<p>Folks, test scores, including “perfect” scores, are not hooks. This is not the definition of a hook. </p>
<p>A hook is a special category not (usually) academic in nature. So even an academic award is not usually a hook; it may be a strong qualifier, and particularly combined with high gpa, high test scores, etc.</p>
<p>Hook is most often described as a special category of admits: athlete, major family donor, URM, true celebrity, etc. Then there are things that are tips, such as poverty, such as a special concentration in an e.c. or in an academic area or a community service accomplishment that is esp. unusual. While none of these hooks or tips are enough for admission in themselves, they can be important when combined with great scores & can certainly make the difference.</p>
<p>(And note that there are a number of applicants who get admitted to highly regarded schools without the above mentioned hooks, but with strong academics, great essays, etc.)</p>