<p>I think something people don’t realize (and this is after going to Cornell myself and talking to an admissions officer) is that test scores matter to Cornell the very least. For any student applying this year who reads this!!
Speaking to the undergraduate admissions officer, it seems that what they look for first is that you show dedication to a more specific area of intellectual interest and second, that you are challenging yourself the most you can with what you are given and prove to be successful.
He said that the SAT scores are considered, but only to really eliminate the low scorers. If you’re in the 650+ range you’re fine.
Focus on ESSAYS and TEACHER RECOMMENDATIONS. Show that you are intellectually curious and intrinsically motivated. The biggest no-no’s are giving tons of recommendations and tons of ECs that have nothing to do with what you’re applying for.
Best of luck 
I’m applying ED for Cornell this year.</p>