If you currently do not have a high grade point average, you may be wondering if there are any colleges that accept low GPA.
The good news is that there are actually many colleges with low GPA requirements! GPA is not the only factor college admission officers consider when making decisions.
Editorial Listing ShortCode:
This article will discuss how to navigate the college admissions process, including possible options for students with low GPAs.
Colleges That Accept Low GPA
Having a low grade point average (GPA) does not have to be a hindrance to achieving your educational goals and getting accepted into college.
Many colleges who accept low GPA try to use a holistic approach in their admissions processes, evaluating prospective students on more than just numbers. Here are some additional factors that many schools take into consideration:
- Participation in a variety of extracurriculars
- Letters of recommendation from teachers or counselors
- Well-written personal statements and essays
When choosing which schools to apply to, you may want to check each school’s admissions policy before applying. Some schools emphasize GPA in the admissions process more heavily than others. Even schools that have a strict minimum GPA requirement may offer conditional acceptance.
Editorial Listing ShortCode:
With conditional acceptance, you can attend for a semester and receive full acceptance if you meet your school’s conditions, such as improving your grades. Some colleges offer open admissions. Applicants to these schools usually only need to meet very basic requirements, such as having a high school diploma or GED, in order to attend. This is common at community colleges.
Some community colleges offer four year degrees. You could also consider attending a community college for 2 years and then transferring to a university. This would give the chance to earn a new college GPA for university’s to consider.
What Is a Low GPA in College?
A grade point average is calculated by adding together your grades and dividing by the number of courses you have taken.
Here are the traditional, unweighted GPA calculations for letter grades:
- A = 4.0
- B = 3.0
- C = 2.0
- D = 1.0
- F = 0.0
If you earn straight As, your GPA will be a 4.0. In terms of percentage grades, a 4.0 is equivalent to an average of 90% or higher, while a 3.0 is equivalent to an average of 80% or higher, and so on.
Some schools weight grades to take into account the difficulty level of a student’s coursework. This is called a weighted GPA. For example, in high school you might get 10 points added to your final grade in each Advanced Placement class that you take. While an unweighted GPA scale ranges from 0.0 to 4.0, a weighted GPA can go up to 5.0.
At most colleges in the United States, the average unweighted GPA is 3.0, so any GPA below 3.0 is considered low.
Can You Raise Your GPA?
It is definitely possible to raise your GPA, but doing so can become more difficult as you progress through high school:
- Freshman Year. If your long-term plan is to go to college, freshman year is the ideal time to begin maintaining a higher GPA.
- Sophomore Year. As a sophomore, you will have a cumulative GPA that includes the grades you made last year as a freshman. Even if your grades this year are higher than they were last year, your cumulative GPA may still be held down somewhat by any poor past grades.
- Junior Year. As a junior, you will likely have more difficult coursework than what you had during the first 2 years of high school. You can still improve your grades with faithful work, and college admissions officers will often see this reflected on your transcript.
- Senior Year. Many high school students begin applying to colleges during senior year. For seniors, college admissions officers may only have your first semester grades when making admissions decisions. That said, you can still work to maintain the highest grades possible. Some even wait to apply to college until after they have graduated from high school so that colleges can see their final second semester grades if they reflect a higher GPA.
Even if you are not successful in raising your GPA significantly, there are a variety of universities that accept low GPAs.
Other College Admissions Considerations
There are many items besides GPA that colleges take into account when choosing which students to accept. If you’re wondering how to get into college with a low GPA, here are some other factors you may want to focus on:
- Test Scores. If college admissions officers want to see a numerical measure of your academic knowledge, a high score on the SAT or ACT could help you compensate for a low GPA. Some colleges that do not otherwise ask students for test scores may still allow you to submit scores as an alternative to meeting a minimum GPA requirement.
- Essays. Strong writing skills are essential in most college classes. Essays provide college admissions officials with the opportunity to directly evaluate your writing, rather than relying on grades or test scores. Schools that accept low GPA usually include essays in the application process so you can showcase your work.
