<p>My SAT II subject test scores as follows:</p>
<p>Chem - 800
USH - 780
Math II - 770</p>
<p>Should I retake Math II? Is there any difference between a 770 and an 800 when applying to top math/science schools like MIT, Caltech, UChicago, etc.? I'm sure that I'm capable of getting an 800, it's just that I'd rather not waste my time if it's not a significant difference. Thanks in advance.</p>
<p>If you can do it, why not? An 800 on math is 90th percentile, so I’m sure it does make a difference especially for those engineering schools.</p>
<p>Thanks shizzle, that’s what I thought. I was just doubtful as to whether a 30 point difference was really significant in the context of my overall app (grades, transcripts, SAT I, ACT, APs, ECs, etc.) but it would probably be best to retake anyway.</p>
<p>On the contrary, it is not significant. You’ve demonstrated that you can do math. Every adcom knows that the difference between a 770 and an 800 is a couple of questions. They don’t give a **** once you get within a certain range, and you’re most certainly in that range.</p>
<p>^^ Agreed. Once you’re in their range, you’re fine.
Focus on other aspects of your application (ECs, essays, etc.) they’ll be a lot more significant than 30 more points on a stupid test.</p>
<p>I think that if the OP is extremely confident in getting an 800 next time then the OP should go for it. Personally looking at an 800 is more pleasing than a 770 regardless of the impact on college admissions.</p>
<p>If you’re a weak applicant to begin with, then every little bit helps, but I truly doubt that 30 points on an SAT II will be a deciding factor, or even a major factor. Your essays and recs are much more important to focus on.</p>
<p>I have a 770 as well. The first I took it, I got a 760. I studied some trig and took it again and got 770 
I’m good at math…but I reallyyyy suck at SAT math.
But I’d rather focus on other parts of my app than trying to bring my SAT II score up 30 points. I don’t think it’ll make or break your application.</p>
<p>I think the difference for you Smile is that you’ve already retaken and found that it may be a bit more difficult for you to achieve the 800, which is perfectly fine. 770 is a great score and will not likely hinder your application.</p>
<p>But if OP feels that an 800 is greatly within reach then I think OP should retake. If anything it’s personally satisfying.</p>