How can I improve my chances of getting into UC Berkeley if my GPA is on the lower side?

There’s no sugarcoating it: UC Berkeley is very competitive, and the middle 50% GPA for admitted students is much higher than a 3.4. That said, admissions are holistic, which means your GPA is only one piece of the puzzle. You can strengthen other areas of your application to make yourself stand out.

Course rigor matters. If you’ve been challenging yourself with AP, IB, or honors classes, that context is important. Use the additional comments section of the UC application to explain your course load and any circumstances that may have impacted your grades, such as family responsibilities or unique challenges.

Extracurriculars and leadership also weigh heavily. It’s not just about how many clubs you join, but the depth of your involvement. For example, taking initiative—like leading a project, organizing events, or making a measurable impact in your community—shows leadership and persistence.

Essays are absolutely critical. From my own experience, this is where you can change the game. My grades were good but not at the very top because I went to a magnet school with tough classes, and my SAT score was solid but not perfect. What made the difference for me was my essays. I poured my heart and soul into them, rewriting drafts for weeks. I used them to show resilience, passion, and the real person behind the numbers. Honestly, I 100% believe the reason I got into Berkeley was my essays. They didn’t just get me admitted—they changed my life for the better in ways I can’t even describe. If you put that extra time into your essays, it can make or break your application. This is something I can help with—I’ve carried those same writing skills into my current job in venture capital, where I use them every day.

Think about the bigger picture too. If Berkeley is truly your dream school, remember that transfer is also a pathway. Many students do two years at a community college or another UC, keep their GPA high, and then transfer into Berkeley. That route requires strong academics, but it’s a proven way in.

So, while your GPA might be on the lower side compared to the average, focus on the areas you can control: essays, extracurricular impact, and finishing strong in your current classes. Berkeley is a reach for almost everyone, but it’s worth trying if it’s your dream.

If you want to chat more about essays, let me know—I’d be happy to help you make yours as strong as possible.