- Extracurricular Activities. In addition to looking for students who are good at academics, many colleges also look for those who have unique interests and hobbies to help make their student bodies more diverse. You can usually submit a list of your extracurriculars as part of the application process.
- Letters of Recommendation. A teacher or guidance counselor may be able to write a letter of recommendation for you that identifies your strengths as a student that may not show in your GPA.
You can still be competitive for college admissions even without a high GPA.
What Is a Good College GPA?
Exactly what is considered a good GPA in college is subjective and varies by school. In general, you usually want your GPA to stay above a 2.0 on a 4.0 scale.
Editorial Listing ShortCode:
A 2.0 is usually the minimum GPA needed to qualify for federal financial aid and to avoid being placed on academic probation or dismissed from your university. If you struggle with maintaining a good GPA in college, you can generally choose to retake classes to try and improve your grade.
Do Colleges Look at Cumulative GPA?
A GPA can look at just one semester, or it can include the average of all the courses you have taken so far. The latter is called cumulative GPA.
College admissions officers usually consider your cumulative GPA to be more informative than your GPA from any individual semester, even your most recent semester. Cumulative GPA provides a more long-term and comprehensive perspective on your academic performance, so this is the first number most admissions officials will look at.
Is a 1.0 GPA Good?
If your GPA is only a 1.0, your average letter grade is a D. This GPA would not be competitive for admissions at most colleges.
It is possible to go to college with only a 1.0 GPA, especially if you opt to attend a school that has open admissions, but your possible options may be somewhat limited. If you currently have a 1.0 GPA but intend to go to college, you may want to make raising your grades a high priority.
Is a 1.5 GPA Good?
At this level, you are probably earning mostly Cs and Ds in your classes. While a 1.5 is better than a 1.0, it is still below the national average of 3.0. A GPA of only 1.5 will still limit your admissions prospects at most colleges.
Raising your grades could increase your chances of getting accepted to college, and you could also pursue schools with open admissions.
Is a 2.3 GPA Good?
A GPA of 2.3 is still below the national average of 3.0, and a 2.3 GPA represents grades of mostly Cs. With a 2.3, it could still be more difficult to get accepted into colleges with competitive admissions.
At this level, though, you could have a better chance of improving your GPA to try and reach the national average. A 2.3 could be acceptable at some colleges if the rest of your application looks good.
What’s the Lowest GPA Accepted to College?
Minimum GPA requirements can vary widely at different schools, but they could range anywhere from 2.0 to 3.5. Yes, though it’s the lowest acceptable GPA at many schools, there are colleges that accept 2.0 GPA scores for their students.
Minimum GPA requirements usually represent the minimum an applicant needs to be considered for admission to a particular school. Meeting the minimum GPA requirement in and of itself does not guarantee admission, though.
Some colleges do not have minimum GPA requirements, either because they prefer to use a holistic admissions process or because they provide open admissions to basically all students.
Are There Scholarships for Low GPAs?
If you have a low GPA, you may be concerned about how you will pay for college. While there are merit scholarships for students with higher GPAs, there are also scholarships available that you can qualify for without having a high GPA.
Editorial Listing ShortCode:
There are in fact colleges that accept 2.5 GPA scores for scholarships and some scholarships do not have GPA requirements at all. They simply require that students fill out applications or write essays. You may still be able to find financial assistance to attend college, regardless of your GPA.
Best Colleges that Accept Low GPA Requirements
Methodology: The following school list is in alphabetical order. To be included, a college or university must be regionally accredited and offer degree programs online or in a hybrid format. In addition, the universities accept low GPA or no minimum GPA as part of the admission requirements.
Prospective first-year students at Albany State University must meet one of three minimum requirements to be considered for acceptance. They must have an unweighted GPA of 2.0, an SAT math score of 440, or an SAT evidence-based reading and writing score of 480. The school prefers applicants with high school coursework that includes English, mathematics, science, social science, and a foreign language.
