Chances of getting into a PhD program with 2.9 GPA

snrodrig
Mon, 07 Oct 2013 21:24:49 +0000

Hey guys,

I have just finished my undergraduate career. I am now looking for a Phd program in Aerospace/Mech Eng. However, as the topic of the thread says I have a 2.9 gpa from one of the top schools in the nation for structural engineering. I know most schools have a 3.0 cut off for apps but I’ve also heard from my PI and other PhD students that the gpa limit is more of a suggested gpa, not so much of stringent requirement. So maybe I can still consider applying, just for the hell of it. Now, I know that there are a couple of things that really weigh the admissions process:


GRE scores
GPA
Great Letters of Rec
Research Experience


Out of the 4, I have 3. I’m just trying to get a realistic answer of what I can do to make sure I can stand out of the pool of competitive applicants that have all 4. Also, I think it is to my advantage that I am the first out of my immediate/extended family to go to college. Any thoughts, suggestions, comments?