<p>Just go here and see where a 700 in each section places you:</p>
<p>[Testing</a> Statistics](<a href=“http://www.dartmouth.edu/admissions/facts/test-stats.html]Testing”>http://www.dartmouth.edu/admissions/facts/test-stats.html)</p>
<p>And when considering the 700-790 range, look at the percentage of applicants admitted with 690s, and ask yourself how a 700 probably does as compared to a 780. Then ask yourself how many of the bottom 25% of scorers are likely to be hooked.</p>
<p>No, the numbers aren’t everything by any means. And yes, the one sure way to not get in is not to apply. But what this kind of chart demonstrates is that–in general–they are looking for the kind of students who post very high stats AND have great essays AND have great recommendations AND other things to offer, not kids who have other things to offer INSTEAD OF great stats. Yes, anyone could be the exception to the rule, and it is fine to dream a dream, but it is important, IMHO, to be realistic at the same time in order to make sure that you have real choices next April.</p>
<p>I don’t mean to be terminally discouraging, but I do think that people need to realize that there is a reason why there are schools called “reaches” and “lottery schools.” By all means try, but always make sure to have a list with good safeties and matches–including a financial safety!</p>