Taking a look at a list of graduate schools with low GPA requirements may give you the confidence you need to take the next step on your academic journey.
Whether you’re wondering how much a GPA matters for grad school or what your options are for getting into grad school with a lower GPA, there are a number of factors to consider.
Editorial Listing ShortCode:
You can try to ace your GRE or GMAT scores, take additional coursework, connect with a faculty member or academic advisor for guidance, or provide an explanation regarding your lower GPA during the admissions process. There are a number of ways to get around a less than stellar GPA.
Some students also wonder how many graduate schools to apply to. The answer will vary from student to student, but applying to about 6 colleges may help you feel more confident about your application plans. You may also want to note that a growing number of universities offer part time graduate school options for working students.
How Much Does GPA Matter for Grad School?
The specific admissions criteria for graduate degrees can vary from one school to the next and can be influenced by the specific program you’re interested in. One particular admission criteria that varies is the minimum requirement for GPAs.
While the submission of your college GPA is common when applying to graduate studies, some schools place more importance on this number than others.
In many cases, your GPA is only part of your complete application package. Other admissions materials can include GRE or GMAT scores, reference letters from former academic advisors, teachers, or employers, a letter of interest, and a copy of your resume.
Editorial Listing ShortCode:
Depending on the specific requirements of the program and school you’re applying to, there may be ample opportunity to include an explanation as to why your GPA is on the lower end of the spectrum. For example, you may be able to include this description in your letter of interest.
Other factors that can bolster your chances of getting into grad school with a low GPA include previous work experience, volunteer experience, or extracurricular activities. Grad school acceptance standards, including the minimum GPA, are often listed in detail on university websites.
What Is Considered a Low GPA in Grad School?
Generally speaking, a 2.99 GPA or lower is considered to be a low GPA. GPAs can be evaluated and perceived differently, though, by different schools or academic programs.
When reviewing your GPA, schools may consider a number of factors that can influence how that score is perceived, such as what program and school you were attending and what courses contributed to that score.
Your GPA is only one component of your application to graduate studies and is often accompanied by other information. Some schools also request GRE or GMAT scores, proof of work or volunteer experience, and feedback from former academic or workplace supervisors.
Graduate Schools with Low GPA Requirements
Having a lower GPA may lead you to feel hesitant about pursuing a graduate degree, but the truth is that low GPA masters programs exist. Even if your GPA is lower than you’d hope, it is still possible to be accepted into an advanced degree program.
Your ability to pursue a masters with low GPA results can depend on the school and program. For example, some schools may have a lower GPA threshold for programs such as a masters in information technology, a masters in human resource management, or a masters in criminal justice.
Other program topics that may be available to you with a lower than average GPA could include a Master of Arts in Religion, a Master of Business Administration, or a Master of Public Health.
Editorial Listing ShortCode:
By obtaining a high score on supplemental admissions testing, you can help to enhance your overall application and demonstrate your aptitude and readiness for a graduate program.
Two common admissions tests include the Graduate Record Examination (GRE) and Graduate Management Admissions Test (GMAT). Grad school GPA requirements vary greatly from one school to the next, so it is beneficial to check with the specific schools and programs you’re interested in attending.
How to Get into Graduate School with a Low GPA
You may have your heart set on a particular grad school that lists a GPA admission requirement that’s higher than the GPA you earned in your undergraduate degree.
If this is the case, there are a number of things you can try to overcome that GPA requirement and get into the grad school of your choice with a low GPA.
1. Ace Your GRE or GMAT Exams
The Graduate Record Examination (GRE) and Graduate Management Admissions Test (GMAT) are standardized tests used by many graduate schools. They test your ability to think critically and demonstrate your writing, math, and vocabulary skills.
These tests are not always required as part of the admissions process, but they can help to bolster your application and demonstrate that you’re ready for graduate-level studies.
2. Holistic Personal Statement
A holistic personal statement can be a great way to offer insight into your GPA and provide an explanation about why it is lower than average.
For example, your statement may include an explanation of personal hardships that you faced which contributed to your lower grades. If lower grades were consistent throughout your studies, then your personal statement can be an opportunity to take ownership of the poor performance.
