Grad school with low gpa, and course advise

[gpongur]

Hello,

I have a pretty low undergraduate gpa - 2.7. (pretty low, i know) I started out good, but i lost out mainly because of health reasons. However, i've made up for it with my senior year grades which are above 3.0. I'm a chemical engineering major and I research experience with one paper publication. I've also won several awards and grants for my senior year project. What chances do I have of getting into grad school? If i do have a chance, I would like to pursue something related to IT, software, business or computer science. Please guide me on what universities and courses would be good for me to choose. I'm looking for american universities in the east coast.

Edited May 30, 2012 by gpongur

[Gneiss1]

Have you taken your GREs? Also would it be possible for you to take a GRE subject test as well?

Your GPA is low and some universities have minimum requirements for applicants but they may be flexible on them. Having a paper published while in undergrad is certainly noteworthy so that will help. I think your best bet is to be broad in your applications and to realistic schools. Also what is your financial situation like? Are you able/willing to fund your own way (through loans, etc) if need be?

Once you have selected some schools to apply to it is pretty important especially in your case to develop a relationship with the person you want to work with. I wouldn't play the weak hand explaining off your GPA right away as that could come off as an excuse but I'm sure the question would come up eventually. Also if you have some solid references that could attest to your work ethic despite your health issues.

Finally, I see you are applying for spring 2012 which also will reduce the number of schools you can apply to so keep that in mind. Not all universities accept new spring students and if they do they may not offer funding. Not the case for every university, but I have seen quite a few that were that way during my application season.

Score very well on the GREs and have a solid application profile and you can possibly make up for your GPA. Best of luck to you:)

[gpongur]

Thanks so much!

You mentioned that its best if i stick to realistic schools. What would you say are some realistic schools for me at this point? I will be able to fund myself through grad school, so that shouldn't be a problem. I'm looking at computer science or IT programs for non- computer science majors. My GRE score is at 1200 out of 1600 on the old scale. Should I retake it again?