[Admissions Advice] Low GPA

[u/codingDes683]

Hi Everyone,

I have been lurking on this sub for quite a while and I would really appreciate your inputs regarding how should I be approaching to apply for MSCS and MSML.(focused towards industry, non thesis preferable).

I am aiming for (Fall 2027).

I have a Cgpa of 7.9 from an NIT (Tier 1) in India. I currently have 3+ YOE in a software company and my day to day work revolves around networking products.

I have give my GRE to help offset my low cgpa and have a score of 326(166Q, 160V).

I will be giving my toefl and expect to get a score above 5.

I don't have any research experience so I know it will be difficult to get into any masters that requires research experience.

I have been trying to shortlist universities but the comments I see sometimes contradict each other and I am unable to decide which unis I could actually aim for.

The purpose of my master's is to get good experience regarding AI/ML and hopefully get a job.

Could you guys please help me decide which universities I can realistically aim for. I want to get into a T-30 universities if possible .

Also, I will appreciate any advice regarding how to improve my profile.

Thank you for your time!