Schools Getting Into Grad School: Advice for Students with Low GPA

AI Thread Summary
Graduate programs often require a minimum GPA of 3.0, which poses a challenge for applicants with lower GPAs, such as 2.95. To enhance chances of acceptance into a math graduate program, candidates should focus on achieving a strong GRE score, particularly in the Math Subject test, which is scheduled soon. Work experience in the field and strong recommendations from supervisors can also bolster an application. Networking with professors in the desired departments may provide an advantage, as personal endorsements can influence admissions decisions. Inquiring about conditional or probational acceptance options is advisable, though such opportunities may be limited and typically require a standout application. Additionally, utilizing study resources and practice tests for the GRE can help improve performance.
MrJB
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Many graduate programs seem to require at least a 3.0 gpa in undergraduate coursework. My undergrad gpa was ~2.95. What can I do to get into a graduate program? I graduated a year and a half ago with a BS in physics, but I'd like to do math. I've taken / am taking a few math courses since then to fill in what I didn't take as an undergrad. Any advice?
 
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An outstanding GRE score in math and/or physics would probably help a lot. How are your GREs?
 
Physics GRE was at 65 percentile.
I'm scheduled to take the Math Subject test in less than a month.
 
Have you been working in your field since you graduated? Work experience helps, as well as a good recommendation from your supervisor.

Do you know any professors in the departments you're applying to? If a professor can personally vouch for you, that may tip the scale enough to grant you an acceptance.

You could also inquire whether the grad departments would allow you a conditional or probational acceptance. Usually, that means you are given a semester or a year to prove that you can make the grade. Your application would have to really stand out for them to take that chance, though.
 
I have not been working in field. My low gpa has been a barrier to that.

I'm still not sure where to apply. I'm looking for not top tier programs to apply to.

Thanks for the suggestion, I will ask about conditional or probational acceptance. I'm not sure how common it is.
 
MrJB said:
Physics GRE was at 65 percentile.
I'm scheduled to take the Math Subject test in less than a month.

I'd recommend taking whatever practice tests or other math GRE tutorial material that you can find. Have you found any good study resources specifically tailored to the math GRE?
 
berkeman said:
Have you found any good study resources specifically tailored to the math GRE?

I'm planning on swinging by a bookstore this week to find a study guide for the test. I've worked though most of the sample test on the GRE website.
 

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