Colleges for a 2.8 GPA

colleges that accept a 2.8 grade point average

What is a 2.8 GPA?

A 2.8 grade point average is a numerical representation of your course letter grades on a 4.0 scale. Your 2.8 GPA indicates you averaged B- grades in your classes and delivered slightly below average performance. The percent equivalent of a 2.8 grade point average is 81% on the percentage grading scale. This means that you scored an average of 81% on tests and assignments. GPA values for B- letter grades range from 2.7 to 2.9. Your 2.8 GPA positions you in the middle of the B- range, demonstrating you have likely earned almost all B's (3.0) with a few C's (2.0). Learn more about what the B- letter grade signifies.

Is a 2.8 GPA good?

A 2.8 is below the average U.S. high school GPA of 3.1 and also behind of the average GPA for college-bound students (3.15 GPA). You've earned more B's than C's in your coursework, indicating a somewhat below-average academic achievement. You will find some four-year colleges where a 2.8 GPA is within the typical GPA range for accepted students, and you can be a competitive applicant. However, you face limited access to more competitive programs. If you are still a junior or below, you have a few semesters to earn some A's and B's to bring your GPA over 3.0. This will open more doors for you and allow you to apply to a wider variety of more selective colleges.

What colleges can I get into with a 2.8 GPA?

Graduating with a high school GPA of 2.8 places you within of the academic range at colleges like Alabama State University, Texas Southern University and Virginia State University. Based on incoming freshman GPA data for U.S. schools, our analysis indicates that 105 colleges would consider your 2.8 GPA competitive. The most popular colleges, historically accepting students with GPAs within the range of 2.6 to 3.0 (2.8 +/- 0.2), are listed below. To view your chances of admission at each school, scroll down and explore the full list.

Raise a 2.8 GPA to a 3.0

If you have a low GPA and have decided to take action to improve your grades, congratulations setting a goal is an important first step. A 3.0 is a good target as it will open many more doors for you when you apply to colleges.

In order to increase your 2.8 you will need to take some steps

  • Attend all classes
  • Pay attention and take good notes in class
  • Do all of your assignments and turn them in on time
  • Practice good study habits. Every night, dedicate a block of several hours for doing homework, reviewing class notes and studying for tests
  • Ask your teacher for extra help outside of class
  • Seek assistance from a tutor for subjects you're having trouble with
  • Make friends with someone who is doing well in a class and see if they are willing to help you

Next an important consideration is if it's mathematically possible and realistic to achieve a 3.0. This will depend greatly on how far along you are in school as it gets progressively harder to increase a grade average. Consult the table below for a detailed look at your highest possible GPA and what grades it will take to get there. At a high level, a 3.0 is still achievable if you're a freshman, sophomore or junior. But probably not if you're a senior.

Demographic Statistics

Let's examine how a 2.8 GPA stacks up to the national high school averages across various demographic groups

Gender

  • Male: A 2.8 is 0.2 points (7%) lower than the average male student GPA of 3.0
  • Female: A 2.8 is 0.4 points (13%) lower than the average female student GPA of 3.23

Race/ethnicity

  • White: A 2.8 is 0.4 points (13%) lower than the average white student GPA of 3.23
  • Black: A 2.8 is 0 points (1%) lower than the average black student GPA of 2.83
  • Hispanic: A 2.8 is 0.2 points (5%) lower than the average Hispanic student GPA of 2.95
  • Asian/Pacific Islander: A 2.8 is 0.6 points (17%) lower than the average Asian/Pacific Islander student GPA of 3.39

Statistics source: 2019 National Assessment of Educational Progress (NAEP) High School Transcript Study (HSTS)

How can I raise my 2.8 GPA?

Consider the following tips to improve or maintain your 2.8 GPA. These are good study habits to develop in high school which will improve your college admission chances.