Editorial Listing ShortCode:
You can explain what you learned from your experience and how you plan to use that insight to be more effective during your graduate studies.
3. Seek Guidance from a Faculty Member
Connecting with a member of the faculty can be another option to help you overcome graduate school GPA requirements.
Faculty members may be able to provide you with better insight into the application review and decision-making process. They may also provide you with tips for handling your lower GPA score.
Talking with a faculty member about your areas of interest or your academic and research goals can also help provide you with another person in your corner. They may even be able to advocate for your acceptance into the program.
4. Take Additional Coursework
You may be able to strengthen your grad school application and overcome your low GPA by enrolling in additional coursework. For instance, you can enroll in single standalone courses that are relevant to your area of interest.
Following the completion of that coursework, you can use your final grades to support your admissions application and demonstrate that you’re ready and able to take on graduate-level studies.
5. Gain Experience in a Relevant Field
Gaining real-world experience, whether through work or volunteer opportunities, can be another means to improve your application to grad school with a low GPA.
Your work or volunteer experience can demonstrate the skills and knowledge that you have in a particular area and can help show your readiness for enrollment in a graduate program.
6. Earn Awards and Attend Conferences
By earning awards or attending conferences that are relevant to your field of study, you may be able to exemplify your interest and dedication to the area of study that you’re wanting to obtain a graduate degree in.
7. Stellar Recommendation Letters
Providing stellar recommendation letters can often help strengthen your application to graduate school and overcome any barriers to having a low GPA. Recommendations often come from former academic advisors and teachers or employers and supervisors.
Recommendation letters can speak to your work ethic, life experiences, or personal traits. They can provide the school with a better idea of how you may fit into their program.
Can I Get My Masters with a 2.5 GPA?
Yes, there are some grad schools and programs that have lower GPA requirements. The minimum GPA requirement can vary from one graduate school to the next.
Additionally, GPA requirements may be less of a concern if you’re able to supplement your application with additional information. This can include high GRE or GMAT scores, relevant work experience, or positive letters of recommendation.
Can I Raise My Undergrad GPA after Graduation?
Yes, you can raise your undergraduate GPA by completing additional coursework. This may be in the form of repeating specific classes that you did poorly on during your undergraduate studies. You may also complete a second bachelors degree after graduation.
Editorial Listing ShortCode:
In some cases, depending on the grad school you’re interested in attending, you may be able to enroll without needing to raise your undergrad GPA. There are other measures you can pursue to bolster your overall application.
Universities Offering Graduate Degree Programs With 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 with a low GPA requirements.
Albany State University has four different categories of admission for graduate students: regular, provisional, non-degree, and continuous graduate certificate/professional.
Students who do not meet the standards for regular admission can apply for provisional or non-degree status. Those with this status can potentially earn regular status after successfully completing 9 semester hours of coursework.
Minimum GPA: 2.50 for Provisional Admission
Albany State University is accredited by the Commission on Colleges of the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools.
At Arkansas State University, graduate school applicants who fail to meet the standards for unconditional admission status may be able to qualify for conditional admission status.
Specific departments may have further admissions requirements, so acceptance to Arkansas State University in general does not guarantee admission to a particular program.
Minimum GPA: 2.75
Arkansas State University is accredited by the Higher Learning Commission.
Potential graduate students can apply to Arkansas Tech University under five different categories. Options are degree, non-degree, transient, undergraduate senior, or international student admissions.
Students who apply for degree admission may be accepted conditionally or unconditionally. Conditional admission is generally granted to students who do not meet the GPA requirements.
Minimum GPA: 2.50
Arkansas Tech University is accredited through the Higher Learning Commission of the North Central Association.
Bradley University offers graduate admission on a rolling basis, so students can apply at any time and potentially receive admission for the next available semester.
Students can be accepted on a conditional or unconditional basis, depending primarily on undergraduate grade point average. Conditionally accepted students must earn unconditional status in order to graduate.
Minimum GPA: 2.50 with conditional admission
Bradley University is accredited by the Higher Learning Commission.
When applying to California State University—Northridge, potential graduate students should apply to both the university and the specific program of interest.
