Hello, so I was wondering if anyone has some idea of what the lower SAT scores that Caltech has accepted have been. For example, I ended up with a 2130 the first time I took it (with about 15 practice tests averaging in the low 2200s). The real problem is a 700 math. I am retaking the SAT but I’m worried because I can’t consistently score 800s on the math. If I get around a 740 but get an 800 on the math 2 does it even matter?
I don’t have anything really significant to put on my application so my chances are already slim and I’m just not good at SAT math.
I wish I didn’t love Caltech. XD
Also, some random questions:
-How important is course load? (How much does a fairly advanced math-science load help?)
-If my school requires me to do a mentorship or research, is it less impressive?
Any “I got into Caltech and I’m not amazing” stories are welcome!
I got in EA with 2010 (I know, shocking right), but I received a 780 in math. I think as long as you have consistent grades and show that you’re truly interested in math and science as well as the school itself, then you’ll have a chance. A lot of people say a bad SAT will completely ruin your chances, but that isn’t always the case. Anyway, good luck!
I’d like some info. on this as well. Do smart kids without a hook (URM, legacy) get in very often? I am in no way diminishing the impressive stats of the student body and the hard work and natural talent but what about the kid who is passionate about math & science but hasn’t done research, won awards, competitions, etc. and has competitive but not top end scores (no test prep, etc.). Do they get in and if so, do they/you like it there?
WestCoastKid101 - It’s all about “fit”. If you are not strong in math/science, you may struggle when you get to Caltech. Test scores/awards/research papers are just some indicators of strength in math/science. My son scored 5’s on the AP’s, 800’s on the SAT Math/SAT2’s, took all of the junior college level math classes and is finding the freshmen curriculum really challenging. If you are a kid who is passionate about math & science and is competitive, but does not have the top end standardized test scores, consider other measures/activities to convey your aptitude (e.g. participation in summer science/math camps? reviews of technical articles in scientific journals?). Good Luck!
Also, think of it this way: Actions speak louder than words. If you haven’t reached out to gain experience in math, science/etc. inside and/or outside of school, then proclaiming that you love STEM in an essay will not do much to convince the admissions committee that you’re telling the truth. With that said, also don’t do things only to add to your resume–make sure you really like it or else if you come to Caltech, you’re going to have a bad time.
Thanks, Coli1TBD and Chewydog. The passion and outside experience is there (clubs, internships, personal projects), just not research and perfect test scores. High SAT’s but no intense prep at all. Definitely no “resume building” which I suppose is actually my concern (not just for CalTech but for all the competitive schools). I will keep faith in the process. Thanks again!
You don’t need perfect SAT scores, but try to push to get at least a 2200-2250 on the SAT. Get some practice in and figure out what your weaknesses are. For example, if you keep missing questions on triangle problems, go to the section on that in your review books to review and get some extra practice on them. Otherwise, try the ACT.
If you get a 740 on SAT I math and an 800 on SATII math II, you should be fine.
Thanks guys! I just took the SAT again and felt really good until I realized I had neglected a part of the essay question. I feel like they would be alarmed by too much variation in any section but I highly doubt I’m going to bother retaking. There are rumors that they super score, anyone know anything about that?
Anyway, I’m starting to realize that Caltech’s scores seem to be “naturally high”, as in, they don’t really care as much as it seems. I feel like the kids who happen to “fit” just tend to have higher scores but certainly don’t have to have them. I know, this isn’t really a breakthrough. XD
