My current stats are:
GPA- 4.2, took 1 AP sophomore yr, doubled in science + 4 APs junior yr, and will be taking 5 APs + 1 DE as a senior
ACT- 30 (33 E, 28 M, 31 R, 29 S)
SAT- 1300 (670 English, 630 Math) *Most likely I will not submit my SAT score since it kinda sucks :))
For sure I will apply to GMU and JMU early action since they are target schools for me, but not sure yet about UVA as it’s more of a reach. My ACT score rests at their average and I am worried about my grades since I got a C+ in AP chem and 2 B+'s in APUSH and AP calc AB. I plan to take the ACT again in September to get at least a 32, and take the SAT subject tests in August for math 2 and maybe physics. I’m sure my senior grades will be much better, and would probably get my GPA at a 4.3. Would it be better to apply regular so that my grades improve, or would my chances increase by applying early action and then sending in my grades later if I got deferred?
Are you talking about a SCEA school like Harvard? Are you hooked? If not, I would say no, because unfortunately the ACT score is not high enough for Harvard and the like. Retake and try to bring it up to a 32 at least. Applying ED or SCEA to schools like that is only a slight advantage if you already have the stats those schools are looking for. Your 30 will not be overlooked just because you apply early and you are then limiting your opportunties to apply EA to less selective colleges.
If you are talking an eite college then I would wait until your application is at its strongest to apply. If you apply EA there is also a chance of being rejected outright. For you it sounds like RD would be a better bet so you can hopefully apply showing improved senior year grades and a higher ACT.
As I will tell anyone, it is important to honestly assess your academics and apply to a mix of reach, match, and safety schools that appear affordable and that you would be happy to attend. You might consider applying EA/rolling to some less selective schools.