<p>I'm a Junior and I just got my AP Chemistry final grade...and it was low so my semester grade is a D+. I'll have a 3.6 +/- .1. My ACT is a 32 so far, next year when I start applying is the low grade going to hurt my chances? (Regardless of other factors on my admission, will the D+ stand out as a big red flag?) My main 3 schools I'm looking at are NYU, Georgetown, and Duke.
Thanks in advance!</p>
<p>bump bump bump</p>
<p>Well, as you know, a D+ doesn't exactly look good. A 32 ACT (w/ possibility of going up) looks great though! Is the 3.6 GPA for the semester or overall? I think you're looking pretty good. Since you're a junior, I'd suggest getting a good grade in AP Chem next semester and see if you can repeat the 1st semster during your 1st semester as a senior. A lot of schools would throw out the D+ if you replace it w/ something stonger...</p>
<p>The 3.6 is cumulative. I don't know about retaking 1st semester of AP CHem, I was planning on taking AP Physics or AP Bio next year.</p>
<p>Honestly, I wouldn't worry about it. It sounds like your other grades are strong...as well as your ACT score. Just work your butt off next semester and do what you can. A great second semester grade <em>could</em> help overlook the D+.</p>
<p>On many college applications there is a space to explain things such as a drop in grades, especially if your previous grades are outstanding. If there isn't a space, you should take the extra time to write a little piece on why you have this one grade. That way, the admissions officers at the schools you apply to will have a valid reason to seeing this.</p>
<p>Thanks, you guys gave some great feedback.</p>
<p>anyone else?</p>