Hey guys, I’m just wondering that am I screwed if my ACT is bad. I have been receiving email for Uchicago for over 2 years and is definitely one of my top choice. I have a 3.9 GPA (UW) but only a 30 on ACT. I’m familiar that UChicago view the holistic application. However, this ACT is not only low (lower than 75% of Uchicago students at LEAST) but it is very loopsided. My score is 28, 35, 22, 35. So my reading score will definitely drag down the school’s average. I have pretty strong ECs, but it isn’t like athlete or buisness leader. It is more Academia based (published papers, etc). Even with the ECs, will I have any chance for the school?
Based on my experience with my own children, ACT scores can be improved through study, maybe 2 points which would put you right in there. Maybe your strategy for UChicago is not EA but RD. I think you still have time to bump up your composite score for RD. In addition to improving your composite score, the distribution of your subscores is very interesting. If I’m reading the subscores right, you performed nearly perfectly in science and math. This could be a factor with admissions as you choose your desired major. Your grades are excellent and your EC’s are strong, which is important because they are pretty much set at this point. Another critical factor is your desire to attend as expressed through your essays. As I and others have advised on this forum, it does not mean writing so called quirky essays necessarily. It means expressing clearly and honestly your strong interest in a field or direction, and how UChicago might be the best way to fulfill that strong interest. Best of luck to you.