<p>Unfortunately, after taking the SAT and ACT tests late in my junior year, I neglected to register for a chance to improve my scores until now (test dates in November and October respectively). While my past scores (30 ACT, 2040 SAT) are not unacceptable, I had little practice for both tests and feel I will receive much stronger scores when I take them again in the coming months.</p>
<p>Why this is all unfortunate is that in order to receive merit aid at Ohio State (currently my top school), I need to apply for early action - by November 1st. So, even if I do get the 33 or 34 I'm hoping for next month, will it even matter? What are the chances OSU will look at my October ACT score? I am fairly sure I still have a good shot at getting accepted, but it will be for nothing if I don't have the money to attend.</p>
<p>All insight is appreciated. Thanks!</p>
<p>It is possible – although not normal – to get your ACT results in as little as two weeks. So, you should go ahead and plan on applying by the November 1st deadline. It could work.</p>
<p>However, the fact is that OSU is very stingy with merit money for in state students. Going from 30 up to a 34 might help you less than you think. Seems like OSU decided it has enough (or too many?) in state students. I have heard lots of stories of smart students disappointed with aid from OSU.</p>
<p>Thus, for state universities, I recommend that you also apply to Miami in Oxford, Ohio. Much better aid than OSU. Also consider Ohio University in Athens. Looks like they have cut aid this year, but still could be cheaper than OSU.</p>
<p>I can also recommend Ohio Wesleyan, which has outstanding merit aid. You probably would get at least $25,000 per year. Wooster, Wittenberg, and Denison are also worth looking at.</p>
<p>It is indeed a bad planning. If you feel you may get a better score, you should have prepared for it thoroughly and retake it as soon as possible. At least, you should know what to expect from your current practice score by now.</p>
<p>I’m considering Miami as well, and I’ll probably check out Ohio Wesleyan. If I am able to receive some aid, I am still likely to choose OSU over Miami, however. I think Miami definitely has respectable academics, but I prefer the environment of Columbus over Oxford.</p>