Forgot to reply back about the UK schools: You’re right that they’re more focused on your grades instead of test scores. But your IB scores are really great, and will the main focus.
The UK colleges are upfront about what they’re looking for in terms of score. Here are the requirements for LSE Bsc Economics:
**IB Diploma**
38 points overall (and above) including 766 in higher level subjects, with 7 in Mathematics.
Please also see subject combinations regarding Further Mathematics requirements.
You could apply ED1 to Chicago, and still apply to one or more of the UK schools without breaking your early decision agreement. The downside is that its very difficult to change majors after you get an offer. And the competition for the high profile majors like Bsc Economics is very high. But the pros are that you can graduate in 3 years. With Brexit and COVID, they are looking for full-pay internationals, so this might work to your advantage.