<p>Hi, i'm in quite a conundrum and would love the help of a couple of you.</p>
<p>The Common App for class of 2018 is now open and it leaves me the question "should I apply now, or later". I know you have probably heard this excuse before, but it rings true with me; I am a horrible test taker. Therefore, not to my surprise, I scored a 24 on the ACT (now you can see why i'm a tad apprehensive for applying). My GPA is in the 50th percentile of admitted students and I have some pretty awesome EC's, but my ACT is holding me back. I know the majority of students get deferred when applying early decision but would it help me? I am definitely taking the ACT until I can get around a 27 or a 28.</p>
<p>The ACT just stinks because I know I have the intelligence of a 27 or 28, but my lack of test taking skills pushes me back to a 24. To me it’s truly a travesty.</p>
<p>What’s your problem with the ACT?</p>
<p>Do you wish you had more time per section?
Do you wish there wasn’t a science section?
Do you wish the essay writing actually counted toward your composite score?</p>
<p>If you answered yes to these questions, then you should consider taking the SAT. Some people like the SAT more than the ACT.</p>
<p>Here is my advice:</p>
<p>Just fill out the Common App, BUT DO NOT TURN IT IN YET. You could start filling out the Common App today and submit it in September.</p>
<p>Additionally, you should look into taking the ACT again and/or taking the SAT (ASAP).</p>
<p>When does early action end? November 1st right? I also have the same problem</p>
<p>If the OP is a horrible test taker, then it may not matter if he or she takes the SAT but if there is time it wouldn’t hurt in case there is something unique to the ACT. I am not sure if OP is in-state or OOS. If U-M is very familiar with the high school, the transcript will matter more. That is more likely if OP is in-state.</p>
<p>It may not hurt to consult with the guidance counselor when school is back in session.</p>
<p>I would just spend more time practicing for the ACT. Like literally spend hours on hours taking practice tests and reviewing the answers you got wrong, especially if you can find a book that has explanations for the correct answer. Or look into joining a Kaplan class or something like that. A 24 ACT is pretty much impossible for admittance. Even a 27 is very difficult for an instate student. For a good chance, you would likely need at least a 28 or 29. Having 2 more points on your ACT is more important than applying EA, in my opinion.</p>
<p>You may have to look into other options that are not UM.</p>
<p>Reach either way unless you have both an almost perfect gpa and a great story.</p>