<p>most of the top applicants have both research and GPA. Many with lower GPAs also do not have great research experience and therefore do not have great LORs. This is the trend-students who were together enough to get the top grades in rigorous courses and get involved in great research are rightfull at the top of the lists.</p>
<p>However, someone can do great research and remediate their prior poor performance. But it takes real dedication and effort in the research front.</p>