<p>My son can serve as a data point for LACalum’s case: he didn’t visit and didn’t interview and was accepted. I think “fit,” whatever the admissions office deems that to be, is the key. As I read more about Carleton, I was struck by how perfect it seemed to be for my son. And something in his application–essay, short answers, whatever–convinced the adcom that he’d fit in and add to his class at Carleton.</p>
<p>OP, you’re right about 31 being an excellent score, but this is sort of a hothouse environment where people are focused on the top colleges in the country. So, yes, it’s a great score, but, no, people aren’t overreacting when they suggest a second sitting. I completely understand your feelings, though. My son took both the SAT and the ACT only once. He really didn’t want college admissions to eat up his entire existence for his junior and senior years in HS. </p>
<p>As others have pointed out, the waitlist threads illustrate that test scores and GPAs don’t predict admission. Showing interest can’t hurt (unless you’re a pest about it).</p>