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i have poor ungrad GPA (2 of 4), and good grad GPA (3.88 of 4)

What are my chances if I apply for PhD study at Germany?

B.Sc pure mathematics
M.Sc financial mathematics (i love it)

Àmìn Kàzèmì
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  • If you have good graduate program GPA, it is not a problem. I mean, if you are better in a higher level of study, that shows that you could fit as a PhD student ^^ – Gautier C Jun 17 '16 at 07:34
  • Graduate GPA matters a lot more. However, 2 of 4 is a very poor undergraduate performance and may at least raise a question. You need to have a good explanation of why you did not perform up to your potential in undergrad. –  Jun 17 '16 at 07:37
  • @dan1111 I suppose it is american GPA ? In France, undergraduate notation doesn't really matter, you are not even supposed to give it ^^ (for a PhD admission) – Gautier C Jun 17 '16 at 07:40
  • Why do you want a PhD, rather than a job in finance? You say you love financial math and a masters should be good enough preparation to get a good job. – Noah Snyder Jun 17 '16 at 08:00
  • @NoahSnyder to learn more and research – Àmìn Kàzèmì Jun 17 '16 at 08:02
  • (Note: I have flagged this as a possible duplicate even though the linked question is about the US because I believe the information in the linked question may still be useful) – jakebeal Jun 17 '16 at 11:36

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I recently applied for a PhD Position in Germany (and got it) with a very good M.Sc. but a much worse B.Sc. My professor did ask about my bad grades in the B.Sc., but in the end being honest and saying I was lazy, but feel more fit in the area then my grades might tell. This is in engineering. In the end my grades didn't matter too much, because my professor knew me from my master's thesis already.

That being said, with a very good grad GPA you will probably have good chances to at least be invited to an interview. At that point your grades don't matter that much, because you can tell them about your skilsl yourself and explain your undergrad GPA if you must. I think many people here in Germany are less focussed on the actual grades than on the person and how they sell themselves. I am not saying grades don't matter, they are certainly looked at, but if you overcame the first hurdle, it is up to you to close the deal.

TL;DR: There is a chance. But you can only know for sure if you apply!

Ian
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