Hi everyone,
I’m a 22-year-old from Israel. I’ve been thinking of trying to apply to UChicago for fall 2021, and I was wondering if I have any chance at all.
I graduated high school with GPA of 3.8 (converted from the Israel system), and did some volunteering as well. Then I enlisted to the Intelligence Corps of the IDF (an elite unit) where I had two roles over a period of 3 years. Currently I work as a data analyst for a small startup, which is also one of the reasons I’m not taking the SAT (full time job, living on my own and need to save up for my education).
So I have two questions. one- will my service (even though it’s a foreign military) and job be taken into consideration? two- I have no academic background nor recent courses/scores, but I went through sorting and classification for my job and for the army, and took many tests and stuff on the way. Will it be enough?
Generally, what are my chances? Is there any point in even applying?
Would appreciate any thoughts and opinions shared 
Thanks!
International students generally cannot apply Test Optional unless they substitute with another appropriate exam:
“*We require some form of standardized testing from students who attend a high school outside the United States. International students may elect to submit one of several other forms of testing in lieu of an SAT or ACT score. Visit the International Applicants page for details. Students who are undocumented/DACA and attend high school in the United States may choose to use our test-optional policy.”
https://collegeadmissions.uchicago.edu/apply (Click on “Test Optional”)
Most colleges in the US require an SAT or ACT, so if you were planning to apply to additional US schools, you would likely be taking these tests anyway.
The answer to your first question is Yes, your military service and job will absolutely be taken into consideration! However, you will need to think through who can write your letters of recommendation and speak to your academic abilities. Generally, UChicago wants to see two letters from teachers; in your case, those supervisors responsible for your military education and training may be applicable. Give careful thought to who that might be and reach out to your international admissions counselor with questions. Your counselor can help answer the second question as well.
Chances are hard to predict; UChicago is a very selective admissions process! However, if you believe that the school is a great fit and you have a compelling reason to apply, then “going for it” makes a lot of sense. You need to have very strong essays that articulate not just why you are choosing to continue your academic journey at this point in your life, but also why you are drawn to UChicago in particular. By the way, last year the College welcomed a record number (for recent years) of US military vets to campus. JMO, but an Israeli intel guy would be just as promising in terms of bringing a unique perspective to the university community.
Good luck!