Aim to make the Dean's list with your improved GPA.
Raising your grade point average (GPA) is important for scholarships, applying to graduate school or getting a good job. According to AchieverPoint.com, you will need a GPA of 3.0 to 3.3 to be accepted into master's programs, while doctoral studies require a 3.3 to 3.5 GPA. As well as the external affirmation of having a good GPA, it will also give you a personal sense of satisfaction to know you did the best you could. Raising your GPA doesn't happen magically; it requires a plan and action.
Instructions
1. Set a manageable target GPA. If you currently have a 2.2 GPA, aiming for a 4.0 is
unrealistic. Set your goal for a more achievable 2.7, and work your way up to 3.0 for the following term.
2. Establish a daily study schedule. Block out time you need to study everyday and don't be distracted by television or other background noise. Stay focused and concentrate on your reading and assignments.
3. Go to classes. Too often students skip classes to visit with their friends or watch a sporting event. Don't allow yourself miss class for any reason, as this is a primary cause for a low GPA.
4. Set up a study group. Find other students like yourself who are serious about their GPAs. Arrange to meet twice a week to share study tips and to offer each other support.
5. Take care of your health. Get enough sleep, exercise regularly and eat well. Avoid junk food, such as chocolate bars and chips. While these foods will give you an initial energy hit, it eventually drops and will leave you feeling tired and sluggish.
6. Take copious notes and review often. AcademicTips.com warns that people forget most of the information they learn within the first 20 to 60 minutes. Quickly review your notes after class and then again during your daily work time.
7. Sit in the front of the class and ask relevant questions to demonstrate you are paying attention. Teachers can gauge how serious students are by where they sit. Those who want to learn are in the front of the class; those who sit in the back row may as well not attend.
8. Get to know your teachers. Stopping to chat for a few minutes after class or making a comment on how you found the lessons helpful is something instructors remember when they are marking your exams.
9. Monitor your grades as you go along. Instead of waiting until the end of the term to calculate your GPA, keep track of the small assignments and quizzes as the term progresses.
10. Promise yourself a reward for reaching you target GPA. Your goal for getting a GPA of 3.5 could be to buy yourself a new computer. Tape a photograph of the computer you want over your desk and look at it often to remind yourself of your target GPA.
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