If your application meets the university’s general admissions requirements, it will be sent to the appropriate program or department for further review. Applicants must submit transcripts and test scores.
Minimum GPA: 2.50
California State University – Northridge is accredited by the Western Association of Schools and Colleges.
Capella University offers two learning formats for online students, GuidedPath and FlexPath. GuidedPath provides more structure.
Applicants must meet somewhat higher admissions standards to qualify for FlexPath. Students who do not immediately qualify for FlexPath may be able to start on GuidedPath and switch to FlexPath later.
Minimum GPA: 2.80 for Master’s degree
Capella University is accredited by the Higher Learning Commission.
Central Connecticut State University has general admission requirements that all students are expected to meet.
Graduate students also need to meet the requirements of the specific department in which they wish to pursue a degree. Central Connecticut has a conditional admissions program in which students who do not meet the minimum GPA can start their graduate-level coursework.
Minimum GPA: 2.70
Central Connecticut State University is accredited by the New England Commission of Higher Education.
The process of applying for graduate school at Colorado Technical University begins by speaking with an admissions advisor in person or by phone. Then applicants need to fill out an online application. Applicants should submit undergraduate transcripts, but it is possible to be accepted as a non-regular student if you do not have a transcript on file.
Minimum GPA: 2.0
Colorado Technical University is accredited by the Higher Learning Commission.
Applicants at Concordia University—Chicago may be granted full admission, probationary admission, or provisional admission.
Students granted probationary admission may start classes but need to maintain a minimum GPA to continue. The provisional option is for students who meet the university’s general requirements but need to meet further requirements for acceptance to a specific program.
Minimum GPA: 2.85
Concordia University Chicago is accredited by the Higher Learning Commission.
DePaul University accepts graduate applications on a rolling basis. Each graduate program has its own admissions standards.
Master of Fine Arts programs often require applicants to submit portfolios of their work and letters of creative intent. STEM programs often require that students have successfully completed relevant coursework as undergraduates, such as Calculus 1 and 2.
Minimum GPA: 2.50
DePaul University is accredited by The Higher Learning Commission.
DeVry University offers graduate degree programs in online and hybrid formats. Applicants with low GPAs can still demonstrate their verbal and math proficiency by submitting GRE or GMAT scores. In some cases, DeVry can provide graduate students with course waivers, transfer credits, or credits for workforce or military training.
Minimum GPA: 2.50
DeVry University is accredited by The Higher Learning Commission.
Prospective graduate students at Eastern Michigan University can apply by filling out an application and submitting transcripts from all previously attended colleges and universities. Prospective students who do not meet the minimum GPA or other requirements may be able to gain acceptance on a conditional basis.
Minimum GPA: 2.70
Eastern Michigan University is accredited by the Higher Learning Commission.
Fisher College has graduate programs in business administration, criminal justice, counseling psychology, and psychology.
If accepted, applicants must provide official undergraduate transcripts before starting classes, but it is possible to be accepted without official transcripts. An application must include a personal essay or statement of purpose and two letters of recommendation.
Minimum GPA: 2.70
Fisher College is accredited by the New England Commission of Higher Education.
Fort Hays State University offers many different master’s degree programs, both online and on campus. Each program has its own admissions requirements.
Graduate programs available on campus include Fine Arts, English, Communication, Geosciences, and Biology. Online programs include Education, Special Education, Instructional Technology, and Education Administration. Other programs are available in both formats.
Minimum GPA: 2.50
FHSU is accredited by the Higher Learning Commission.
Acceptance into Grace Christian University’s online graduate programs is based primarily on undergraduate grade point average.
If you do not have a high enough GPA, you may still be able to gain provisional acceptance. This allows students to complete one semester of coursework, but they may need to meet minimum academic standards to continue.
Minimum GPA: 2.50
Grace Christian University is accredited by the Higher Learning Commission.
Grand Canyon University has both online and on-campus graduate programs. GCU is Christian, but applicants do not need to submit a statement of faith or provide evidence of their religious affiliation.
Applicants should submit undergraduate transcripts. Those who do not meet the minimum GPA requirements may be able to gain admission with their test scores.
