Is it necessary and/or appropriate to explain a drop in GPA on your applications? I'm applying to M.S. programs for Fall 2016 in Geology/Geochemistry. For the first four semesters of undergrad, my GPA fluctuated between a 3.9 and 3.6 average. Then, unfortunately (and sadly not an uncommon occurrence) I was sexually assaulted. This occurred during a summer session, when my GPA dropped dramatically to a 2.9, and for the remainder of my time my per semester GPA was in the 3.0 - 3.2 range. I graduated with a 3.4 overall GPA, and about a 3.2 for my upper junior/senior level courses. My question is, do I offer an explanation on my application, and if so, in how much detail? I want to avoid making empty excuses, but I was extremely distracted during that time and it's reflected in my GPA. Would it be best to provide a vague "personal situation/problem" explanation? Where in the application would this take place? Thank you in advance for any insight or advice!