  • Identify areas of weakness: Determine which subjects or topics you struggle with and focus on improving those areas. This targeted approach will help you make the most significant impact on your overall GPA.
  • Develop a study schedule: Create a consistent study routine that allocates time for each subject. Establishing regular study habits will help you stay on track and better retain information.
  • Use effective study techniques: Employ proven study techniques like spaced repetition and active recall to enhance your learning and retention.
  • Seek help when needed: Don't hesitate to ask for help from teachers, peers, or tutors if you're struggling with a subject. Most schools offer tutoring services, and your teachers are there to support your learning.
  • Participate in class: Engage in classroom discussions and ask questions. Active participation can deepen your understanding of the material and demonstrate your commitment to learning.
  • Organize your study materials: Keep your notes, assignments, and resources well-organized, making it easier to access and review them when needed.
  • Break down large tasks: Divide complex projects or lengthy assignments into smaller, manageable tasks. This makes it easier to track your progress and reduce feeling overwhelmed.
  • Practice good time management: Use to-do lists or online schedulers to manage your time effectively. Dedicating time for studying, extracurricular activities, and relaxation can help you maintain a healthy balance.
  • Utilize online resources: Take advantage of online resources, such as Khan Academy, YouTube tutorials, or educational websites, to supplement your learning and gain a deeper understanding of challenging topics.
  • Join or form study groups: Collaborate with classmates in study groups to review material, discuss concepts, and prepare for exams. This collaborative learning environment can boost your motivation and understanding of the subject matter.
  • Stay consistent: Consistency is key to improving your GPA. Maintain good study habits, complete assignments on time, and stay focused on your academic goals.
  • Monitor your progress: Track your GPA with a GPA calculator and assess your progress. This will help you stay motivated and adjust your strategies as needed to continue improving.
  • Foster a growth mindset: Believe in your ability to grow and improve. Embrace challenges as opportunities for learning and remind yourself that your efforts will yield results.

Aside from good study habits, chart your path towards your target GPA by understanding what it will take to get there. You can refer to a raise your GPA calculator to check the future grades you need to achieve the GPA you aspire to.

How high can I still increase my 2.8 GPA?

The table below will help you see how high or low you can possibly change your GPA if you currently have a 2.8. As you progress in school it becomes more and more difficult to improve your overall grade point average. Select the tab and table column corresponding to the last semester you completed. Then find a row for your predicted future letter grade average. The result would be your GPA at graduation if you can maintain that letter grade.

Freshmen with a 2.8 after first semester can still possibly raise their GPA as high as a 3.85 or drop it to a 0.35. There is still a lot of time to change your GPA before graduation and it can vary by 3.50 grade points in the future.

Possible grades you can raise your 2.8 GPA to before graduation for freshmen
Future Grades 1st Semester Completed 2nd Semester Completed
A 3.85 3.70
A- 3.59 3.48
B+ 3.24 3.17
B 2.98 2.95
B- 2.71 2.73
C+ 2.36 2.42
C 2.10 2.20
C- 1.84 1.97
D+ 1.49 1.68
D 1.23 1.45
D- 0.96 1.22
F 0.35 0.70

Sophomores with a 2.8 after first semester can still raise their GPA as high as a 3.55 or see it fall to a 1.05. You have some time to change your GPA before graduation and it can vary by 2.50 grade points in the future.

Possible grades you can raise your 2.8 GPA to before graduation for sophomores
Future Grades 1st Semester Completed 2nd Semester Completed
A 3.55 3.40
A- 3.36 3.25
B+ 3.11 3.05
B 2.92 2.90
B- 2.74 2.75
C+ 2.49 2.55
C 2.30 2.40
C- 2.11 2.25
D+ 1.86 2.05
D 1.67 1.90
D- 1.49 1.75
F 1.05 1.40

Juniors with a 2.8 after first semester can still raise their GPA to a 3.25 or lower it to a 1.75. You have limited classes left to change your GPA before graduation and it can vary by 1.50 grade points in the future.