Albany State University is accredited by the Commission on Colleges of the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools.
American InterContinental University has no minimum GPA requirement, and they provide a streamlined application and admissions process to make it simple and convenient. Admissions advisors are available to guide prospective students through the process. AIU offers courses online and at multiple campus locations.
American InterContinental University is accredited by the Higher Learning Commission.
Incoming freshmen at Arkansas State University are expected to have a cumulative high school GPA of at least 2.75 and a minimum ACT score of 21 or a minimum SAT score of 1060. Prospective students with a GPA of at least 2.3 can apply for conditional admission.
Arkansas State University is accredited by The Higher Learning Commission of the North Central Association of Colleges and Schools.
Arkansas Tech University has a minimum GPA requirement of 2.0 for entering freshmen applying for unconditional admission. Prospective students should also have a composite ACT score of at least 19 or a composite SAT score of at least 1010. Academic performance is not the sole criterion for admission into the university.
Arkansas Tech University is accredited by the Higher Learning Commission.
Bloomfield College has a minimum GPA requirement of 2.0. First-time students may apply to start in the fall, spring, or summer semesters. Applicants are asked to submit their high school transcripts, two letters of recommendation from guidance counselors or teachers, and an essay or personal statement. SAT and ACT scores are optional.
Bloomfield College is accredited by the Middle States Commission on Higher Education.
The minimum GPA to attend California State University—San Bernardino is 2.5. CSU does not require any standardized tests, but they do encourage applicants to participate in clubs and extracurricular activities. CSU prefers applicants with high school coursework that includes English, math, laboratory science, social science, foreign language, visual or performing art, and electives.
California State University – San Bernardino is accredited by the Western Association of Schools and Colleges.
Capella University’s minimum GPA is 2.8. Applicants are asked to submit high school transcripts but not SAT or ACT scores. Individual programs at Capella sometimes have additional requirements, which may include letters of recommendation, essays or writing samples, or faculty interviews. Capella University offers degrees in business, education, information technology, nursing, and more.
Capella University is accredited by the Higher Learning Commission.
The preferred GPA for Central State University is 2.5 or higher, but applicants can be considered for admission with a GPA as low as 2.2. To be considered for scholarships from Central State, students must have a GPA of at least 2.7, but scholarship criteria vary by program.
Central State University is accredited by the Higher Learning Commission.
Colorado Technical University provides open enrollment with no minimum GPA or test score requirements. Students often hear from an advisor within 24 hours of completing their application. CTU offers degree programs online, on campus, and in hybrid formats. Students may enroll part-time or full-time.
Colorado Technical University is accredited by the Higher Learning Commission.
East Coast Polytechnic Institute University has a minimum GPA requirement of 2.5. There are additional requirements for those specifically applying to the Bachelor of Science in Nursing program, including an interview. ECPI offers classes online and at multiple campus locations. All of ECPI’s academic programs were created in conjunction with industry professionals.
ECPI University is accredited by the Commission on Colleges of the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools.
Florida Memorial University’s minimum GPA requirement is 2.4. FMU provides automatic admission to students whose cumulative GPA places them in the top 20% of their graduating classes. The school prefers applicants with high school coursework that includes English, mathematics, natural science, social science, and a foreign language.
Florida Memorial University is accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges.
At Fort Hays State University, the minimum GPA requirement is 2.0. FHSU also prefers applicants who earned a composite score of at least 21 on the ACT or a combined score of 1080 on the SAT. FHSU uses ACT and SAT superscores for admission and to award scholarships.
FHSU is accredited by the Higher Learning Commission.
Governors State University requires a minimum unweighted GPA of 2.0. SAT and ACT scores are optional. During their first two years, GSU students are expected to complete general education requirements in full-time, daytime classes.
Before choosing a major, freshmen must choose a First Year Focus Area. Options to choose from include: Arts and Entertainment, Business, Discovery, Education, Humanities, Social and Behavioral Sciences, and STEM.
