Take MBA programs as an example—many universities consider work experience and leadership roles as equally important (if not more so) than your undergraduate CGPA. So, if you’re a bit worried about your grades, make sure to highlight the real-world experience you bring to the table.
A Real-Life Scenario—What Does This Look Like?
Let’s say you finished your undergraduate degree in Business Administration with a CGPA of 2.7. You’ve been working for a few years, and now you want to go for an MSc in Marketing. With a 2.7, you’re above the 2.5 minimum, so you’ll likely meet the basic CGPA requirement. However, if you’re applying to a highly competitive program, you might want to bolster your application with a strong personal statement, impressive recommendation letters, or even relevant work experience.
If, for some reason, you don’t meet the minimum CGPA and still have your heart set on the program, you could explore taking a PGD in Marketing first. Once you’ve demonstrated that you can perform well academically at the postgraduate level, you can move on to the Master’s degree.
Final Thoughts: It’s All About Strategy
At the end of the day, your CGPA is just one part of the puzzle. Yes, it’s important, but it’s not the be-all and end-all. Nigerian universities generally require a minimum of 2.5 on a 5.0 scale, but the reality is that your application is judged on more than just that number. Work experience, personal statements, entrance exams, and recommendation letters can all play a role in helping you stand out.
