<p>I had some really serious medical problems (which I will be explaining in the Common App) throughout sophmore and junior year that caused me to miss a lot of school and therefore have a lower school average. My average (not including senior year obviously), is 3.79 unweighted and 4.26 weighted. It would probably be more weighted but my school only starts offering most APs senior year. However, I've taken the most difficult courses offered even during the time I had problems. My average will go up by a good amount by mid year grades though. How much of a problem do you think this will be? I'm taking the ACT this month but so far I've been getting good scores on my practice tests.</p>
<p>I really do not think that is will be that much of a problem. They will not penalize you for having lower stats because of medical issues. That being said, your GPA is not even that bad, even without medical issues (but I get it; you know it could be better). Anyways, I really would not worry about it. The colleges will definitely take into account your medical issue. That is the beauty of the holistic admissions process. Competitive colleges will not just toss your application because one of your stats is not within a certain threshold.</p>
<p>*NOTE: If your medical issue kept you from acquiring/participating in extracurriculars, you must elaborate on that in your application as well.</p>
<p>I would say that you have a pretty good shot. You took the most rigorous courses you could and it sounds like you are practicing a lot for the ACT. Just stay focused on school, keep doing the ACT practice tests, and do your best. I wish you the best of luck with your applications!</p>