How to Get Into Grad School With a Low GPA

You might think a low undergrad GPA disqualifies you from grad school, but your chances are probably better than expected. While many grad programs list specific GPA requirements on their admission pages, you can often pursue different pathways to acceptance.

Other application components, such as work experience and test scores, can often compensate for a low GPA.

This guide offers an overview of how to best prepare for applying to master's programs with a low GPA.

Will Graduate Schools Accept a Low GPA?

While a high GPA shows that you're likely to perform well in grad school, this isn't the only way to demonstrate your dedication to potential programs. Many grad schools take a more holistic view of applications, considering other factors alongside your undergraduate grades.

In some cases, schools may offer conditional acceptance, which lets you enroll in a program even if you don't meet GPA requirements. Once you enroll, you must maintain a high GPA (typically 3.0 or higher) to stay in the program.

What's Considered a Low GPA?

Many grad programs call for a minimum 3.0 undergraduate GPA. However, some programs may admit you with a 2.5 or even 2.0 GPA. Online graduate programs with low GPA requirements allow you to continue your education even if you didn't do great in undergrad.

It never hurts to talk to a grad program about your GPA. Schools will often work with you if you can show that you're ready for graduate coursework.

Building a Strong Application with a Low GPA

This list highlights some typical components you can expect during your application process. You can show schools you're a serious student, even if your GPA could be better.

1. Take the GRE/GMAT

A high score on a graduate exam like the GRE or GMAT can help you show schools you're ready for graduate-level work, even if you have a low GPA. These tests assess your verbal and quantitative skills, along with writing and critical thinking. Many business programs require the GMAT, while other graduate programs require the GRE.

2. Include a Statement of Purpose

A statement of purpose is your chance to explain to admissions committees exactly why you're interested in a specific graduate program. You can also discuss your professional goals and why you're ready for graduate school now, even if you didn't do great in undergrad.

3. Write Personal Essays

Personal essays focus on your background, interests, or past challenges you've overcome. These essays offer a great opportunity to show grad programs who you are, both as a student and a person. You may also discuss your growth as a learner, which can help offset a low GPA.

4. Speak With the Admissions Office

Consider contacting the admissions office to learn more about their application requirements. Master's programs can often help you through the admissions process, and many schools offer alternative application requirements for students with low GPAs. A quick call or email can help you better understand your options.

5. Incorporate Work Experience

One of the best strategies to enroll in an online master's with a low GPA is to highlight your professional experience. In your application, draw attention away from your undergraduate experience by playing up your work responsibilities and what you've learned on the job. Application committees love to see that you can make connections between your own experience and a program's learning goals. In fact, many programs ask for you to include a resume in your application.

6. Submit Letters of Recommendation

If you have a low GPA, you might want something other than letters of recommendation from former professors. Asking your bosses or other supervisors to write letters for you is perfectly acceptable. A recommendation letter allows your supervisor to discuss your skills and readiness for grad school.

7. Complete Additional Coursework

Consider taking a college course or two, either online or at your local community college. A transcript with recent coursework shows grad schools that you're eager to learn and can succeed as a student. You can also brush up on skills that will serve you in the grad program.

8. Prepare for Your Admissions Interview

Some online graduate programs with low GPA requirements may require you to complete an interview after you apply. This is your chance to show schools you're a serious and professional student. If the interviewers ask about your low GPA, don't make excuses. Instead, explain how you've grown since undergrad and why you're ready for grad school now.

Exploring Nontraditional Routes to Graduate School

The Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) reports that in October 2023, 26% of people with a bachelor's degree were enrolled in school, and in the preceding nine months, 403,000 people aged 20-29 had earned an advanced degree.

These numbers reveal two things — many people are attending graduate school, but not everyone is going right after college.

Bridge Programs

Suppose you meet all the admissions requirements except the course prerequisites. In that case, a bridge program lets you take these courses and move seamlessly into your graduate degree. Bridge programs are relatively common in healthcare and technology fields.

Post-Baccalaureate Programs

Some schools offer postsecondary programs that are not degrees or certificates but can help you improve your GPA or academic standing. These programs generally serve pre-dental or pre-medical students.

Certificate Programs

Graduate certificates are non-degree programs that provide graduate education in a specific field, such as education, nursing, or business. Some schools allow you to start in a certificate program and later transfer your coursework to a master's program of the same subject.

Professional Development Courses

Professional development courses do not provide academic credit but can help you build technical skills. Many schools offer these programs through global online education platforms such as Coursera, edX, Google, or LinkedIn Learning.

Internships and Volunteer Work

Some research shows that students with experience in parenting or the workforce demonstrate greater resilience than those who never left school. Internships or volunteer work experience can strengthen your application and improve your chances for success in graduate school.

Frequently Asked Questions About Grad School With a Low GPA