A low GPA could turn into a little demon that could torment any applicant who has a business with it. Sometimes, a low GPA doesn't mean an applicant is dull, but circumstances happen. You are not alone if your GPA has kept you from finding a good school for your graduate studies.

A low GPA does not mean an end to your beautiful future. Yes, it might be challenging to get into some of the prestigious schools abroad, but many universities await you with such results. 

Whether you want to study in the United Kingdom, Canada, or the United States, you can boost your chance with work experience, recommendation letters, or essays/SOP. However, it does not end here.

Is a 2.5 GPA good enough for graduate school? On average, many consider a grade lower than a 3.0 GPA below par academically. However, some schools create opportunities for applicants with lower GPAs.

Here are some of the things you can do to counter a low GPA:

Carefully Research Universities

Graduate schools have varying GPA requirements that often determine the type of students they would accept. For instance, some reputable schools may not accept a low GPA between 2.5 and 3.0. Remember that you should find a school that can accept your grade.

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Avoid the Early Admission Rounds

You should stay away from the early admission rounds because they are extremely competitive. With a low GPA, you may not stand a chance of gaining admission. Therefore, you should consider regular admissions that can help you to improve your test scores.

Take More Challenging Courses

You should consider taking extra courses from a MOOC platform or at your undergraduate university or college. Find additional courses that could increase your graduate admission opportunities.

Publish a Paper

When you realize that you are coming out with a low GPA, you should consider publishing a paper on your project, especially a peer-reviewed one. In addition, consider topics that can improve your graduate study.

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Get Work Experience

You should find a job or an internship in your related area when you complete your undergraduate degree. When you have work experience related to your chosen field, it becomes easier to gain admission.

Write a Great SoP/Essay

If you want to gain admission easily with your low GPA, write a convincing and strong Statement of Purpose (SoP) and essay. You should learn to write logically or use a professional agency to help you. An essay and SOP have become important tools that can help every applicant scale through the application process.

Get Strong and Personalized Letters of Recommendation (LoRs)

You need strong recommendation letters that can help you counter a low GPA. If you had impressed a lecturer in your undergraduate programme as a research assistant or a good student, you might want to request a recommendation letter from the lecturer.

With a strong recommendation letter, you can have leverage over your low GPA. If your letter can prove that you are smarter than your grades, it would be easier to accept you.

Showcase Your Extracurricular

Most schools don't only look at your GPA when you apply for graduate admission, especially in the United States of America. Instead, they consider applicants based on a holistic basis that includes your extracurricular activities.

You have to showcase what you do away from your grades, like your volunteer work, sports activities, and other extracurricular activities that can stand you out.

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Get Professional Experience

You should get an impressive CV to help you with the graduate school if you have a low GPA. Graduate school programmes often want to admit students with a passion for their study field and relevant skills. So we recommend you find a professional to help you with your CV preparation.

Prepare for the Interviews

You should prepare for your graduate school programme interview. Your performance can improve your opportunity of getting into school with a low GPA. Therefore, ensure you prepare thoroughly for your interview and practice until you improve how you answer your questions.

Contact Potential Supervisors

Many African students don't know this simple trick when they want to apply for graduate school. Irrespective of your grade, you can improve your funding and admission opportunities. 

• Get familiar with ongoing projects, the research theme, and recent publications.
• Send a short email (with CV attached)
• Inquire if the school is taking MS thesis students. You should ask for funding in the first email. 
• Follow Up

Best Time to Contact potential Supervisors: Summer (June – August) 

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Looking for MS Admission with low grades or an HND degree? Book Session today with us and see your dreams come true.