Should I apply to a MSW/PhD with an addendum if they want a 3.5 or higher GPA?

[Anonymous]

I’m interested in applying to a masters/PhD track program, no GRE required,
BUT they want at least a 3.5. I graduated with a 3.1. I do have research experience. I also took research courses and I presented at a research forum. The reason for my Gpa not being as high was due to a undiagnosed disability. I had to repeat a few classes due to this. It wasn’t until my senior year that I was evaluated and received appropriate intervention. After I received intervention for my learning disability, I received all As. Should I still apply to the program and add an addendum and state this in my statement ? There is a transcript record showing my academic improvement once I was diagnosed and received helped. The advisor from the program said I can apply due to my research experience but I need at least a 3.5 or higher. I know academically I am capable.

[Anonymous]

Yes, apply with explanation. Add a doctors note too or an official diagnosis with date and show your grades imlroved lost diagnosis.
Good luck to you!

[Anonymous]

Improved post diagnosis

[Anonymous]

I would still apply, but they may have a flat cut-off. I would put the addendum where you list GPA before and after diagnosis. I wouldn't include the doctor's notice, but I would just put diagnostic history available on request. Also, list GPA in major if it is higher. But there is a chance that the system will kick you out without review if they have GPA coded into it. This is more likely to happen in professional schools (law, medicine) but sometimes they use the same software.

[Anonymous]

Is the GPA cut-off for the program itself or just to avoid taking the GREs? If the latter, they might reasonably want to see your performance on the GREs as evidence that you can do better than your gpa reflects.

Also, you can get an MSW and PhD separately. There are many, many MSW programs that don't have minimum gpa requirements.