tests offer this opportunity. In general, students who have taken more rigorous courses (e.g., honors, AP, IB, dual enrollment) are better
