<p>Hey. I really had to make this thread, as I'm pretty nervous.
I just got back my IB results. For those unacquainted with this system, the IB curriculum comprises of 6 subjects, 3 at higher level [HL] and 3 at standard level [SL]. A point system is used for each subject, from 1 to 7. 3 additional points are also given, based on a research paper and an essay on philosophy.</p>
<p>My grades:
Math HL- 7
Physics HL- 7
Chemistry HL-7
English SL- 6
History SL- 6
French SL- 6</p>
<p>I guess my grades are quite competitive, and show an inclination toward the sciences. Moreover, I got 800s in SAT II Math II, Physics and Chem, which perhaps adds to that.</p>
<p>HOWEVER, I got NO additional points, as I got a 'D' on my Physics research paper, and a 'C' on my philosophy research paper. My Physics teacher had told me that although my paper was impressive and novel, it broke some conventions according to the IB criteria and guidelines. I took the risk of giving in the same paper, and got the treatment.</p>
<p>I guess the impression created here is that I've learned up some facts about Science and Math, but am not very adept at research, or creating new science, which in my humble opinion is quite detached from the truth. I've also attached a research paper to my Caltech application, which hopefully might rectify this perception.</p>
<p>Do you think I'm doomed because I did not get the additional 3 points??
NOTE:- Almost all students from my cohort got the 3 additional points. I really don't know how to react except to succumb to shock and disbelief. </p>
<p>Any help or suggestions are most welcome. Thanks. :)</p>
<p>^For those who don’t know, I’m an international applicant from the Singaporean [Indian?] pool, and in need of financial aid [lots of it would be really nice :)]
You could check out my [rather long] chance thread for more details.</p>
<p>Your stat so far is fine, 'cause you have chosen all science subjects and get a 7 in all of them. However, you still need SAT I and some science-related activities.</p>
<p>Well… Don’t take me at my words, I’m just a fellow international applicant.</p>
<p>It’s just that I got a ‘D’ on my PHYSICS research paper, albeit for breaking convention [I’m giving myself the benefit of doubt :D]. I’m pretty sure that’ll be frowned upon…</p>
<p>I had another question. How can I confirm that Caltech has received my financial aid application yet? The Indian postal system is not recognized for its efficiency…</p>
<p>Erm…
The Pathfinder Institute in Kolkata conducts a 3-month long workshop in Physics, Chemistry and Maths for pre-university students. We basically do university stuff. It’s quite prestigious.
I got a full ride to attend this workshop [worth about 1000 US dollars- quite an amount by Indian standards].
Should I inform the university about this? I really don’t want to look like I’m padding my application…</p>
<p>Ya. Initially, it only offered training to WBJEE students [West Bengal].
Over the past 5 years, it also offers training to IIT JEE students. Also medicals, I think.</p>
<p>The classes I attend focus on international olympiad students. But now that I have no time for olympiads, I’m just there for the heck of it; my mum basically wants me out of the house :D</p>
