Do schools give you a chance to explain your application?

[Muscles00GT]

Advertisement - Members don't see this ad

Just wondering if there is a section on most applications to discuss some reason for poor performance in a certain area? I'm not one to make up excuses, but I've ran into some medical issues with my family most of my undergrad career which consequently, hurt some of my grades. With that said, is there an extra section where you can just explain some things? Thanks

 

[Coach Hoski]

That would be an interview. Some schools don't have them though, which I think is a crock. How can you judge a person's interpersonal skills without talking to them?
In my experience applying (second round this year) the best thing to do is call whatever contact the school provides and see how much you can get out of them. Ask if you can speak to someone on the admissions counsel rather than an office jockey. Get whatever advice you can and give them the best explanation possible. Lastly, I've been told to write an additional essay explaining low GPA to the schools whose minimums I was near.
It's always good to be proactive. Calling an admissions counselor is like forcing an impromptu interview even if they don't grant you a formal one. Even in the worst case scenario, they just won't give you a whole lot of help but you're no worse than when you started.
Best of luck.

 

[callmecrazy]

If you are applying to schools via PTCAS, there is actually a yes/no question that asks, "Does your academic record accurately reflect your capabilities?" If you answer no, then you then have 1000 characters to answer, "If no, describe why it does not. Present any information that may assist the admissions committee in interpreting and evaluating your academic history or credentials. "

That seems the perfect place to explain your situation.

 

[Muscles00GT]

Thank you both very much for your answers. That helps out a lot and is very reassuring to hear. Once again, thanks for the advice!😎