SAT® Subject Tests - Mathematics Level 1

When should I take it?

Most students take the Math Level 1 subject test as they are nearing the end of Algebra II in school—June of junior year for most students. What’s "on" it?

Topics covered by the Math Level 1 subject test include:

• Numbers and Operations
• Algebra and Functions
• Geometry and Measurement (plane geometry, three-dimensional geometry, and trigonometry)
• Data Analysis, Statistics, and Probability

In other words, if you’ve taken Algebra I, Geometry, and Algebra II with Trigonometry, you should have covered most of what you’ll need to know to do well on the Math Level 1 test.

Do I have to take it?

Many selective colleges require applicants to take 2 or 3 SAT® subject tests. You should check with the schools on your college list on a case-by-case basis. If you do not yet have a college list, you should probably go ahead and take 1 or 2 SAT® subject tests before senior year. Why? Your college list may change . . . and scrambling to complete applications, prepare for (and take) subject tests, and keep up in school, all during the fall of senior year, is not a good idea.

How long is it?

The Math Level 1 test is composed of 50 multiple-choice questions. Students are given 60 minutes to complete the test.

Should I take Level 1 or Level 2?

This is a tough question to answer.

• If you’re already in Calculus and you’ve been a solid A/B math student throughout high school, you should seriously consider Level 2. If you take a few practice tests and get really frustrated, however, experiment with Level 1. (For expert advice and guidance, purchase ePrep’s Math Level 2 study program or ePrep’s discounted Math Combo study program.)
• If you’ve taken Pre-Calculus and are a solid A/B math student, you should experiment by taking practice tests in both Level 1 and Level 2. (For expert advice and guidance, purchase ePrep’s discounted Math Combo study program.)
• If you’re finishing up Algebra II and you are a solid A math student, you should experiment by taking practice tests in both. With some help from ePrep, you may be able to handle the Level 2. (For expert advice and guidance, purchase ePrep’s discounted Math Combo study program or ePrep’s Math Level 1 study program.)
• If you’re finishing up Algebra II and you’re a B/C math student, you should take Level 1. (For expert advice and guidance, purchase ePrep’s Math Level 1 study program.)