As an international student, the competition is even fiercer. International applicants often need even higher test scores and a more exceptional profile to stand out. Beyond test scores, these universities heavily weigh factors like:
* GPA: Your high school GPA needs to be exceptionally high (usually a weighted 4.0 or very close).
* Course Rigor: Taking the most challenging courses available (AP, IB, etc.) is crucial.
* Extracurricular Activities: Demonstrating exceptional achievements and leadership in extracurricular activities is essential. It's not enough to just participate; you need to have made a significant impact.
* Letters of Recommendation: Strong, glowing recommendations from teachers and counselors who know you well are vital.
* Essays: Your essays need to be compelling, well-written, and showcase your unique personality and aspirations.
* Awards and Recognition: Any significant awards or recognition in academics, research, or extracurricular activities will greatly boost your application.
In short: Your chances of admission to MIT, Caltech, or Stanford with this SAT score are very low, bordering on negligible. While it's not impossible, it would require truly exceptional strength in every other aspect of your application to compensate for the lower-than-average SAT score. You would need to be a truly extraordinary candidate in every other aspect.
Consider exploring other universities that might be a better fit for your profile and academic goals. These top universities are highly selective, and having realistic expectations is important. Focusing on applying to a broader range of schools, including some where your scores are more competitive, would increase your chances of acceptance significantly.