How difficult has it been for you?

[Madeleina]

I'm planning on applying to grad schools next year to obtain my MA in religious studies. Unfortunately I have to overcome a dreadful GPA (3.02 with a study abroad semester of 3.92) and have yet to take the GRE yet. How difficult have you guys found getting into top-notch programs? I mean, Duke (graduate not divinity), Columbia, UPenn, and the like? The acceptance stats scare me.

I'm also considering going abroad to study, most likely in the UK. Do you have any suggestions for excellent programs there?

Sorry for the ignorance. I'm three-days-new into this whole process.

[samsarictraveler]

MA acceptance rates arn't as scary as PhD acceptance rates. Even the best programs accept about half of their applicants (in Religious Studies!) And if you learn anything on this site, its that mere numbers are not the most important part of you package. a 3.0 GPA is quite low it seems for people who apply to top program, but if your major GPA is much higher (perhaps because you took lots of engineering courses) then you could be a strong applicant. What really matters are your recs and your Statement of Purpose (SOP).

In general, getting into a top program in any field is tough, however...

[Philmajor]

I completely agree with Samsarictraveler. Your GPA is somewhat low but not necessarily too low depending on the reason. You definately need an SOP that will catch the eye of someone and decent GRE scores. Your letters are also important though mine were from a state school in Mass. Getting accepted into an MA program isn't as difficult as the PhD programs but getting into a strong program that will enhance your chances of being accepted into a strong PhD program is crazy hard. Good luck!

[LunaSea]

You also have the right idea in looking at British schools as well. As an undergrad, my professor told me that some of the finer institutions in the UK may admit me more easily than a school of equal prestige in the US. Many universities over there are in need of more funding, and more international students mean more full-price tuition payers.