<p>So I am currently a senior graduating with a degree in Biotechnology. My GPA is currently 2.99, although the last couple of semesters my grades have been much better. My GRE scores on the other hand are quite high, I received a 167 on verbal and a 166 on quantitative on the new scales. My question is what will be more important to graduate schools, I am applying to PhD programs in biomedical science and I am applying to some prestigious and difficult schools to get into such as Emory, Stanford, and Columbia. I was just curious to see if anybody has any insight on what is weighed more and if I have any reasonable chance to get into these programs. I have applied already so this is more out of curiosity then anything else, thanks in advance if anybody has any input.</p>
<p>Do you have research experience?</p>
<p>Yes I am currently working in a lab and have been doing so for the past 7 or so months. I have a decent amount of responsibilities but have no publications or anything. I don’t think it will be sufficient to make me stand out any.</p>
<p>You’re right – 7 months is good, but not enough to stand out. It’s pretty competitive right now, and it almost seems that once you reach “qualified” status, it can be a matter of luck where you get accepted. The low GPA could hurt you, given the level of competition that exists, but it sounds as though it will be over 3.0 by the time you graduate. That you have an upward trend is good, but I don’t know how much programs look at that if they have plenty of candidates with high GPAs to choose from. That’s where the research experience and LORs could potentially help – do you have anyone with clout backing you? I know students in your position who get lab tech jobs before applying, to strengthen their applications. Some even take more advanced classes as non-degree students. At this point, all you can do is try and see what happens. Good luck!</p>
<p>GRE and GPA scores are probably the least important part of your application. This means the admissions office will only care if your scores are abnormally low. Your GPA is low, but a positive trend is great! However, it might be too low for some programs. That said, don’t be deterred from applying to top-notch programs if you are committed to applying this year. Your research experience, personal statement, and letters of recommendations are the most important parts of your application. A great letter of recommendation can be a major help – particularly if he/she is well known within the field. Just make sure to apply to less prestigious programs, as well. Prepare for the worst and hope for the best.</p>