<p>IU will definitely consider your ACT or SAT scores. As you already know your scores and GPA are below the 25 %ile for IU admits. Not much you can do about the GPA now, but if your schedule permits I would STRONGLY encourage to study for the ACT or SAT independently and retake one of the tests. Study materials can be found in libraries or perhaps used on Amazon for a decent price. Your combination of scores and GPA would probably lead to a rejection IF you were still in HS. It might be slightly easier for you with your military background, etc. </p>
<p>Don’t worry about references. IU doesn’t use them. If in some way it would help, one of your NG instructors could be used for this purpose. You will need to have a high school transcript sent and probably a counselor signature form completed. I would recommend contacting the guidance department of your old HS. If your guidance counselor is no longer there, any counselor can sign it since you’re not a traditional freshman (you’ve been out of school for a year). They keep your records around for awhile. </p>
<p>IU does not require an essay, but there is an optional one on the application. USE IT! Don’t make excuses, but factually explain the interruption that lead to the grade decline. Explain what you have been doing since HS graduation. </p>
<p>IU does have several programs for first generation students, but I’m not sure if you would be eligible since you are no longer in HS. You might want to research the “Groups” program a bit. </p>
<p>Give the admissions office a call. Explain your military service, etc. They may recommend a way for this to happen. You might also contact the IUB ROTC office. See what advice they have for you. </p>
<p>Another thought, if it’s possible with your scholarship, is to begin your studies at one of the regional campuses with the goal of transferring to IUB in a year or two. The regional campuses are designed to admit students like you. </p>
<p>A final bit of advice: if you really want this, be willing to work for it. Don’t set up barriers for yourself and don’t make excuses about something being problematic.</p>