Governors State University is accredited by the Higher Learning Commission.
The minimum GPA at Grace Christian University is 2.5. Prospective students who do not meet this standard may apply for provisional admission. The admissions process is streamlined, and personal advisors are available to help with each step. Prospective students must fill out a simple application form and send their official transcripts.
Grace Christian University is accredited by the Higher Learning Commission.
At Grambling State University, applicants must have a high school GPA of at least 2.0, a composite ACT score of at least 20, or a combined SAT score of at least 1020. All incoming freshmen are required to submit test scores. Prospective students are expected to have completed a high school curriculum that included English, algebra, science, and social studies.
Grambling State University is accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges.
To be considered for admission at Grand Canyon University, applicants must have an unweighted GPA of at least 2.0. GCU offers classes both on campus and online. It has degree programs in such varied fields as business and management, nursing and healthcare, engineering and technology, theology and ministry, and more.
Grand Canyon University is accredited by the Higher Learning Commission.
Gwyneed Mercy University has a minimum GPA requirement of 2.5. For certain majors, applicants may be required to submit standardized test scores or letters of recommendation or attend an interview. The school prefers applicants with high school coursework that includes English, mathematics, science, and history. Admissions counselors are available to answer questions.
Gwynedd Mercy University is accredited by the Middle States Commission on Higher Education.
Kentucky State University requires a minimum cumulative unweighted GPA of 2.5. SAT and ACT scores are optional. KSU also offers the Excel Program. This program allows students with GPAs as low as 2.0 to be admitted into KSU’s associate degree programs, with the possibility of moving on to a bachelor’s degree afterward.
Kentucky State University is accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges.
Langston University has a minimum GPA requirement of 2.0. SAT and ACT scores are not required. Langston offers degree programs across a variety of fields, including agriculture and applied sciences, arts and sciences, business, education, and nursing and health professions. Classes are offered at three different campus locations.
Langston University is accredited by the Higher Learning Commission.
Lewis Clark State College requires a minimum GPA of 2.0, but students with lower GPAs may apply for provisional admission. Provisionally admitted students can receive regular admission upon completing 14 credits of coursework while maintaining a GPA of at least 2.0. LC State recommends that applicants provide SAT or ACT scores.
Lewis-Clark State College is accredited by the Northwest Commission on Colleges and Universities.
The minimum GPA requirement at Life University is 2.0. Prospective students with lower GPAs may apply for provisional admission. SAT and ACT scores are not currently required, but Life University does use them for placement if they are provided. Life University follows a quarterly calendar, and prospective students may apply to start in any quarter.
Life University is accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges.
Lincoln University requires a minimum GPA of 2.0 and submission of SAT or ACT scores. The application does not require personal essays or letters of recommendation, but supporting materials may be sent to the admissions office. Lincoln University emphasizes experiential learning and real-world experience.
Lincoln University is accredited by the Higher Learning Commission.
The Metropolitan College of New York requires prospective students to provide academic transcriptions showing a GPA of at least 2.5. A personal statement or essay and a letter of reference from a guidance counselor or teacher must also be submitted. Applicants may apply to start in the fall, spring, or summer. MCNY has campuses in Manhattan and the Bronx.
Metropolitan College of New York is accredited by the Middle States Association of Colleges and Schools.
National Louis University requires a minimum GPA of 2.0. NLU offers flexible class schedules for working adults, and they are primarily looking for Chicago-area professionals who want to make a career of serving others. Degree programs are available in business and management, computer science, health and human services, and more.
NLU is accredited by the Higher Learning Commission.
National University has a minimum GPA requirement of 2.0, but prospective students with lower GPAs may apply for probationary admission. First-time college students are required to take the ACCUPLACER for math and English placement. Individual degree programs may have additional admissions requirements. NU offers classes both on campus and online.
National University is accredited by the WASC Senior College and University Commission.