Possible grades you can raise your 2.8 GPA to before graduation for juniors
Future Grades 1st Semester Completed 2nd Semester Completed
A 3.25 3.10
A- 3.14 3.02
B+ 2.99 2.92
B 2.88 2.85
B- 2.76 2.77
C+ 2.61 2.67
C 2.50 2.60
C- 2.39 2.52
D+ 2.24 2.42
D 2.12 2.35
D- 2.01 2.27
F 1.75 2.10

After first semester senior year your GPA is fairly locked in. A 2.8 can be raised a 2.95 or slip to a 2.45. You have very little time to change your GPA before graduation and it can vary by 0.50 grade points at the most.

Possible grades you can raise your 2.8 GPA to before graduation for seniors
Future Grades 1st Semester Completed 2nd Semester Completed
A 2.95 2.80
A- 2.91 2.80
B+ 2.86 2.80
B 2.82 2.80
B- 2.79 2.80
C+ 2.74 2.80
C 2.70 2.80
C- 2.66 2.80
D+ 2.61 2.80
D 2.57 2.80
D- 2.54 2.80
F 2.45 2.80
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GPA 2.8 Public Private 4 year

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List of 2.8 GPA Colleges

Displaying 105 colleges where your 2.8 GPA is within the typical range of past accepted students. You have a chance at being accepted but admission may be challenging at more selective colleges. Filter by admission chance for 213 target schools (good chance), 1,434 reach (harder) schools and 1,299 safety (easier) schools you can consider.

Alabama State University
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A
HBCU
Montgomery, AL

Alabama State University

Public 4 Year

2 reviews

2.95 Average GPA

#12 Best Public Universities in Alabama

  • 3,828enrollment
  • $13,176net price
  • 97%acceptance rate
  • 828-1041SAT range
  • 16-20ACT range
Your 2.8 GPA
Admission Chance96%

Applications Due Jul 31

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Texas Southern University
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T
HBCU
Houston, TX

Texas Southern University

Public 4 Year

3 reviews

3.0 Average GPA

#27 Best Public Universities in Texas

  • 8,632enrollment
  • $11,826net price
  • 97%acceptance rate
  • 820-1000SAT range
  • 15-19ACT range
Your 2.8 GPA
Admission Chance95%

Applications Due Jul 15

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Virginia State University
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V
HBCU
Petersburg, VA

Virginia State University

Public 4 Year

0 reviews

2.85 Average GPA

#14 Best Public Universities in Virginia

  • 4,648enrollment
  • $15,773net price
  • 90%acceptance rate
  • 830-1030SAT range
  • 14-17ACT range
Your 2.8 GPA
Admission Chance89%

Applications Due May 1

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Savannah State University
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S
HBCU
Savannah, GA

Savannah State University

Public 4 Year

3 reviews

2.77 Average GPA

#13 Best Public Universities in Georgia

  • 2,945enrollment
  • $9,452net price
  • 100%acceptance rate
  • 845-980SAT range
  • 15-19ACT range
Your 2.8 GPA

Applications Due Jul 15

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Albany State University
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A
HBCU
Albany, GA

Albany State University

Public 4 Year

2 reviews

2.77 Average GPA

#12 Best Public Universities in Georgia

  • 6,334enrollment
  • $14,672net price
  • 100%acceptance rate
  • 740-900SAT range
  • 15-18ACT range
Your 2.8 GPA

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Georgia Gwinnett College
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G
Lawrenceville, GA

Georgia Gwinnett College

Public 4 Year

3 reviews

2.88 Average GPA

 

  • 11,030enrollment
  • $10,981net price
  • 94%acceptance rate
  • 940-1170SAT range
  • 17-23ACT range
Your 2.8 GPA
Admission Chance93%

Applications Due May 3

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CUNY Queens College
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Q
Flushing, NY

CUNY Queens College

Public 4 Year

1 reviews

3.0 Average GPA

#17 Best Public Universities in New York

  • 17,001enrollment
  • $6,434net price
  • 69%acceptance rate
  • 1040-1190SAT range
  • 22-27ACT range
Your 2.8 GPA
Admission Chance58%

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Dean College
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D
Franklin, MA

Dean College

Private 4 Year

1 reviews

2.88 Average GPA

 

