GPA inclusion in application?

Hi there,

Q: Should I put in my GPA or leave it empty? 

Given the GPA you reported and the fact that it is optional, I would leave it empty – reporting a low GPA can just provide a disadvantage without advantages.

To compensate for a low/not reported GPA, I would recommend looking for a referral, you can find some tips below:

▶ How to Get Referrals for a Consulting Interview

Good luck!

Francesco

Hi there,

I would personally leave GPA out. As Francesco notes, it's really important that you find ways to mitigate this (referrals/networking, other resume highlights, etc.)

Here's some more reading to help: https://www.preplounge.com/en/articles/how-to-get-a-consulting-internship-tips-and-tricks

Hi there,

First let's think about why firms ask for GPA/academic scores. From a consulting firm POV, GPA is a good proxy for your intellectual horsepower → i.e. whether you would have what it takes intellectually to solve problems and perform on the job. 

In your situation, given it is optional, I would leave it out for now. 

The ideal situation is thus to have ‘countered’ this low GPA. Networking to get an interview is often the most effective and direct, but in addition to what the other coaches have mentioned you could also consider taking other qualifications that show you have the intellectual horsepower (e.g. if you get a 780 on a GMAT).

All the best!

Hi there

In this specific case, would state the Master's grades (most recent + decent), not mention Bachechelor grades - but would not omit completely, as it may leave the impression you're trying to hide your grades, which have particular relevance in most European countries.

Hope this helps.

Regards, Andi 

Hi there, 

If the GPA is low, then don't mention it. 

There's no point shooting yourself in the foot. 

Other things you could put the spotlight on:

1. Highligh a course / program / something that you performed specifically good in. For instance, you didn't get a good grade in your degree, but you got a distinction in the ‘Politics of the Middle East’ course. Put that on the CV instead
2. Talk about other achievements within your academic time that either show leadership, or initiative, or an entrepreneurial spirit, or creativity, or teamwork.
3. Mention anyhting else that would show that even within a certain part of your academic time you had a distinctive performance relative to the rest of the cohort.

Aside from this, make sure that you apply broadly. Here is a guide that you can use to design an application strategy:

• Free Guide: Build A Winning Application Strategy

Best,
Cristian