<p>I agree with the advice that you should take the ACT! There’s one in September and October, so you could still meet the early deadline with at least September. Your chances right now are not so good, and the glaring error I see is your SAT score. If you can do well (or better) on the ACT, that will definitely boost your chances. Higher test scores, an outstanding essay, and applying early decision will strengthen your application. It won’t help much, but you can use all you can get. Good luck.</p>