How to Explain a Low GPA to Admissions Counselors

There can be many reasons why a student has a low GPA in high school. So to increase your chances of admission if you fall into this category, here's what you can do:

• Write an outstanding essay that shows the personal and passionate side of you.
• Use a personal statement to describe hardships, such as illness, change in parent's marital status, loss of family income or housing.
• Detail on your application how you responded to these setbacks in a positive way and how you will respond in the future.
• Take responsibility for poor grades, but don't blame the teacher, and don't elaborate when poor grades are consistent.