What Are My Chances of Admission?

[TheGoldenBelle]

I want to pursue a PhD in History and am applying this month for the Fall of 2017. 

My Application:

Strengths:

• Writing Sample
• LORs
• SOP

Uncertain parts:

• GPA [3.18 cumulative, 3.48 at current institution (I was a transfer and screwed up on some Psych courses, which was my major at the time, during freshman year), and a 3.900 in History]
• GRE (I take it on Tuesday so don't yet have my scores. I'm anticipating good marks on the Verbal and Writing sections. At least 160 for V and 4.0 for Writing. *knocks on wood*)

Certain Weaknesses:

• No Publications
• No Conferences
• No Advanced Degree
• No Relevant Work Experiences.

What I Hope to Compensate for the Weaknesses:

• Independent Study course relevant to my field which taught me how to present on research, how to do research itself, and the paper resulting from it is my writing sample. 
• Background in French language (relevant for an Africa and African Diaspora historian). 
• Training in archive and work with handling antique documents
• Attended at least 5 seminars (not conferences, I know, but still) on campus led by my History professors
• Participating in the Appalachian Student Research Forum this year (though not officially until after I've already sent my applications out)

Bonus:

• Dean's List 3x in my most recent semesters and on track for 5 semesters by May.
• Member of Phi Alpha Theta: History Honor Society.
• Member of multiple organizations and hold leadership positions in a few.
• Have also done several hours of volunteer work with a few causes. 

Applying to:

• Northwestern University
• University of Wisconsin-Madison
• UNC-Chapel Hill
• The College of William and Mary
• University of Memphis
• Howard University

[Admissions Advice Online]

Hello,

3.18 GPA is very low for direct entry PhD programs. Usually students overcome this by performing substantial research or completing a major thesis project in their area of interest prior to graduation. Have you considered maybe a MA program and then go on to the PhD? - selectiveadmissions.com

 

[NoirFemme]

My advice? Just apply. Focus on what you can control--your writing sample, GRE scores, letters of recommendation, and your statement of purpose.