<p>
GPA and test scores are probably the LEAST important factors of a graduate application, though they can be important for funding. This is exactly the opposite of a professional school application, where they are by far the most important factors. Odds are, once you get to a certain level (say, 3.0 overall and 3.3+ in one’s major), your GPA really isn’t that important. </p>
<p>A successful application is more likely to have these:</p>
<ul>
<li>Well defined research interests that mesh well with those of the faculty at that school</li>
<li>A strong research background</li>
<li>Glowing letters of recommendation from experts in the field</li>
<li>Strong preparation in the field (including all necessary languages, if relevant)</li>
</ul>
<p>I don’t doubt in the slightest that students at top schools have a leg up in the process. Such schools typically have more funding for undergraduate research, have more well-known faculty members, have better advising, etc.</p>