<p>I am a computer science masters student at an ivy league .
I took 2 really tough courses together and messed up both of them and now i am left with a GPA less than 3.
This is my first year of masters in US, I have worked at a top 20 tech firm for 3 years.
What are my chances of getting a good internship.</p>
<p>Under the minimum GPA, in CS will be difficult. Since you’re at an Ivy, it may help you a little, but, you will be competing for the same internships that American kids with higher GPAs will seek. GPA and citizenship factors, so far, are not good for any paid internship. </p>
<p>Is there a minimum GPA criteria for all the companies here?
I have a 2.9 right now.</p>
<p>My DD’s company looks at 3.0. My husband’s company requires above 3.0</p>
<p>Oh, and in CS, some companies will hint or ask about a security clearance, so you need to look at employers who aren’t completely funded by the Feds or who deal with cyber-software.</p>
<p>Does it matter if I can explain the reason for low grades i.e. taking tough subjects vs taking easier ones.</p>
<p>No, they don’t typically accept explanations because it is known throughout the industry that this is a tough major. The applications are online and the computer program automatically “selects” the ones that go through to the HR team. This is why you need to know someone inside the company because the employee emails the app to the department chairs.</p>
<p>Hey OP,</p>
<p>I have some anecdotes about friends in a similar situation as you but different industry (EE). Two friends I know had low GPAs that were a little above a 3.0 at best, and maybe a bit below 3.0. Sorry, I don’t know the specifics unfortunately. They told me their GPAs and I just remember they were somewhere in that ballpark. Anyway they both got good offers with well known companies which I’m sure you’ve heard of. The one working at the “worse” company (and by worse I mean less reputable and with a smaller market share but still very well known) got $25/hr internship and I don’t know what the other got. Both were females. I don’t know if that changes things at all. I heard that in a field like EE being a female helps to get an internship but I don’t know whether that’s just a myth or not. Also I think both internships were for the spring semester and not summer so perhaps that changes things somewhat as well since I think spring internships are viewed as less desirable often times and so there’s less competition for those positions. I don’t think any of them knew anyone in the companies nor obtained any sort of advantage over commoners as they applied, they just worked really hard and applied online. Their bad GPAs were a reflection of their coursework not their work ethic. Both were Indians without US citizenship from a state U. Perhaps they are anomalies but I hope that this gives you some hope. Best of luck.</p>
<p>Thank you for your replies.</p>