  • 1,189enrollment
  • $32,219net price
  • 76%acceptance rate
  • -SAT range
  • -ACT range
Your 2.8 GPA
Admission Chance72%

Applications Due Sep 1

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Norfolk State University
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N
HBCU
Norfolk, VA

Norfolk State University

Public 4 Year

0 reviews

2.9 Average GPA

#15 Best Public Universities in Virginia

  • 5,783enrollment
  • $14,652net price
  • 89%acceptance rate
  • 840-1040SAT range
  • 15-20ACT range
Your 2.8 GPA
Admission Chance86%

Applications Due May 31

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Fort Valley State University
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F
HBCU
Fort Valley, GA

Fort Valley State University

Public 4 Year

2 reviews

2.87 Average GPA

#11 Best Public Universities in Georgia

  • 2,605enrollment
  • $13,016net price
  • 43%acceptance rate
  • 810-950SAT range
  • 16-19ACT range
Your 2.8 GPA
Admission Chance39%

Applications Due Jun 15

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Central State University
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C
HBCU
Wilberforce, OH

Central State University

Public 4 Year

0 reviews

2.8 Average GPA

#12 Best Public Universities in Ohio

  • 5,434enrollment
  • $10,194net price
  • 89%acceptance rate
  • 770-950SAT range
  • 14-18ACT range
Your 2.8 GPA
Admission Chance89%

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SUNY College at Brockport
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B
Brockport, NY

SUNY College at Brockport

Public 4 Year

0 reviews

2.79 Average GPA

#18 Best Public Universities in New York

  • 6,424enrollment
  • $16,261net price
  • 68%acceptance rate
  • 1070-1240SAT range
  • 18-26ACT range
Your 2.8 GPA
Admission Chance69%

Applications Due Aug 1

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Shaw University
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S
HBCU
Raleigh, NC

Shaw University

Private 4 Year

0 reviews

2.6 Average GPA

 

  • 1,067enrollment
  • $14,204net price
  • 61%acceptance rate
  • -SAT range
  • -ACT range
Your 2.8 GPA
Admission Chance71%

Applications Due Jul 30

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Kentucky State University
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K
HBCU
Frankfort, KY

Kentucky State University

Public 4 Year

0 reviews

2.72 Average GPA

#7 Best Public Universities in Kentucky

  • 1,726enrollment
  • $11,473net price
  • 91%acceptance rate
  • 783-978SAT range
  • 14-20ACT range
Your 2.8 GPA
Admission Chance92%

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Clayton State University
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C
Morrow, GA

Clayton State University

Public 4 Year

1 reviews

3.0 Average GPA

#9 Best Public Universities in Georgia

  • 5,847enrollment
  • $9,792net price
  • 56%acceptance rate
  • 890-1090SAT range
  • 16-22ACT range
Your 2.8 GPA
Admission Chance44%

Applications Due Jul 17

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Huston Tillotson University
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H
HBCU
Austin, TX

Huston Tillotson University

Private 4 Year

1 reviews

2.92 Average GPA

 

  • 1,025enrollment
  • $21,069net price
  • 52%acceptance rate
  • 840-1000SAT range
  • 14-20ACT range
Your 2.8 GPA
Admission Chance45%

Applications Due May 1

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Paul Quinn College
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P
HBCU
Dallas, TX

Paul Quinn College

Private 4 Year

1 reviews

2.6 Average GPA

 

  • 938enrollment
  • $8,994net price
  • 57%acceptance rate
  • 855-1015SAT range
  • 14-17ACT range
Your 2.8 GPA
Admission Chance68%

Applications Due Jun 1

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SUNY College at Buffalo
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B
Buffalo, NY

SUNY College at Buffalo

Public 4 Year

0 reviews

2.84 Average GPA

#26 Best Public Universities in New York

  • 6,445enrollment
  • $13,812net price
  • 86%acceptance rate
  • 940-1178SAT range
  • -ACT range
Your 2.8 GPA
Admission Chance85%

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