Query regarding GPA Conversion for Indian Applicants

Launched September 22, 2008
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Hi Sir,
I really have to put down this doubt that's been on my mind me for quite sometime.

The Indian system of grading primarily invokes representation of the academic marks in score of 10, while the US GPA equivalent is on a maximum score of 4. I've been told about the WES conversion system which helps us in finding out our US equivalents.

My point is regarding how and what, the US Universities look into while calculating an equivalent for our score. Is it the class rank, class average or the school reputation or the highest GPA obtained by candidates throughout the years in the particular department we are from. In case it is so, how does the Universities generate such a large database given the fact that most of the universities in India do not furnish such details in the transcripts they provide. Just as a representation, how would the GPA of student look in his US Equivalent if his GPA were to stand equal to the class average.( say maybe 7.0 GPA on 10 point basis).

I was hoping on your opinion based on your experience in this matter.

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by Eliot » Fri Jun 27, 2014 12:40 pm
Hi jayaramgokul,

Thank you for your post!

Yes, wes.org is a solid tool for converting to the 4.0 scale. You may also check the application requirements of each program, as some do not wish applicants to convert GPAs. In terms of other factors, class rank and school reputation do factor in. Class rank gives the adcoms a sense of how you excelled relative to your peers. In terms of reputation, for instance, high marks earned at an IIT would be held in higher regard than non-IITs. That said, in general, international institutions are considered rigorous and do not carry the potential stereotype of grade inflation, as some U.S. counterparts may. While there are many factors that can play into the academic aspect of your candidacy, it's also important to note that your GPA is ultimately one data point and you will want to consider the myriad other elements of your profile.

If you have other questions about your candidacy or applications, please contact us directly: https://www.clearadmit.com/services/free-consultation/
Eliot Ingram
Clear Admit, LLC
[email protected]
215 568 2590

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by jayaramgokul » Mon Jun 30, 2014 7:21 pm
Thank you sir for your reply.
Adding to this I wanted to ask a small query ie to say .. Are NITs considered a reputable institute by the top 5 US Universities.. Coz I have heard a lot regarding the reputation that IITs hold among top US Universities... Does a good application plus a NIT brand ever make it to top 5?