GPA for MS in USA is one of the most important criteria evaluated by admissions officials when granting admission to prospective students. GPA is calculated on a scale of 4 in the United States, and most universities in the United States demand a minimum GPA of 3 on a scale of 4 for admission to their graduate programs.
Several universities have adopted holistic approach of admissions in MS in USA by lowering their GPA and accepting students with diverse overall profiles. For instance, someone who has achieved a GPA of 3.0 in a bachelor’s in addition to exceptional performance in standardized tests or extracurricular activities is more likely to be considered for admission than a student who has scored a 3.2 GPA or above.
Those looking forward to applying for a master’s degree in the USA, must not be worried there are plenty of universities that accept applications with low GPAs.
How to Calculate GPA for MS in USA
Most of universities around the world including US institutes calculate the GPA on a scale of 4.0. Tabulated below is the list of GPA ranges to help you understand, what is a low GPA and what is considered higher. In terms of percentage, it comes under two ranges i.e 0-59% to 94-100%.
| GPA Range | Percentage | Level |
|---|---|---|
| 1.0-1.6 | 60% to 69% | Very Low |
| 1.7-2.6 | 70% to 79% | Low |
| 2.7-3.6 | 80% to 89% | Good |
| 3.7-4.0 | 90% or higher | High |
As per the education standards of the United States, a GPA that comes under the range of 2.0-3.0 is a low GPA.
Also Check: How to Convert 10 point CGPA to 4 point GPA?
List of Universities that Accept Low GPA for MS in the USA
Below is the list of US universities that accept low GPAs for admission in MS programs.
| University | Minimum GPA Required |
|---|---|
| University of Maine | 2.5 |
| University of Wisconsin-Parkside | 3.0 |
| Oakwood University | 2.99 |
| University of Maryland Eastern Shore | 3.00 |
| Talladega College | 2.0 |
| University of Arkansas at Pine Bluff | 2.75 |
| Arkansas Baptist College | 2.6 |
| Indiana Univerisity Northwest | 3.07 |
| Northwestern Polytechnical University | 3.0 |
| Bethune-Cookman University | 2.75 |
How to Get Accepted Into University With Low GPA
One who scored a low GPA must not be worried as they can still secure admission based on their overall profile or by scoring higher in standardised tests like GRE. Follow the given steps in order to understand how you could be accepted into an MS program with a slightly lower GPA.
- Explain why you achieved low: This can be included in a personal statement, statement of purpose, or during the personal interview. If you wish, write a separate letter explaining the reason for the same.
- Personal statement: Write a strong personal statement defining your goals and how you could contribute to society if accepted by the university.
- Mention subjects with higher/descent scores: Even if your overall score is low, mention the marks of subjects in which you have scored well.
- Higher GRE/GMAT Scores: Achieving higher in GMAT or GRE exam will improve your chances of getting accepted to the university.
- Experience and Achievements: Include any relevant professional experience or internships you have achieved. You can also include documents that could demonstrate your expertise in certain skills. Also Check: Academic Resume
- Certification or other courses: enrolling in a certificate or diploma course will help you demonstrate the skills you learned or developed.
Documents Required for MS in USA
The admission requirement in MS in USA varies from university to university. Students are advised to visit the university’s official website to learn more about the admission requirements. Following are the basic requirements for admission to the MS program in the United States:
- Completed Online Application
- Personal statement
- Academic transcript
- Bachelor’s degree or equivalent
- English language test scores, TOEFL or IELTS
- GMAT/GRE/MCAT test scores
- X & XII mark sheet and certificates
- Reference Letters (if applicable)
- Copy of Passport
- Resume
- Research Proposal or Project work
Getting admitted into an MS in the United States are not as difficult as it may seem. Even with a low GPA, the candidate must have a strong profile with higher standardised scores, skills, extracurricular activities, and work experience. The candidate can also go for a pathway program in the university they are willing to get admitted into. The pathway program allows students to learn certain skills and achieve qualifications that may be required to enter the program of their choice.
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