North Central University’s minimum GPA is 2.2, but provisional admission is possible for those with a lower GPA. Applicants with a GPA below 2.5 are asked to submit SAT or ACT scores. NCU is also looking for applicants who have a personal relationship with Christ.
North Central University is accredited by the Higher Learning Commission.
Northeastern Illinois University requires applicants to have a GPA of at least 2.5. Applicants are encouraged but not required to submit SAT or ACT scores, which can be helpful for scholarship qualification and for math and English placement. Prospective students may apply to begin in the fall, spring, or summer.
Northeastern Illinois University is accredited by the Higher Learning Commission.
Purdue University has no minimum GPA requirement. Purdue reviews applications individually and holistically. Factors that are taken into account include high school coursework, overall grades in academic coursework, grades related to intended major, and grade fluctuation. Applicants may also submit an essay and test scores for further consideration.
Purdue University is accredited by the Higher Learning Commission.
Regis University evaluates applicants based on high school records, personal essays, and counselor or teacher recommendations. There is no minimum GPA requirement. Regis University is test optional, and applicants without test scores are given equal consideration for both admission and merit scholarships. Most admissions decisions are processed within four weeks.
Regis University is accredited by the Higher Learning Commission.
Saint Leo University has no minimum GPA requirement, and both standardized test scores and letters of recommendation are optional. Saint Leo looks for applicants whose academic performance was consistently strong throughout high school or whose performance improved steadily. Prospective students are also strongly encouraged by the school to visit campus.
Saint Leo University is accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges.
Saint Mary’s University of Minnesota uses a rolling admissions process, so prospective students can apply at any time. There is no minimum GPA requirement, but applicants are asked to provide their official high school transcripts, official SAT or ACT scores, and a brief essay or personal statement. Letters of recommendation are optional.
Saint Mary’s University of Minnesota is accredited by the Higher Learning Commission.
Savannah State University requires a minimum GPA of 2.0. GPA scores are calculated using the grades listed on official transcripts. Savannah State does not add or remove weights for accelerated courses. Applicants are also asked to submit SAT or ACT scores. Applicants may apply to begin in the fall, spring, or summer semesters.
Savannah State University is accredited by the Commission on Colleges of the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools.
Shaw University is a historically black university with a minimum GPA requirement of 2.0. Other factors taken into account for admission include class rank, standardized test scores, personal recommendations, and records of past conduct. The school prefers applicants with high school coursework that includes English, mathematics, natural sciences, social sciences, and electives.
The Shaw University is accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges.
Southern New Hampshire University strives to make education accessible to all. It offers a variety of different program options designed to accommodate students with any GPA. SAT and ACT scores are not required. SNHU offers admission on a rolling basis, with six start dates available each year.
Southern New Hampshire University is accredited by the New England Commission of Higher Education.
Southern University at New Orleans is a historically black university. Applicants are asked to submit SAT or ACT scores and official high school transcripts showing a GPA of at least 2.0. The school prefers applicants with high school coursework that includes English, math, science, social studies, a foreign language, and art.
Southern University at New Orleans is accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges.
Talladega College requires applicants to have a minimum GPA of 2.0 and high school coursework in English, mathematics, social studies, and health or physical education. Talladega also considers standardized test scores and extracurricular activities in its admissions decisions. An ideal applicant will display self-motivation and a strong desire to succeed.
Talladega College is accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges.
Tennessee State University’s minimum GPA requirement is 2.5, with admission guaranteed to those with a GPA of at least 3.2. TSU also requires an ACT score of at least 19 or an SAT score of at least 900. TSU is a historically black university known for programs that connect students to real employer needs.
Tennessee State University is accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges.
Texas Southern University requires a minimum GPA of 2.5, a minimum composite ACT score of 17, or a minimum combined SAT score of 900 for admission. Outside of these criteria, Texas Southern provides a holistic and individual review of each application. Applicants can apply to begin in the fall, spring, or summer.
Texas Southern University is accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools.
