UG Record

[brent09]

How detrimental is a poor undergraduate GPA for an applying? I attended a top-10 undergraduate institution, slacked off for a few years, and came out with a 3.3 GPA. My final year was better (~3.6) but still not stellar. GREs are solid (700+, 5.5).

I'm currently in a top-50 program PhD and doing well (4.0). Quantitative classes have gone well, research record is good, working on a couple of co-authored pubs. Unfortunately the program just is not a great fit.

Assuming I applied across a range of schools (a few in the top-10, top-25, top-40) that would fit my interests better, how detrimental would by UG GPA be? And should I take a MS from my current program, or should I 'transfer' without the degree? (I would be looking to transfer in the fall of my 2nd year, matriculate after I completed my 2nd year).

Thanks in advance!

[Penelope Higgins]

Once you have grad coursework on your record, undergrad GPA becomes MUCH less important. This is particularly true if you can get some new letters from faculty at your current grad program. As for the timing of the transfer, nearly every department that takes you will require you to complete their coursework, and all will require you to pass their qualifying exams, so while you might get a degree from your current institution, it won't make a difference in the institution you will be entering.

How detrimental is a poor undergraduate GPA for an applying? I attended a top-10 undergraduate institution, slacked off for a few years, and came out with a 3.3 GPA. My final year was better (~3.6) but still not stellar. GREs are solid (700+, 5.5).

I'm currently in a top-50 program PhD and doing well (4.0). Quantitative classes have gone well, research record is good, working on a couple of co-authored pubs. Unfortunately the program just is not a great fit.

Assuming I applied across a range of schools (a few in the top-10, top-25, top-40) that would fit my interests better, how detrimental would by UG GPA be? And should I take a MS from my current program, or should I 'transfer' without the degree? (I would be looking to transfer in the fall of my 2nd year, matriculate after I completed my 2nd year).

Thanks in advance!

[brent09]

Thanks for the advice! I appreciate it.

[catchermiscount]

I had a similar experience and managed to transfer out. If you (or anybody else in a similar position) would like to discuss, feel free to PM me.