<p>Where does this come from? We don’t convert grades, we do look at the transcript. We don’t, as moments thinks, look first at gpa. Of course there are schools that admit based on some hierarchical notions. But it’s hard to generalize.</p>
<p>We care about gpa because it is an indicator of motivation. But, as gpa can be manipulated by the course choices, the transcript carries more weight. Of course gpa is in the equation- but as one aspect of the holistic review. The problem that arises is not that adcoms don’t take one seriously if the gpa is lower- but that thousands of kids have higher, plus the rest of the story.</p>
<p>It also matters what the lower grades are in. A STEM kid with a B in English is less at risk than if the B is in math or sci. And, we have already accounted for differences in a hs’s competitiveness or grading scheme.</p>
<p>Duke says they don’t have a minimum gpa. That is common admissions-speak, meant (imo) to encourage. They also say: “Academic performance as measured by grades in academic courses.”</p>