<p>I realize that there are many other factors that are arguably more important, but it seems as if many colleges use standardized test scores as a filter before looking at the rest of an application.</p>
<p>On my first attempt taking the SAT (without studying), I got a 2290, but my subscores were an 800 in Critical Reading, a 780 in Writing, and a 710 in Math. I am currently in the process of preparing to do better and retaking it, and as a high school junior, I still have plenty of time.</p>
<p>The problem is that I really would like to at least have the option to go to prestigious technical schools such as MIT, Caltech, and Harvey Mudd because I am very interested in doing something related to STEM in the future, though I'm not sure what yet. I have the grades and recommendations for them, though my ECs, coursework, and awards are another matter.</p>
<p>How much better do I need to do on the Math portions of the SAT to ensure that these colleges truly consider my application, all other factors aside? Do I need to meet their middle 50%? What are my chances right now?</p>