<p>I think it’s factually correct that Caltech’s admitted class is about as highly selected as to standardized test scores as they come, which is why (besides Ben’s known openness about the admission process) I came here to ask my question that opened the thread. Caltech is strict about standardized test scores, but it isn’t crazy about them. You get a second chance–and even a third chance–if your first score was dissatisfactory, and willingness to do the learning that you acknowledge is within the capacity of anyone who would thrive at Caltech is perhaps an implicit test of “passion” for studying there. Students who score at the low end of Caltech’s admitted class can find, if they are not admitted to Caltech, that there are other opportunities to study math or science in vibrant intellectual communities on other campuses.</p>