<p>In order to go to a top school, say Duke or UVA for example, will these two things be a significant hindrance to my application?</p>
<p>I have had straight A's throughout high school (we use a 100 pt system but I assume that's a 4.0), but I will probably wind up with an 89 unweighted in my English Honors class (tough grading). I might be overreacting, but it is this a big deal?</p>
<p>Also, my biggest strength is math and science. I got a 740 on the math section of the SAT and a 700 on the CR. I know I am capable of an 800 on the math, which is only a 2 question difference, and I think both of my mistakes were careless. Is it worth taking the SAT's a 3rd time to get only 2 more questions right and probably no more than a small increase in CR? Do colleges really look at a 740 much differently than an 800 (or a 1440/2170 as opposed to a 1500/2230)</p>
<p>The straight A's are good - and let me tell you, one B (a very high B+ at that) will do absolutely nothing to your chances! Colleges don't just want robots with straight A's - even if you got a B in a class, it doesn't mean you're less intelligent/capable or anything like that. Relax - that B means nothing. B's happen. They make you human. They certainly won't hurt your chances anywhere, not even in the Ivy League - it's the personality and the passion that matter more.</p>
<p>As for your SAT.. taking it a third time should definitely be the last time you take it. I think you should do so if you think you can get 2250+ but just remember, a 740 vs 800 on the math probably won't matter, especially if you showcase your strength in math through ECs and things like that. If you can increase both the M and the CR, go for it. If it's just the M, I wouldn't bother. Good luck!</p>
<p>It will do absolutely nothing. Don't worry about it, and since you're a math/science person, a B (in fact, a high B+, which might as well be an A-) is fine in an English class! Hell, you could get a couple of them.</p>
<p>CR scores are quite good for a math/science person. Don't even bother retaking unless you feel the need for an 800M. 740 and 800 are pretty much equivalent.</p>