Spanish
There are two Spanish Subject Tests: Spanish and Spanish with Listening. Both tests evaluate your reading ability in Spanish. The Spanish Test with Listening also measures your ability to understand spoken Spanish, in addition to your reading ability. Find out more about taking the listening tests.
Recommended Prep
Three to four years of Spanish language study in high school (or two years of strong preparation), or the equivalent.
When should you take the Spanish test?
There are a few factors to consider while you're deciding when to take the test.
- You should have at least two years of strong preparation in the language, but the more the better. So, if you're continuing in high school Spanish next semester/year, then wait to take the test.
- You should be in a Spanish class when you take the test. You're likely not to do as well if you take the test after you haven't been in a Spanish class for several months.
- For seniors studying Spanish: if Spanish is a strong subject for you, be sure it's one of the SAT Subject Tests you take in time for your colleges to see your score. If you're only taking it for placement purposes, and not as part of your application for admission, wait until you're as far along in your course as possible.
- If you want to take the Spanish with Listening test, remember that it's only given in November (don't forget to bring a portable CD player with earphones!).
What's the difference between the Spanish test and the Spanish with Listening test?
The Spanish test usually includes reading only -- you read in Spanish and answer multiple choice questions. However, besides the reading portion, the test given in November also includes a listening portion -- you listen in Spanish and answer multiple-choice questions.
Although students report feeling more anxious about the listening portion, they also tend to do better on that part of the test. Plus, colleges say the Spanish with Listening test gives them a fuller picture of your ability and is more useful for placement purposes. In any case, remember that you won't have to write or speak in Spanish on either of these tests.
"Which Spanish" is used on the Spanish test?
The language used on the test is authentic; that is, it's taken from real things written and said by real Spanish speakers. The people that make the test don't include any words or sayings that are used in only one place, for instance, only in Mexico or only in Spain. If you've had at least two years of strong preparation in the language, then you'll be able to understand the Spanish on the test.
I hear a lot of Spanish in my home/family. Can I still take the Spanish test?
No matter how you acquired your knowledge of Spanish, it's important to show colleges what you know. Your score will count the same as that of someone who learned Spanish only in the classroom. If you've been exposed to a lot of spoken Spanish, then you should definitely take the Spanish with Listening test (it's given only in November).
For more information, including sample test questions, download a free copy of SAT Subject Tests Preparation Booklet (.pdf/2.34M).
