As nice as it would be to get straight A’s all the time, some of us have more trouble than others achieving such a feat. It might be because you’re better at 
other subjects, or that you have trouble paying attention in class.
When college application time rolls around, getting decent grades becomes more important than ever. When you have less-than-stellar grades, what can you do? The following suggestions might better your chances of getting admitted into college. Be mindful that many colleges are quite strict about their admissions process. That said, other schools might give you an opportunity if you intend to turn things around academically.
Obtain Strong Grades in the Subjects You Excel At
Not all of us are equally adept at science, English, mathematics, foreign languages, or social studies. Nonetheless, if some subject interests you, ensure your grades are high in the class you learn it in. Endeavor to at least pass the remaining classes. For instance, if you intend on majoring in English Literature, your English grades will be what the Admissions faculty focuses on more than any other of your classes.
Send Influential Recommendations
Powerful recommendations from various leaders and teachers can enhance an application. Speak with your recommenders about any relevant weaknesses and reveal how you’ve handled them, so these influential people can back up your claims. Just don’t send out a standard template letter as the Admissions officers can weed out the ones that hold promise.
With regards to requirements, being accepted into a “reach” school may be troublesome. However, Admissions officers understand that flawless scores and good students are two different things. The student who overcomes adversity is the one that will experience success in life, starting with college.
If the student’s transcript is in shambles without any signs of improvement, then the application is dead in the water. If the student has a poor work ethic or lacks self-discipline, their chances of college enrollment are slim to none. However, if the student is willing to put the work into changing, then maybe a college will give them an opportunity.
Attempt to Improve
Maybe the high school transition was difficult, or perhaps your focus was impacted by relocating to a new school. The Admissions team will be looking for an improvement trend. Does your transcript imply that you made attempts to better your grades after an initial hiccup? In doing so, it will show that you overcame obstacles and took initiative to do it. This will help you not only in post-secondary school, but also in your overall life. However, if you began with decent grades and they declined as the semester progressed, you won’t be as favored. If your grades show a rise after a dip, it shows that you’re trying to learn. A continuous decline implies that you’re not someone who takes their education seriously, and such a judgment could inhibit you from college entry.
Confront Your Weaknesses
A great way to show that you are capable of change is to face your weaknesses head-on. If mathematics isn’t your strong suit, take a course, learn from your mistakes, and get better at it. If you’re not so good at science, do some volunteer work at a science-related facility or group. Show that you’re attempting to understand things outside of your regular institution.
Address This in the Essay or Interview
With regards to any transcript problems, explain everything in the essay or interview. If they aren’t acknowledged, your competence will be judged without your input. Perhaps a family emergency, health concern, or other personal matter affected your priorities. Maybe was a problem transitioning from your old school to your new one. Be upfront and honest – the admissions team have ways of verifying everything you claim. Discuss the steps you took to overcome your obstacles and how you were committed to turning things in your favor. Say it from the heart, because if you’re saying these things rehearsed or disingenuous in any way, it’ll do you more harm than good.