Should I Take the September Test?

Hi all. I've been studying since January of last year and took my first official test in June 2026. I got a 158 on that test although my PT's had ranged from upper 150's to mid 160's so I was pretty upset although not extremely surprised. I then took a week break and then continue studying for the August test. My score gradually went down, then shot back up to my low to mid 160's range. I took August and felt pretty good about it, then received my score back and basically did the same as my June test. I am someone who is wanting a 170+ and ideally wants to apply "early". I know this is sometimes seen as an unrealistic expectation, but I want to go to a great school and am willing to do whatever I have to to get there. That being said, I am registered for the September and October administrations. I don't know if taking September is a "wasted" attempt if I don't feel a lot more confident about seeing improvement just yet, and maybe it would be more beneficial to really grind until October and take that test only. If I still don't get where I want to be, I am left with either applying later this year with a November test score that's hopefully in the 170's, or I delay my application until next admission cycle in 2028. I'm feeling conflicted because I don't want to leave my future self in 2028 with only one final attempt, but I also am afraid to potentially take only one test (October) or risk not applying early. I'm looking for advice on what I should do next (Be nice please LOL). Thank you!