GPA Inquiry

[sladjieaafnaledjalijwrf]

Hi I plan to apply to history Ph.D. programs this fall, and I have a few questions related to the GPA requirements.

1. Currently my major GPA is 3.85 and I am concerned if this grade is too low for me to apply to the tier 1 programs.

2.Will my grades next semester (the semester in which I will be applying) matter during the application process?

Thank you for your help!

[TMP]

please use the search function "low GPA" to find answers such as this thread:

This forum has been in existence for more than a decade now so nearly every question has been asked and answered...

In short: No, your GPA is fine. Focus on your personal statement.

[fordlandia]

1 hour ago, sladjieaafnaledjalijwrf said:

Hi I plan to apply to history Ph.D. programs this fall, and I have a few questions related to the GPA requirements.

1. Currently my major GPA is 3.85 and I am concerned if this grade is too low for me to apply to the tier 1 programs.

2.Will my grades next semester (the semester in which I will be applying) matter during the application process?

Thank you for your help!

The forum suggested by @TMP is an excellent resource.

As for your question about GPA, your grades are typically not more important than your personal statement, writing sample, and letters of recommendation. Truthfully, graduate programs are looking for your ability to thoughtfully engage with your subject's historiography and to convincingly write research papers. An applicant with a 3.5 GPA for example, whose writing sample is compelling and offers a series of prospective research questions built upon that research, is much more likely to get into elite programs than an applicant with a 3.9 GPA, who simply regurgitates preexisting theses and who fails to propose interesting research questions. In short, while GPA is an important factor, I would recommend spend your remaining time in school bolstering your writing sample, building relationships with professors who can speak to your intellect, and coming up with a list of questions you are interested in exploring furthering. ?

[sladjieaafnaledjalijwrf]

3 hours ago, fordlandia said:

The forum suggested by @TMP is an excellent resource.

As for your question about GPA, your grades are typically not more important than your personal statement, writing sample, and letters of recommendation. Truthfully, graduate programs are looking for your ability to thoughtfully engage with your subject's historiography and to convincingly write research papers. An applicant with a 3.5 GPA for example, whose writing sample is compelling and offers a series of prospective research questions built upon that research, is much more likely to get into elite programs than an applicant with a 3.9 GPA, who simply regurgitates preexisting theses and who fails to propose interesting research questions. In short, while GPA is an important factor, I would recommend spend your remaining time in school bolstering your writing sample, building relationships with professors who can speak to your intellect, and coming up with a list of questions you are interested in exploring furthering. ?

Thank you so much!