So I applied early with a 34C but made the stupid choice of sending my SAT II scores for free without actually seeing them. I did pretty well on two of the three tests I took but COMPLETELY bombed Math II. Math was also my lowest section on the ACT (all the others were 35/36s). I understand that Harvard only requires two SAT IIs, but will they hold my Math II score against me? Should I retake in Jan knowing that I already have pretty good scores (700+) in the other two subject tests? I was deferred, if that helps.
No matter how many SAT Subject Test scores you submit, Harvard will use your top two scores to calculate your Academic Index (AI). Beyond that, Harvard probably uses any additional SAT Subject Test scores submitted as a double-check against transcript grades.
Bottom line: If you already have two SAT Subject Tests that are 700+ and a 34 ACT then you shouldn’t bother retaking the Math II test, as you’re already in Harvard’s middle range and are considered a competitive applicant.
As Harvard receives more applications from competitive applicants than they have room in the freshman class, Admissions uses a student’s teacher recommendations, guidance counselor’s Secondary School Report (SSR), interview report and essays to select one high performing student over another. So, a re-take of Math II, even if you score an 800, is not going to boost your chances.