<p>Let’s get this out of the way first: DO NOT DO A GAP YEAR! Unless you already are established in a certain industry (say, you write for a few newspapers or are in an unusually high job position for your age at a stable company), a gap year is simply code for “year-round summer vacation.” Without a college diploma - let alone a HIGH SCHOOL diploma - there is little chance to do anything productive in a year, save for some supermarket cashiering or telemarketing.</p>
<p>Another thing to get out of the way: your scores are excellent, regardless of your special circumstances. Factoring in the fact that you just moved to the US five years ago and are not high-income, there is a one-hundred percent chance of you getting into a wonderful college. </p>
<p>I would absolutely suggest applying to as many in-state, public universities or even moderately selective private universities as you can. Though you skipped a year, it is far more impressive and productive academically to GO to college - even a less selective one - than repeat a year. If you do well in college, perhaps even study over the summer before your freshman year, you likely excel and be able to transfer. </p>
<p>Remember that it’s always better to take forward steps than stay in the same place. Even from a mental perspective, remaining in high school while everyone else graduates will be a major downer for your intellectual stamina. Will you have the same drive and academic enthusiasm the second time around? </p>
<p>Apply to college. Go for it. You can do it!!</p>