3.8 to 3.74 at App time - Big Deal? Forum

[angiej]

I work full-time and take a full-time course load (including summers). This summer semester I have slacked off on my classes to focus on the lsat (god I hope it paid off). Anyway, I think I've had "maybe" 2 B's on my entire transcript. I'm currently getting B's in Spanish and Chem and the semester ends in 2 weeks so I don't see much hope. This will likely be the most recent grades law school adcomms see since I want to apply in October (before Fall semester grades will post). Assuming I do get the B's, my GPA will fall to 3.74. Is this a big deal? Will law schools think I'm starting to spiral downward?

[thecilent]

I don't think they are going to care so much about the downward trend (you can't even really call two Bs a downward trend), but it does kinda suck that your GPA will be lower. So I guess it's a big deal if you're going to be applying to the top schools..

[angiej]

I think the highest ranked school I'm considering is IU-B. I need the in-state tuition - and no way will my lsat be high enough to even consider ND. I suppose I could update my transcripts if schools are still reviewing my file after fall grades are in. I'm taking mostly poli sci (my major) classes in the fall so I should be okay. It just seems like a big black mar on my transcript. Ugh.

[thecilent]

I really don't think it will make a difference. I mean either way, you were above median and below 75%, and like I said, they are not going to think you are spiraling downward. It probably will all come down to your lsat. But yeah, I'd def apply early and update transcripts after your next semester. Good luck!

[angiej]

Thanks!

[MoS]

How do you have only a 3.8 with only two B's does your school do pluses and minuses?

[angiej]

Yep, they assign A+'s and I have most A-'s. Though this past spring semester I got 4 A+'s and an A.