Need advice for low GPA- MA

[HKG2017]

I graduated from a public university in 2015 and have a low undergrad GPA- 2.97 with poor performance in my last two years. I have a legitimate reason for my poor performance and can possibly get a letter from the dean of students defending that. Im not sure if that is appropriate or necessary? I have studied abroad twice with great academic performance on both trips. I have had internships and work experience in DC and am currently volunteering with the Colombian Ministry of Education teaching English; I can speak Spanish on an intermediate level. Both my study abroad and DC work experience has led to some great LOR's. I am taking the GRE in December and am hoping to get a high score. 

I want to apply to International Affairs programs at American, Pittsburgh, and possibly GW. My questions are- do I have a shot with a good GRE score? Is it appropriate or necessary to try and obtain a letter from the dean of students explaining my poor undergrad performance to attach to my applications? Finally got the courage to post my questions! Any advice would be greatly appreciated- kind of freaking out!

Edited November 7, 2016 by HKG2017

[Warelin]

There are a few things we can gather from the websites but it's generally best to e-mail specific programs if you qualify based on your GPA. I've never heard of a program that would forgive a low gpa due to a high GRE. Oftentimes they are used at 2 different points to filter out applications.

From Pittsburgh:
" Approximately 20% of GSPIA students enter graduate school immediately after receiving their bachelor’s degrees. 80% have some full-time, post-baccalaureate work experience. The average age is 26 ½."

" Q:    Does GSPIA have a minimum undergraduate GPA?

A:    Undergraduate transcripts are an important factor in the admissions decision, but they are not the only factor. Typically, to be competitive for admission, students should have at least a 3.2 overall average. To be competitive for merit scholarships, applicants normally need at least a 3.5. The admissions committee also takes into consideration GPA within the major, GPA within the last two years, extenuating circumstances, length of time since graduating from college, rigor of the undergraduate program, and other factors.

    Because GSPIA’s admissions process is holistic, applicants with weaker GPAs can be considered for admission if they have exceptionally strong credentials in other areas, such as work experience. "

From American:
" Students pursuing a PhD degree at SIS must hold at least a bachelor's degree or its equivalent before entering the program. Applicants should normally have a cumulative grade-point average that is substantially above a B (i.e., above 3.00 on a 4.00 scale, or equivalent if educated outside the US) in any previous undergraduate and graduate study, preferably in a field relevant to international relations. "

This may not necessarily be the most comfortable thing to do, but I'd recommend mailing the schools and asking if they'd consider applicants under a 3.0. A lot of times, programs may not answer. A lot of times these requirements are set by the Graduate College and not the program. There have been a number of times that the program has liked an applicant but been unable to get the Grad School's support due to not meeting the requirements; othertimes the applicants is just cut during the first round without any review.