Quick question about when to apply

[nbengineer]

Hello Grad Cafe Community!

I just stumbled upon this site so I apologize in advance if I did not post in the correct forum. I'm currently a Computer Engineering major at a state university and will be graduating this upcoming Dec 2016. I will be applying to a few grad programs which include Columbia's CVN program in Industrial Engineering (Masters), and Cornell's Masters in  Systems Engineering. 

My question is, since Columbia's CVN admissions is on a rolling basis, when do you think the best time would be to apply? Going into this semester, I will have a 3.35 GPA. This will be the GPA I will be using to apply when I start applying in October time. However, I'm fairly confident I can increase my GPA to a 3.45-3.48 after the completion of my semester. Would it be smart to apply to the CVN program after my potential GPA increase or I should I apply in the Fall.

I don't think I have much of a choice for Cornell's program, but I really wanted to know the best course of action for my situation. As of now, I have begun my preparation for the GRE and am focused on that, but these questions have been lingering in my mind. I appreciate and feedback or insight from this community. Thank you!

Edited May 27, 2016 by nbengineer

[blc073]

This is an interesting dilemma. Essentially, you would be trading 0.1 GPA points for an early application. My feeling is that you should apply as soon as you can for rolling admissions. Look at is this way: GPA alone will not keep you out of a school, rather it will be your application as a whole. An early application will look more favorable even with a lower GPA. 

In short, do not wait to apply just to raise your GPA from a 3.35 to a 3.48. If a 3.35 is too low, then so is a 3.48. Take an advantage of an early application. 

Good luck! 

[nbengineer]

3 hours ago, blc073 said:

This is an interesting dilemma. Essentially, you would be trading 0.1 GPA points for an early application. My feeling is that you should apply as soon as you can for rolling admissions. Look at is this way: GPA alone will not keep you out of a school, rather it will be your application as a whole. An early application will look more favorable even with a lower GPA. 

In short, do not wait to apply just to raise your GPA from a 3.35 to a 3.48. If a 3.35 is too low, then so is a 3.48. Take an advantage of an early application. 

Good luck! 

Thank you so much. I think I needed that perspective. If GPA is my main concern, it will never be high enough. I'll continue to prep for my GRE and apply as planned during the Fall.