In province chances?

[jero123]

.

[Readyforthis2018]

2 hours ago, jero123 said:

Hi everyone, 

I did my undergrad at McGill and ended up with a cGPA of 3.59 in science, bc I suffered a lot from my second year (3.15 in the 2nd year due to bad studying strategies I guess VS 3.82 in last 2 years). I am now doing my masters in Ontario and will graduate with 2 first author publications in clinical research. I think my ECs are above average. With a cGPA this low, do you think I have a chance as an IP applicant (tho I don't speak french)? Would it help to write an academic explanation letter? Also to the best of my knowledge I don't think McGill considers GPA from non-degree undergrad courses taken after graduation right?

Your opinions will be greatly appreciated. 

Thank you

There’s always a chance! Your graduate degree and upward trend of cGPA would work in your favour in terms of the 10% of overall academic context. You could write a letter of extenuating circumstances if applicable, but I haven’t heard of an academic explanation letter for McGill. Strong CV + Casper would be important to offset the lower cGPA and pull up your overall pre-interview rank. So I’d suggest focusing on those. 

I’m pretty sure they will not consider the courses outside of your degree, but perhaps someone with more experience/information could chime in. Otherwise you could always email McGill in the summer prior to your application. All the best!

[dreamteam22]

3 hours ago, jero123 said:

Hi everyone, 

I did my undergrad at McGill and ended up with a cGPA of 3.59 in science, bc I suffered a lot from my second year (3.15 in the 2nd year due to bad studying strategies I guess VS 3.82 in last 2 years). I am now doing my masters in Ontario and will graduate with 2 first author publications in clinical research. I think my ECs are above average. With a cGPA this low, do you think I have a chance as an IP applicant (tho I don't speak french)? Would it help to write an academic explanation letter? Also to the best of my knowledge I don't think McGill considers GPA from non-degree undergrad courses taken after graduation right?

 Your opinions will be greatly appreciated. 

Thank you

Extenuating circumstances exists in order to explain for any life events that may have impacted your GPA. 

non degree undergrad courses can be considered in the 10% academic context criteria (out of the 70% gpa calculation) which may add richness to your GPA. 

Within the 10%, they look at progression of your grades and that is also factored in. It seems that you have done a great job at increasing your GPA. 

I wouldn't say it is unrealistic to receive an invitation to interview w/ a 3.59 GPA as IP if you have a strong Casper and CV score- from personal experience.