To receive unconditional admission to Troy University, applicants must have a minimum GPA of 2.0 and either a minimum ACT score of 20 or a minimum SAT score of 1030. Test scores are optional if your GPA is at least 2.5. Applicants who do not meet these requirements may apply for conditional admission.
Troy University is accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges.
The University of Baltimore asks that applicants submit official high school transcripts showing a GPA of at least 2.0, an essay or personal statement, and a letter of recommendation. A list of extracurricular activities is optional but encouraged by the school’s admissions department. Test scores are required for scholarship consideration but not for admission.
The University of Baltimore is accredited by the Middle States Commission on Higher Education.
The University of Dubuque has simplified its application process by waiving application fees and making standardized test scores optional. The minimum GPA requirement is 2.0, but UD also looks for students with unique goals and aspirations. UD provides small class sizes and an engaging community.
The University of Dubuque is accredited by the Higher Learning Commission.
The University of Houston—Clear Lake has a minimum GPA requirement of 2.0. Those who do not meet the minimum GPA requirement can still apply through an individual review process. This process requires the submission of test scores, an essay, and letters of recommendation.
The University of Houston-Clear Lake is accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges.
The University of Maine requires a minimum GPA of 2.0, but some individual programs may have higher requirements. Applicants are also evaluated based on an essay and the rigor of their academic coursework. UMaine is 100% test optional, and prospective students may apply to begin in either the fall or spring semester.
The University of Maine is accredited by the New England Commission of Higher Education.
The University of Maine—Fort Kent requires a minimum GPA of 2.0 and high school coursework that includes English, lab science, algebra, and social science. A foreign language is also recommended by the school’s admissions department. UMFK also takes into account letters of recommendation and life experiences. Admission is offered on a rolling basis.
The University of Maine at Fort Kent is accredited by the New England Commission of Higher Education.
While the University of West Florida recommends that applicants have a minimum GPA of at least 2.5, it provides a holistic review of each application. Students with lower GPAs may be admitted. UWF does require SAT or ACT scores. Applicants may apply to begin in the fall, spring, or summer.
The University of West Florida is accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges.
Utica University does not have a minimum GPA requirement. It does recommend that applicants have a college preparatory high school education that includes English, social studies, mathematics, science, and a foreign language. Utica uses a rolling admissions process, and applications are accepted until programs are filled.
Utica University is accredited by the Middle States Commission on Higher Education.
To apply at Virginia Union University, prospective students need to submit official high school transcripts showing a GPA of at least 2.0 and SAT or ACT scores. VUU is a historically black university that offers a wide range of degree programs both on campus and online.
Virginia Union University is accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges.
Voorhees College asks that applicants provide official high school transcripts indicating both class rank and GPA and a letter of recommendation from a teacher, principal, or counselor. The minimum GPA requirement is 2.0. Voorhees recommends but does not require the submission of SAT or ACT scores.
Voorhees College is accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges.
Western Governors University does not have a minimum GPA requirement for admission to the university, but individual programs may have their own requirements. There are start dates available every month, so applicants can apply at any time. No standardized testing is required. WGU is committed to diversity and inclusion.
Western Governors University is accredited by the Northwest Commission on Colleges and Universities.
William Penn University requires a minimum GPA of 2.0 and a minimum ACT composite score of 18 or an equivalent SAT score. Admissions decisions are made as soon as applications and supporting materials are received. William Penn is committed to the Quaker principles of simplicity, peace-making, integrity, community, and equality.
William Penn University is accredited by the Higher Learning Commission.
Getting Your College Degree Online
Many low GPA colleges have degree programs available online. Online classes are often convenient because they omit the need to commute to campus, and they can make it easier for you to balance your studies with work and other commitments.
Earning a college degree is nearly always an option, regardless of your GPA or past academic performance. You can also work to improve your academic performance, no matter what point you are at in your schooling.
Having a college degree can open up a wider variety of career options. If you’re wanting to expand your skills and qualifications with higher education, you can start exploring accredited colleges and universities today.