Minimum GPA: 2.80
Grand Canyon University is accredited by the Higher Learning Commission.
At Illinois State University, each department has its own admissions standards for graduate students. Requirements generally include submitting undergraduate transcripts and GRE or GMAT scores. Illinois State does have a probationary admission program for applicants who do not meet the requirements for unconditional admission.
Minimum GPA: 2.80 for Master’s
Illinois State University is accredited by the Higher Learning Commission.
Johnson and Wales University does not require completion of the GRE or GMAT for admission to its graduate programs. Graduate degree programs at Johnson and Wales include a general MBA program, as well as MBAs with specializations. Specialization options include Information Technology and Operations and Supply Chain Management.
Minimum GPA: 2.85
JWU is accredited by the New England Commission of Higher Education.
Lamar University offers 100% online Master of Education degree programs. Specialization options include Administration, Digital Learning and Leading, Educational Technology Leadership, Special Education, and Teacher Leadership.
Applicants do not need to submit GRE or GMAT scores. They should submit transcripts from a regionally accredited institution and should already have teaching experience.
Minimum GPA: 2.50
Lamar University is accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges.
Liberty University offers many online degree programs at the graduate level. Students also have the opportunity to earn graduate certificates, the coursework for which can be later counted towards a full degree. Some online master’s degree programs at Liberty University have on-campus components, such as intensives or internships.
Minimum GPA: 2.50
Liberty University is accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges.
To gain admission to graduate programs at Mississippi College, applicants must submit test scores and undergraduate transcripts. It is also preferred that they have taken undergraduate coursework relevant to the graduate program to which they are applying.
Specific departments may have additional requirements. Non-degree seeking students may be exempt from the test score requirement.
Minimum GPA: 2.50
Mississippi College is accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges.
Mississippi State University offers many different degree programs at the graduate level. These include Agribusiness Management, Teaching, Business Administration, Engineering, Landscape Architecture, Music Education, and Physician Assistant Studies.
Each program has its own admissions requirements, usually based on a combination of undergraduate GPA and GRE scores.
Minimum GPA: 2.75
Mississippi State University is accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges.
General admission to graduate school at Missouri State University is primarily based on a combination of undergraduate GPA and GRE or GMAT scores. Each specific department may also have its own requirements for potential graduate students to meet. There is also an accelerated master’s program that current undergraduates can apply to.
Minimum GPA: 2.75
Missouri State University is accredited by the Higher Learning Commission.
Applicants to graduate school at Missouri Western State University must be accepted by both the university in general and the specific program they wish to enter. Applications must include transcripts and test scores. MWSU has a conditional admission program for those who fail to meet the minimum requirements.
Minimum GPA:2.75
Missouri Western is accredited by the Higher Learning Commission.
Students who want to attend graduate school at Murray State University must fill out an online application and provide transcripts from all previously attended colleges and universities.
Murray State offers master’s degrees in a variety of subjects, including agriculture, biology, chemistry, English, history, information systems, and mass communications.
Minimum GPA: 2.75 or below with conditional admission
Murray State University is accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges.
Applicants to National University’s graduate programs must hold a bachelor’s degree from a regionally accredited college or university, and they must submit transcripts. If you do not qualify for admission based on your grade point average, you may be able to submit GRE or GMAT scores and qualify on the basis of your test scores.
Minimum GPA: 2.50
National University is accredited by the WASC Senior College and University Commission.
Nebraska Wesleyan University requires graduate school applicants to possess a bachelor’s degree and to submit undergraduate transcripts.
Individual departments may have additional requirements that need to be met. There is also a conditional admission program in which students can begin taking classes on academic probation for one semester.
Minimum GPA: 2.50
Nebraska Wesleyan University is accredited by the Higher Learning Commission.
All applicants to Northeastern Illinois University’s graduate degree programs have general requirements to include in their applications. These include college transcripts, a statement of goals and objectives, 2 letters of recommendation, and standardized test scores. Individual departments may have additional requirements.
Minimum GPA: 2.75
Northeastern Illinois University is accredited by the Higher Learning Commission.
