What kind of SAT II scores do you need to get into highly selective colleges?

Question

Such as UC Berkeley or Cornell?

I know you have to take 3 of them-- Math Level II, a Science, and another one.

I took the Bio M Sat II June 7th and got a 790

What do I need to get on the other two to get in?

I know the SAT IIs aren't nearly as important as other aspects, but they're reasonably important, right?

Answer 1

above 700 is great.. congrats on bio and it will help you out... as long as your grade in bio is consistant with your high score, and you are in a challenging bio class such as AP or honors.

There are different curves on some of the tests, though, and the colleges know that.  For instance, the math level II has a huge curve... you could score a 750 and be in the 80th percentile or something ridiculous.  

basically, the most important thing for colleges is the rigor of your program in high school and how well you did in it.  the SAT IIS are a supplement.  shoot for 700+ and you'll be fine

Answer 2

Generally, the competitive schools prefer you to get anywhere from a 700 to an 800 on your subject tests, so try to aim for that range.  SAT IIs are often of more importance than SATs to college admissions officers because many times, schools try to find a correllation between the subject you want to study and your aptitude for that subject.  In other words, if you were to apply to a school's biology program, then I'm sure you could easily get in, as the 790 will definitely work in your favor.  I hope this helps, and good luck!  :)