Bad GPA from a good school, chance at PhD at a low-tier school?

[ConsideringGrad]

<p>

PhD PIs want some one who will do solid research. Can you live & work near a solid mid-range master’s level university, volunteer with a professor in your area of interest, get his/her endorsement. This might allow you a probationary admission to a masters, even with your sub 3.0 GPA.

</p>

<p>Could even 2.65 GPA get a probationary admission? Is that not too low?</p>