I applied to VCU last fall during October. Because Shenandoah was my first choice, I opted not to apply to VCU as "Early Decision," but since Shenandoah had no "Early Decision" either, I applied to both at the same time. I interviewed with VCU about a week before Shenandoah and got accepted about two weeks after my interview (early November). Although I will be going to Shenandoah, I was impressed by the interview and tour at VCU. (I want to go to Shenandoah because I am tired of living in a Metropolitan area because I live in Northern Virginia and yearn for a change of environment.)
I have a 3.65 GPA, a BA in Economics from years ago, and finished up my science pre-reqs at NOVA Community College over the last couple of years. My PCAT when I applied was a 61 and yes, I too suck at the standardized tests.
I honestly think the key is to apply early, reason being that all of my classmates and co-workers that decided to get their applications in later (December and later) simply have not heard anything. Apply as soon as PharmCas opens their window, and politely but assertively hound your professors to get you those letters of recs ASAP (yes, start asking them now, most professors take at least a couple of weeks to write your letter.)
Also, it should be easy for you to get pharm experience. Personally, if you are not certified, forget about applying to the big chains like CVS. I went to those stores but found that they "preferred" certifieds, which is very understandable. I got my start at Target Pharmacy, which takes uncertifieds. You may also want to consider Wal-Mart or grocery stores like Giant or Safeway, which may take uncertifieds. My point is that you want to consider as many stores as possible, and your goal should be to get somewhere that takes uncertifieds. I wouldn't take the PTCB test either until you are employed, because (1) it is not a hard test and most if not all knowledge can be acquired on the job with just a little studying on the side and (2) many companies will pay for it.
I agree with other posts that you don't have to have experience to get into school, but I think that it is very doable (even if it is for one shift a week) and will enhance your chances. Simply put, in both of my interviews, I talked about my pharmacy experiences and I could tell that my interviewers were impressed by my awareness of pharmacy as a profession, as a business, and the struggles that patients sometimes fight to overcome.
You are doing the right thing by considering your options. I hope that I have helped you in some way. Don't be afraid to contact schools that you are interested in and gain their perspective. But yes, I think applying as early as possible is critical, especially if your PCAT is not that great. Put simply, it is better to apply now (being that you have taken the PCAT at least once) than to wait until the October test rolls by in order to attain a higher score. Competition is at its lowest in the beginning, and remember that the "Early Bird gets the Worm."