Gandalf

Thanks for the replies. I currently attend UT Austin, which I believe is considered to be one among top 10 schools for CS. So I think in my case there is no difference between a 3.9 and 4.0.

Thanks a lot all! Your replies did help me a lot. Actually, I wanted to take a shot at MIT EECS, and heard from someone that they prefer only toppers. Anyways I am convinced that publications in top tier conferences, recommendations and statement of purpose are far more important than a perfect GPA.

I am wondering if some schools differentiate between perfect (4.0/4.0) and near perfect graduate GPA (3.9/4.0). I am applying to graduate schools for my PhD next year, and my masters GPA till now is 4.0 (UG GPA is 3.7). However, I guess this semester I will be getting an A- or B because of a conference deadline (screwed up my test). I know GPA is not as important as research publications, but just wanted to know if 4.0 makes any difference.

Just saw a lot of "waitlist" status on UCSD Computer science applications on the results page, so I'm just wondering if any of you who are wait listed can share your profile... I really thought I would get an admit, but got turned down. My profile: UG GPA: 3.7, MS from top 10 school in US, GPA: 4.0, GRE 1350, 1 ACM publication.