The SAT Subject Tests in German evaluate skills in German grammar, vocabulary, and reading comprehension.
A student with a strong background in the language, including at least two or three years of formal study in high school, should consider taking the German Subject Test.

Why take the SAT German Subject Test?

In some cases, you'll need to take them, especially if you're considering choosing German as your major. In other cases, it's a great idea to take the German Subject Test so you can showcase that highly sought-after skill of bilingualism. It shows the college admissions officers that you have more up your sleeve than your GPA. Taking the test, and scoring high on it, demonstrates qualities of a well-rounded applicant. Plus, it can get you out of those entry-level language courses.

When should I take the German test?

To ace this thing, you'll need at least two years (but preferably four) in German during high school, and you'll want to take the test as close to the end of or during your most advanced German class you plan to take.

What’s the difference between the German test and the German with Listening test?

The German test includes reading only — you read in German and answer multiple-choice questions. The German with Listening test includes an additional listening portion — you listen in German 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, many colleges indicate the German with Listening test gives them a fuller picture of your ability and may be more useful for placement purposes.

Which German is used on the German test?

The language used on the test is taken from pieces written and dialogue spoken by those who use German in their everyday lives. Words or sayings specific to certain geographic areas will not be used in the test. If you’ve had at least two years of strong preparation in the language, then you should be able to understand the German on the test.

SAT German Subject Tests Basics

Part A - Sentence Completion
Part B - Paragraph Completion
Part C - Reading Comprehension
60 minutes
85 multiple-choice questions
200-800 points possible
Conforms to the German spelling reform (Rechtschreibreform) as much as possible
2 different types of German questions: Reading comprehension and Vocabulary/Grammar in context.

About me & Why with me

By 10th grade, all students should be proficient in the subject matter on the SAT. That doesn’t mean they’re ready to take the test.
Sure, you need to brush up on your subject matter knowledge, but you also need to acclimate yourself to the test itself.

I take an educational approach to the German Subject Tests by emphasizing grammatical rules and establishing a strong breadth of vocabulary and idiomatic expression. My program is tailored to each student’s background in German, strengths, and weaknesses.
In one-on-one tutoring sessions and through homework, the student learns vocabulary, grammatical rules, and concrete approaches to reading comprehension. Timed, full-length practice tests provide opportunities for the student to exercise this knowledge and these problem-solving skills.
I provide personalized teacher-led SAT test prep solutions to help students master content and test-taking strategies, and score at their highest potential in the German subject.
Please contact me to get detailed information regarding the program and further general information.
If you are unsure about whether to take the German Subject Test with or without the Listening component, I will help you make a decision based on diagnostic test, coursework, and time each student has spent in a German-speaking environment.
Helga R.-Honigfort, M.Ed. German & English

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