Stanford recommends that you take Math level 1 or 2 and take some type of science test (like physics). I got an 800 on the math level 2 but I only got a 680 on the physics test. Since that score puts me in the 48th percentile, would I be better off just not submitting it at all?
Most universities don’t look at the percentiles. I would send it.
I also got a 740 on math level 1 which puts me in the 88th percentile, should I bother sending this score either?
Actually Stanford recommends any two subject tests, not necessarily math and science, unless applying for engineering or science. Moreover, it prefers that you submit the math 2 rather than the math 1 if you choose to submit a math. It states that you will not be at a disadvantage if you do not submit subject tests but also states it considers them valuable in evaluating an applicant. That seems to be double talk for saying you will be better off if you submit them.The 680 is not great but it is not bad either so consider submitting both.
For Stanford and a number of other colleges, sending two maths would be counted as only one subject test toward meeting the recommendation or requirement for two because they want tests in different subjects. Typically, if you send two maths only the one with the higher score will be used (unless math 2 is stated as the preferred test). I see no point in sending the math 1 to Stanford, but there is no harm in doing so either.
Retake physics if possible.
Can you submit just 1?
I got in without subject tests so I really don’t think it will matter. ¯_(ツ)_/¯
But that’s assuming you’re well-rounded. If academics are your ticket in (i.e. you don’t do very many extra-curriculars, sports, talent, etc.) then you might want to retake or do a different test.
@universidude what other credentials did you have that you think made you stand out (since you didn’t submit subject tests)?
Here’s my advice. Take one more subject test (if you can schedule the time between now and apps) and plan to get a 720+ on it, somewhere in there. 750+ is better. If you get it, send that and the 800. If you do worse, send the two best. By adding one to the mix, the 680 won’t be as bad, because they’ll consider your two highest scores. Maybe look into literature, which I found pretty easy to break 700 on after AP Lang and my school’s summer work for AP Lit. If you’re good at history or a foreign language, try that out. Adding something humanities oriented could complement the math ii score nicely. You could even retake physics at the same sitting and plan to just get 710 or more.
Good luck!