Should I retake an ACT score 32 for a third time? Please help.

Test Preparation
1

I first took the test in February and got a 29 composite with barely any studying:
31 English, 28 Math, 28 Reading, 29 Science.

I wasn’t satisfied with the score so I did a lot more prep to boost my math score and only some last-few-weeks-before-act prep for the other subjects. In June, I ended up with a 32: 30 English, 33 Math, 32 Reading, 31 Science.

At first I was pretty happy with this score, even though my already mediocre English score went down ANOTHER point.
But now that I’m considering very selective schools, I’m starting to kind of panic about my score. I had someone tell me on another thread that retaking this would be a good idea, but I’m feeling very discouraged because my English score got worse, and I haven’t studied since the test I took in June because I didn’t consider retaking it until now.

I’m certain I can improve the English score if I study but I’m scared of risking a decrease in my other scores as well. That would probably look bad for Georgetown especially since they require all scores sent.

The schools I’m applying to so far are:
-University of Washington
-UC Berkeley, LA, Davis
-Georgetown University
-Northwestern University
-Washington University in St. Louis

There are two more available test dates before applications are due: October and December.

If I were to start studying now, which date should I retake or should I retake at all? Is it worth the time and risk?
(I am also taking Math 2 Subject test in October and may have to retake that as well)
Or should I just give up on applying to these selective schools and stay at UW (in-state)?

I’m pretty conflicted right now but thank you to those who respond :slight_smile:

2

To be honest, for the flagships and top privates you’re considering, it completely depends on your GPA/courseload/class rank. I would seriously think about whether you have the time to study a lot. Don’t take it if you don’t have documented evidence (a successful practice test) that you have improved. However, a higher score would definitely help.

3

@Studious99, If you check my other thread there’s most of my stats: http://talk.collegeconfidential.com/discussion/comment/20817769#Comment_20817769

I’m taking 5 (technically 4 because 2 are combined) APs for my senior year and I’ll have about 2 months to study if I take the October test. Do you think studying an hour every week day and like three hours on weekends is a good plan?
Thanks!