Northern Kentucky University requires that graduate school applicants submit transcripts and standardized test scores from the GRE or GMAT.
Certain individual programs may have more stringent requirements than the university in general. Graduate students who fail to meet the minimum requirements may still be accepted to Northern Kentucky on a conditional basis.
Minimum GPA: 2.50
Northern Kentucky University is accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges.
To gain acceptance to Notre Dame De Namur University as a graduate student, you will need to provide transcripts from all of the colleges you attended and two letters of recommendation. You may need to meet program-specific requirements as well. NDNU does not require applicants to submit GRE or GMAT scores.
Minimum GPA: 2.50
NDNU is accredited by WSCUC.
Park University has many degree programs available both online and on multiple campuses.
On the application, you need to list all of the colleges you have previously attended along with the dates attended, and you need to send your transcripts to the Office of the Registrar. GRE and GMAT scores are not required.
Minimum GPA: 2.75
Park University is accredited by the Higher Learning Commission.
Southern New Hampshire University has more than 25 daytime master’s degree programs. Some of these programs can typically be completed in as little as 12 to 18 months. There are 3 terms per year. Some graduate programs are also available online. Applicants who do not meet minimum GPA requirements may receive provisional acceptance.
Minimum GPA: 2.50
Southern New Hampshire University is accredited by the New England Commission of Higher Education.
Southern University has a variety of graduate degree programs on campus. Online degrees are available specifically in the fields of Criminal Justice and Public Administration. Southern University has a conditional admissions program for applicants who fail to meet minimum GPA requirements or who have not taken the GRE at the time of applying.
Minimum GPA: 2.70
Southern University is accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges.
Texas Wesleyan University has graduate degree programs in business, counseling, nursing, and education.
Many of these degrees can be obtained either online or on campus. Some of the online programs feature 7 week terms to help students earn their degrees faster. Applicants can fill out either the university’s application or the Apply Texas application.
Minimum GPA: 2.50
Texas Wesleyan University is accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools, Commission on Colleges.
Applicants to Troy University’s graduate degree programs need to submit official transcripts, standardized test scores, and a letter of recommendation. Conditional admission may be available for students who do not meet the full admissions requirements.
Minimum GPA: 2.50
Troy University is accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges.
The University of Findlay offers traditional graduate degree programs, intensive weekend programs, and fully online programs.
Findlay offers 11 different types of master’s degrees across six colleges. Military support services are available. Graduate students can also apply to be graduate assistants, teaching assistants, or research assistants.
Minimum GPA: 2.50
The University of Findlay is accredited by The Higher Learning Commission.
The University of Massachusetts—Boston requires that applicants submit official transcripts, test scores from the GRE or GMAT, letters of recommendation, and a statement of purpose.
Specific programs may require a supplemental list of coursework or a discipline-specific GPA calculation. International applicants may be asked to submit additional materials.
Minimum GPA: 2.75
The University of Massachusetts Boston is accredited by the New England Commission of Higher Education.
The University of Missouri—St Louis has many different options for graduate degree programs.
All applicants must submit official transcripts and proof of their bachelor’s degrees and GPAs. Students who fail to meet the minimum GPA requirement may be able to gain acceptance by submitting letters of recommendation or other supporting materials.
Minimum GPA: 2.75 with supportive evidence
The University of Missouri-St. Louis is accredited by the Higher Learning Commission.
Applicants to graduate school at the University of Nevada—Reno must submit proof of a bachelor’s degree and official transcripts. They must also submit official GRE or GMAT scores from within the last 5 years, a resumé or curriculum vitae, a statement of purpose, and 3 letters of recommendation.
Minimum GPA: 2.75 for Master’s Degree
The University of Nevada – Reno is accredited by the Northwest Commission on Colleges and Universities.
The University of North Carolina—Pembroke offers a variety of graduate degree programs. Options include studies in education, business, clinical mental health counseling, nursing, public administration, and social work.
Applicants may need to meet program-specific requirements. Students who are still working on their bachelor’s degrees may be admitted provisionally until their degrees are completed.
