This is probably
the most important criterion for admission to a graduate - masters or
doctorate program in engineering and science.
Since many of the candidates apply
to the MS program right after their bachelor degree, the undergraduate Grade
Point Average (GPA) becomes even more important. For some of you,
who have a few years of work experience after the undergraduate degree, the GPA can be
discounted to some extent.
Most of the top programs require a GPA of 3.00 on
4.00.
There are many
countries that do not have a GPA system. For example, In India,
universities have an absolute scoring system, where students are scored
on a fixed scale. So, most students do not get a GPA, but get a
percentage, like say, 65%.
If you have done
your bachelor degree from a university that does not score on a scale of 4.00, we
would recommend you to apply to the programs of your choice even you are not over 3.00
after conversion.
Particularly for universities which grade on a percentage basis,
we would recommend not even trying to convert your GPAs. Send your undergraduate
reports as they are and let the schools worry about the conversions.
Just mention your class rank, if you can and mention that your
percentage cannot be converted to a GPA scale.
A big mistake made by students is
trying to give reasons for their low GPAs. Dont whine about it. Take
responsibility unless you have a strong reason that you think the admission committee
should be aware of. In most cases, please dont use the extra essay question to
address the GPA issue.
If you have a low score in your
undergraduate degree, work hard on your GRE preparation and try to make
up for the weakness with a high GRE score.
It may not make
much sense to apply to top universities if you have a GPA of less than
3.0, unless you have significant achievements, like publication in an
international journal.
The
Fifth Issue - Statement of Purpose
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