High Vs Low CGPA in Scholarship and Admission Applications

2.5 x 3 is NOT equal to 2 x 3.5. The fact that someone landed a full scholarship with a low CGPA but with a great SOP does not mean that you, who achieved a high CGPA will land a scholarship with a poor SOP.

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As a matter of fact, you have to look beyond your CGPA, (wether low or extremely high), to prepare a competitive, award-winning application. Below is a list of the criteria used to evaluate scholarship/admission applications.

1. CGPA: The evaluation weight given to CGPA

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varies with scholarships. Some scholarships state what they want, some do not. My advice: if you had a good one, cool. If not, you may pursue a higher degree (locally) to make up for the first low CGPA, e.g. Postgraduate Diploma or Masters. For some scholarships (Chevening),

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your work experience and/or impacts could help mask low CGPA. 1 thing is certain, majority of scholarships want students with a good CGPA. So if you still have the chance, endeavour to make a good one. Do so intentionally.

2. Personal Statement/SOP: This is undoubtedly the

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most critical aspect of your application. I have seen many scholarship hopefuls request for scholars’ SOPs with the hope of copying or using their style 100%. With this, your SOP will lack originality, creativity and uniqueness. Your SOP is an opportunity for you to

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