Minimum GPA: 2.50
The University of North Carolina at Pembroke is accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges.
The University of Southern Indiana offers 13 different master’s degree programs in fields such as social work, nursing, occupational therapy, business administration, and education. All are available on campus, and some are also available in a flexible online format that is designed to be convenient for working adults.
Minimum GPA: 2.50
The University of Southern Indiana is accredited by the Higher Learning Commission.
Applicants to graduate school at the University of Wisconsin—Milwaukee must submit transcripts, a reason statement, and letters of recommendation.
Prospective graduate students who do not meet minimum GPA requirements may still gain admission by submitting other evidence that they are capable of succeeding in graduate study. For example, they may submit GRE or GMAT scores.
Minimum GPA: 2.75
University of Wisconsin – Milwaukee is accredited by the Higher Learning Commission.
Upper Iowa University offers five different programs of graduate study, which are available both online and face-to-face.
Options include Business Administration, Education, Public Administration, Counseling, and Sport Administration. Each program has its own admissions requirements. Applicants who do not meet the official minimum GPA requirement may still be considered based on other factors.
Minimum GPA: 2.75
Upper Iowa University is accredited by the Higher Learning Commission.
Webster University offers admission on a rolling basis, but prospective students should generally apply one semester before the semester they wish to start classes.
Webster has a conditional admissions program for students who do not meet the minimum GPA requirements. Students in the conditional admission program are limited to one course per term until granted full admission.
Minimum GPA: 2.50
Webster University is accredited by The Higher Learning Commission.
West Texas A&M University offers many different graduate programs of study. Fields of study include agriculture and natural sciences, business, education and social sciences, engineering, nursing and health sciences, and the fine arts and humanities.
Applicants who do not meet minimum standards may still be able to qualify for conditional admission.
Minimum GPA: 2.75
West Texas A&M University is accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges.
West Virginia University offers a variety of graduate degrees both online and on campus. All applicants to graduate school must submit official undergraduate transcripts. Other requirements vary by program, but may include a GPA higher than the university standard, standardized test scores, letters of recommendation, or a statement of purpose.
Minimum GPA: 2.75
West Virginia University is accredited by the Higher Learning Commission.
Western Governors University offers fully online degree programs in education, business, information technology, and health professions.
Students can take classes from anywhere they have access to the internet. Students have access to online student groups and communities, so they can connect with other students taking the same courses.
Minimum GPA: 2.50
Western Governors University is accredited by the Northwest Commission on Colleges and Universities.
All applicants to graduate school at Western Kentucky University should have a bachelor’s degree and should submit official transcripts.
Specific degree programs may have additional requirements, such as GRE or GMAT scores. On-campus degree programs are available in education and behavioral sciences, health and human services, business, science and engineering, and the arts.
Minimum GPA: 2.75
Western Kentucky University is accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges.
Applicants to graduate degree programs at Wichita State University must possess a bachelor’s degree from a regionally accredited college or university.
Other requirements, including minimum grade point average, vary by program. In some cases, GPA may be calculated based on the last 60 credit hours of coursework. Some programs may require an entrance examination.
Minimum GPA: 2.75
Wichita State is accredited by the Higher Learning Commission of the North Central Association of Colleges and Schools.
Basic requirements for graduate admission at Youngstown State University include a bachelor’s degree and a satisfactory undergraduate GPA. Some programs may also request letters of recommendation. Students who fail to meet minimum GPA requirements may still gain entrance by presenting satisfactory GRE or GMAT scores.
Minimum GPA: 2.70
Youngstown State University is accredited by the Higher Learning Commission.
Getting Your Graduate Degree Online
Many students are interested in pursuing an advanced graduate-level degree but are hesitant due to a low GPA from their undergraduate studies.
If this is you, there may be a number of options available to you that can help you overcome that GPA and get accepted into a grad program. Your options can include enrolling in a program that has a lower GPA threshold for enrollment or improving your GPA after graduation by retaking classes.
You can also take steps to bolster your application through GRE and GMAT scores, letters of recommendation, or work experience. If you’re ready to take this next step in your educational journey, you can start today by exploring online graduate programs from accredited universities.
