<p>does anyone know what types of schools are likely to accept a 3.0 for grad school? in other threads people keep saying how the top schools won't accept you but a decent one might...so what kinds of schools does that mean? State schools basically? (and this isn't directed just to my field of study, but in case anyone was wondering its English)</p>
<p>I too would like to know if anyone some knowledge on the subject.</p>
<p>Well, it really depends on your definition of “top school” and your field of study. If you mean Harvard, well, probably not. But if undergrad rankings have any meaning at all, they’re basically useless for graduate study. Top programs are scattered around in different places, often not ones you would expect.</p>
<p>I have applied with my 3.0 to “big-name” programs in my field at several R1 and R2 flagship and land grant research universities (Indiana, Missouri, Idaho, Clemson) along with a well-respected state specialty institution, the SUNY College of Environmental Science and Forestry. After conversations with professors at each of those schools, I fully expect to be admitted with funding to at least one, if not more.</p>
<p>Think about it this way: grad schools look at the totality of your application. If you have a strong improvement trend, a work/research history in the field, solid LoRs/test scores and a standout research proposal… then the not-awesome GPA becomes the only weak point in an otherwise-competitive application. So work to make every other part of your package scream, “my GPA sucks but I can hack grad work.”</p>
<p>For me, that meant taking a year off after my B.S. to work at an AmeriCorps internship, which has given me great references, a work portfolio and a starting point for my research pitch.</p>