Hi I am in a bit of a problem. I am studying in an Indian University which gives out percentages on each subject exams. And the University is not generous with their marks, so if you calculate my GPA from my percentages it comes to a really low GPA, about 2.14/4 if you just calculate the percentage directly to GPA by taking it on a scale of 4. Although my percentage here in my Univ is treatede as a good one, in the sense that my rank in my class/college would be good. But my hands are tied, I am applying only to Drexel, Stevens, IndianaU-PurdueU and RIT, NY. These Univs give out good FinAid to Intl Students and have CoOp Programmes which help finance my education. After I transfer to suppose Drexel and complete a year of engineering there and manage to get a good GPA will I be able to transfer to a better institution like USC or similar?

I've got good recs from Profs, good extra curriculars, great work ex and more, just my marks are not comparable to other applicants. How does this affect me? Do Univs convert my GPA from my percentage directly without considering the fact that my Univ does not give out high marks? Please let me know what to do, I really need help.

Plus my TOEFL score is 106/120 for the Oct 29th exam. Please let me know what my chances are at getting a scholarship at Drexel Univ as a Intl. Transfer student!

Thanks,
vidx