Low GPA, decent GRE?
Posted: Tue Dec 02, 2014 1:37 am
Undergrad Institution: UC Berkeley
Major(s): Physics
Minor(s): none
GPA in Major: 3.18
Overall GPA: ~3.2
Length of Degree: 4 years
Type of Student: Domestic male
GRE Scores : old version
Q: 800 (92%)
V: 550 (71%)
W: 4.5 (80%)
P: 890 (84%)
Research Experience: 2 years in an astrophysics lab during school. Presented a poster at a conference and got my name on one publication. Worked 2 more years in another astrophysics lab after graduating.
Pertinent Activities or Jobs: Tutored physics at the school tutoring center.
Special Bonus Points: Two of my recommendation letters should be really strong. One of the writers is very well known.
Any Other Info That Shows Up On Your App and Might Matter: GPA doesn't show an upward trend. Dealt with some personal stuff while in school.
What tier of schools should I be aiming for? How much should I factor in my GPA vs GRE? I'm guessing that the top schools like MIT and Harvard are out. I'm leaning towards condensed matter experiment, but would like to go somewhere with a good variety going on so I don't trap myself into a particular area. Where would you guys apply? Advice is appreciated!!
Major(s): Physics
Minor(s): none
GPA in Major: 3.18
Overall GPA: ~3.2
Length of Degree: 4 years
Type of Student: Domestic male
GRE Scores : old version
Q: 800 (92%)
V: 550 (71%)
W: 4.5 (80%)
P: 890 (84%)
Research Experience: 2 years in an astrophysics lab during school. Presented a poster at a conference and got my name on one publication. Worked 2 more years in another astrophysics lab after graduating.
Pertinent Activities or Jobs: Tutored physics at the school tutoring center.
Special Bonus Points: Two of my recommendation letters should be really strong. One of the writers is very well known.
Any Other Info That Shows Up On Your App and Might Matter: GPA doesn't show an upward trend. Dealt with some personal stuff while in school.
What tier of schools should I be aiming for? How much should I factor in my GPA vs GRE? I'm guessing that the top schools like MIT and Harvard are out. I'm leaning towards condensed matter experiment, but would like to go somewhere with a good variety going on so I don't trap myself into a particular area. Where would you guys apply? Advice is appreciated!!