Rice University chances

Hello all! I am a rising senior, and right now Rice is my college of choice and I was wondering what my odds of getting in are… I plan to major in either biochemistry or neuroscience undergraduate and want to eventually go to medical school.

Freshman year- all pre-ap classes and AP Human Geography (all my school would let me take as a freshman)
Sophmore year- all pre-ap courses and AP World History and AP Art I
Junior year- pre-al pre cal, AP Language, AP Physics I, AP Art II, AP Psychology, and AP U.S. History
Senior year I will take- AP BC Calculus, AP Physics II, AP Chemistry II, AP Literature, AP Government, AP Economics, AP Art ( I will end up submitting both a sculpture and 2D Drawing portfolio as well).
-I have an overall average of a 4 on all AP exams taken, and am really close to being a national AP scholar

-Additionally, I will have played varsity golf for all four years

-My G.P.A is a 4.2

As far as extra curriculars go, I volunteer in the CVICU at the hospital for at least nine hours a week, I coach children’s golf, am a freshman fish head counselor, an NHS member, and ride hunter/jumper

My one concern is that my ACT score is too low at a 29. I am a very slow and methodical test-taker so I just can’t seem to score any higher… I am planning to take it one more time before the regular application deadline, but ideally I would like to apply for the Early decision deadline. How much bearing will this score have on my application? Any input is greatly appreciated, as well as any recommendations on navigating this complicated process!!!

Sincerely, Concerned applicant

Unfortunately it looks like your ACT score and GPA are below average for acceptance to Rice. Standardized test scores definitely do matter, and will weigh considerably into your chance at admission. Your extracurriculars seem to lack leadership as well (except the freshman fish head counselor, I’m not sure what that means), although your hospital volunteer hours are great. I’d say Rice would be a low reach/reach for you, but you would be improving your chances by applying ED. I’m sorry if that sounded harsh, but I just think it’s important to be realistic so as not to lead to disappointment. Best of luck to you!