"Explaining" "low" GPA due to ADHD related issues on my Personal Statement for MSc application
I'm currently in my final year of bachelor's in Econ, and I'm applying to various MSc programs all across EU and UK.
I will end up with an okay ≈5/6 ≈3.5/4.0 in my final year.
On my Personal statements addressed to various unis, in addition to what people usually mention in Personal Statements, I'm thinking of mentioning an explanation (not an excuse) as to why my GPA may be lower than expected.
I want to mention that the diagnosis occurred only recently during my bachelor's degree, and that with treatment and better studying techniques, I was able to gradually improve my GPA over the years, and score better in advanced courses (which required a better and deeper understanding) than in intro and elementary courses.
I'm also aiming for a 330+ on the GRE, which indicates that I have a decently strong quant and verbal base, and that I'm determined to put in hard work and a lot of effort.
Will this help on my application? I'm not aiming for Oxbridge, or HEC, but for target and semi-targets, would the committee take this into account?
Based on the most helpful WSO content, addressing your ADHD diagnosis and its impact on your GPA in your personal statement can be a strategic move, provided you frame it correctly. Admissions committees are generally understanding of extenuating circumstances, especially when you demonstrate growth, resilience, and a clear upward trajectory in your academic performance.
Here’s how to approach it effectively:
Focus on Growth and Improvement: Highlight how your diagnosis and subsequent treatment allowed you to develop better study habits and time management skills, leading to improved performance in advanced courses. This shows that you’ve overcome challenges and are capable of excelling in a rigorous academic environment.
Quantify Your Progress: Mention specific improvements, such as better grades in advanced courses or a significant upward trend in your GPA. This provides concrete evidence of your ability to adapt and succeed.
Emphasize Your Strengths: Pair your explanation with achievements that demonstrate your academic potential, such as your strong GRE score (330+), which reflects your quantitative and verbal abilities. This reinforces your commitment to hard work and academic excellence.
Keep It Concise and Positive: Avoid dwelling on the challenges or presenting your ADHD as an excuse. Instead, frame it as a learning experience that has prepared you to tackle future challenges effectively.
Tailor to the Program: Connect your story to the skills and qualities valued by the MSc programs you’re applying to. For example, resilience, adaptability, and a strong work ethic are traits that align well with the demands of graduate studies.
Admissions committees at target and semi-target schools are likely to take this into account, especially if your overall application demonstrates strong potential. By presenting your story as one of growth and determination, you can turn a potential weakness into a compelling narrative that strengthens your application.
Sources: How I went from non target 2.3 gpa to 7 figure buy side seat, Is ADHD a fine explanation for low GPA, https://www.wallstreetoasis.com/forum/investment-banking/low-gpa-but-have-experience-in-the-field-what-do-i-do?customgpt=1, https://www.wallstreetoasis.com/forum/investment-banking/falsely-accused-of-sa-and-need-advice-on-how-to-move-forward-with?customgpt=1
Yes mention it. You don’t need to tell them that advanced modules are harder than entry level ones though, just discuss how diagnosis disrupted you early on which has brought down overall grade
I don't think 3.5 is that low and I say that as a dude who had a 4.0. I likely have ADHD, to the point where my whole life people I've met have randomly asked me if I had ADHD within a few minutes of meeting me but have never needed any meds to do well in school.
ADHD is a weak excuse. I promise you 50% of Americans could go get tested and would probably be diagnosed with some form of ADD/ADHD. I always see people/friends excuse their poor grades on their ADD/ADHD despite it not really having a real impact on them.
Yeah but what if there was a tangible considerable improvement after diagnosis, and after subsequent treatment?
I think that is still worth mentioning!
Please don't comment on an illness you know nothing about, like an expert. ADHD is a spectrum; people are affected by it at different levels. Yes, many people could be diagnosed, but it would be mild. For some people, it's debilitating. It's the same as autism, many people can get diagnosed, but as I'm sure you've encountered, people have it at varying degrees. Some people have depression and can function, others can't even shower/get out of bed.
My ADHD made it so I couldn't pay attention to a lecture for more than 15 seconds without going on Reddit and zoning out for the rest of class. Constantly got low grades on the "participation" portion of humanity classes and simply aced all the tests to overcome it. Couldn't learn a single thing in class over 4 years and still got a 4.0. My ADHD is so obvious people ask me about if I have it when the meet me. I'm sure 1/million people have it worse but not many. If I could pull of a 4.0 at an ivy known for grade deflation and a strict curve, there is no excuse.
All the people I've met that have blamed their ADHD for their poor grades made me laugh because I would see their work habits and know that their supposed ADHD wasn't the reason - they were just lazy fucks. On the other hand, I actually have/had ADHD that had an impact on my ability to learn.
You're being offended on MY behalf, so kindly fuck off - I don't need you to speak for me.
right, but if you just say my gpa was 3.5 because of ADHD, it doesn't say anything about severity of ADHD. I'd bet that a lot of people would cringe from hearing that. it's better not to make execuses, especially because 3.5 is a decent GPA.
The ADHD excuse has always been incredibly weak to me. When an MD has a tight deadline, is he gonna give you "extra time" to get the deliverable in because you have ADHD? Absolutely not.
Everyone that makes this excuse has to grow up imo. Playing the idiotic education system that let's you get away with this type of BS is one thing, but genuinely thinking it's a legitimate disability in this type of career path is bafflingly stupid to me
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