Hi everyone.
I’m sure a lot of you are stressed currently waiting to hear back from ED/EA results! Best of luck to you!!!
I’m currently compiling my RD apps (I sorta waited last minute but they’re almost there!) and I’m getting worried that my already low chances are even lower. I have a 33 on the ACT (34 E, 34 M, 33 R, 30 S; 36 W) which at other schools comparable to UChicago I feel isn’t weighing me down in any way as I’ve heard a 33 is a “cut-off” of sorts where scores stop to matter at that point, but is that score really 34 at UChicago and I’m put at an automatic disadvantage?
I’ve also heard that UChi is a very “score-obsessed” school where while they highly value good essays, good scores really help your chances. I have a 4.0 UW and am in the top 1% of my class, and also am first-gen (which I know isn’t a huge hook, but is a hook nonetheless), so do I still have as good of a chance as someone with a 34…35…etc. or am I already put at a disadvantage at the get-go?
Thanks in advance to all who reply! Like I said gl to the early applicants! 
https://www.chicagomaroon.com/article/2016/9/14/class-2020-survey/
Almost 35% of the incoming class had a 2300+. Only 13% had a 33, while 29% had a 34, and >30% had a 35/36.
So yes, according to the data, it seems like they do value scores more than a lot of top schools. But your stats are good! (Uchicago also superscores the ACT so if you took it multiple times you can superscore to a 34, 35.)
Stop worrying. They are NOT going to waitlist you because of one point on the ACT. That’s unreasonable.
You first generation hook will make you go much further than only 1 point on your ACT.
**** edit: If you are an over-represented minority, the 33 may hurt you since it’s close to the bottom percentile of accepted students. (My Asian friend last year was waitlisted with a 35/ 4.0) If you are not, don’t worry about it!
definitely not. UChicago is one of the schools where amazing essays could definitely override a lower SAT score of GPA. Dont be discouraged if you are slightly below average, just make sure you do the essays well!
In my experience, UChicago “cares” about essays more than other top schools. There is no way to get around the sheer volume of writing you will be doing in your first two years, so demonstrating that you are a capable essayist will go a very long way. I’m a firm believer and perpetual pitcher of Harry Bauld’s “On Writing the College Application Essay,” which is the sole reason I got into UChicago/Princeton. It’s not long, so please buy it now, read it from cover to cover, absorb the guidance, then write.
^^ Yes, the essay is the most important. But without the stats in the ball park, you will not be selected either. Afterall, UChicago is one of the most selective school in the US.
I got in with a 33. Just make sure your essays are solid.