Western Colleges for a 3.2 GPA

Western colleges that accept a 3.2 grade point average

What is a 3.2 GPA?

A 3.2 grade point average is a numerical representation of your course letter grades on a 4.0 scale. Your 3.2 GPA indicates you averaged B grades in your classes and delivered average performance. The percent equivalent of a 3.2 grade point average is 86% on the percentage grading scale. This means that you scored an average of 86% on tests and assignments. GPA values for B letter grades range from 3.0 to 3.2. Your 3.2 GPA positions you at the high end of the B range, demonstrating you have likely earned a mix of B+'s (3.3) and B's (3.0). Learn more about what the B letter grade signifies.

Is a 3.2 GPA good?

A 3.2 is a bit higher than the average U.S. high school GPA of 3.1, and about equal to the average GPA for college-bound students. It demonstrates that you've earned mostly B's with some A's, indicating an above-average academic performance. You will have a challenge getting into the more selective colleges as a 3.2 falls short of the GPA they are looking for. However, a 3.2 is competitive for many colleges and universities.

What colleges can I get into with a 3.2 GPA?

Graduating with a high school GPA of 3.2 places you within of the academic range at Western colleges like San Jose State University, San Francisco State University and California State University Los Angeles. Based on incoming freshman GPA data for Western schools, our analysis indicates that 60 colleges would consider your 3.2 GPA competitive. The most popular colleges, historically accepting students with GPAs within the range of 3.0 to 3.4 (3.2 +/- 0.2), are listed below. To view your chances of admission at each school, scroll down and explore the full list.

Demographic Statistics

Let's examine how a 3.2 GPA stacks up to the national high school averages across various demographic groups

Gender

  • Male: A 3.2 is 0.2 points (7%) higher than the average male student GPA of 3.0
  • Female: A 3.2 is 0 points (1%) lower than the average female student GPA of 3.23

Race/ethnicity

  • White: A 3.2 is 0 points (1%) lower than the average white student GPA of 3.23
  • Black: A 3.2 is 0.4 points (13%) higher than the average black student GPA of 2.83
  • Hispanic: A 3.2 is 0.2 points (8%) higher than the average Hispanic student GPA of 2.95
  • Asian/Pacific Islander: A 3.2 is 0.2 points (6%) 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 3.2 GPA?

Consider the following tips to improve or maintain your 3.2 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 3.2 GPA?

The table below will help you see how high or low you can possibly change your GPA if you currently have a 3.2. 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.

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60 results

List of 3.2 GPA Colleges

Displaying 60 colleges where your 3.2 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 138 target schools (good chance), 255 reach (harder) schools and 288 safety (easier) schools you can consider.

San Jose State University
S
San Jose, CA

San Jose State University

Public 4 Year

3 reviews

3.35 Estimated Average GPA

#13 Best Public Universities in California

  • 35,751enrollment
  • $14,219net price
  • 77%acceptance rate
  • 1010-1240SAT range
  • 19-26ACT range
Your 3.2 GPA
Admission Chance70%

Applications Due Dec 15

San Francisco State University
S
San Francisco, CA

San Francisco State University

Public 4 Year

1 reviews

3.31 Average GPA

#18 Best Public Universities in California

  • 25,282enrollment
  • $13,267net price
  • 94%acceptance rate
  • 930-1130SAT range
  • 16-23ACT range
Your 3.2 GPA
Admission Chance92%

Applications Due Nov 30

California State University Los Angeles
C
Los Angeles, CA

California State University Los Angeles

Public 4 Year

0 reviews

3.31 Average GPA

#26 Best Public Universities in California

  • 26,460enrollment
  • $5,801net price
  • 87%acceptance rate
  • 870-1060SAT range
  • 15-20ACT range
Your 3.2 GPA
Admission Chance84%

Applications Due Jan 19

Boise State University
B
Boise, ID

Boise State University

Public 4 Year

0 reviews

3.37 Estimated Average GPA

#2 Best Public Universities in Idaho

  • 26,115enrollment
  • $17,724net price
  • 84%acceptance rate
  • 1030-1210SAT range
  • 21-26ACT range
Your 3.2 GPA
Admission Chance78%

Applications Due Aug 1

California State University East Bay
C
Hayward, CA

California State University East Bay

Public 4 Year

0 reviews

3.2 Average GPA

 

  • 13,673enrollment
  • $11,464net price
  • 96%acceptance rate
  • -SAT range
  • -ACT range
Your 3.2 GPA
Admission Chance96%

Applications Due Oct 1

University of Nevada Las Vegas
N
Las Vegas, NV

University of Nevada Las Vegas

Public 4 Year

3 reviews

3.4 Average GPA

#2 Best Colleges in Nevada

  • 30,660enrollment
  • $13,159net price
  • 85%acceptance rate
  • 1000-1220SAT range
  • 18-24ACT range
Your 3.2 GPA
Admission Chance78%

Applications Due Jun 1

California State University Chico
C
Chico, CA

California State University Chico

Public 4 Year

0 reviews

3.37 Average GPA

#15 Best Public Universities in California

  • 14,183enrollment
  • $15,517net price
  • 95%acceptance rate
  • 970-1170SAT range
  • 18-24ACT range
Your 3.2 GPA
Admission Chance93%

Applications Due Dec 15

Portland State University
P
Portland, OR

Portland State University

Public 4 Year

0 reviews

3.36 Average GPA

#4 Best Public Universities in Oregon

  • 21,609enrollment
  • $16,273net price
  • 93%acceptance rate
  • 1000-1250SAT range
  • 17-24ACT range
Your 3.2 GPA
Admission Chance90%

California State University Fresno
C
Fresno, CA

California State University Fresno

Public 4 Year

2 reviews

3.12 Estimated Average GPA

#23 Best Public Universities in California

  • 23,999enrollment
  • $7,507net price
  • 95%acceptance rate
  • 890-1100SAT range
  • 16-21ACT range
Your 3.2 GPA
Admission Chance96%

Applications Due Dec 15

Sonoma State University
S
Rohnert Park, CA

Sonoma State University

Public 4 Year

0 reviews

3.4 Average GPA

#16 Best Public Universities in California

  • 6,637enrollment
  • $15,507net price
  • 94%acceptance rate
  • 950-1150SAT range
  • 17-23ACT range
Your 3.2 GPA
Admission Chance91%

University of Colorado Colorado Springs
C
Colorado Springs, CO

University of Colorado Colorado Springs

Public 4 Year

0 reviews

3.36 Average GPA

#5 Best Public Universities in Colorado

  • 11,431enrollment
  • $16,990net price
  • 85%acceptance rate
  • 1015-1215SAT range
  • 21-28ACT range
Your 3.2 GPA
Admission Chance80%

California State University Northridge
C
Northridge, CA

California State University Northridge

Public 4 Year

1 reviews

3.38 Average GPA

#24 Best Public Universities in California

  • 37,579enrollment
  • $8,936net price
  • 91%acceptance rate
  • 900-1110SAT range
  • 16-22ACT range
Your 3.2 GPA
Admission Chance87%

Applications Due Nov 30

California State University San Marcos
C
San Marcos, CA

California State University San Marcos

Public 4 Year

0 reviews

3.32 Average GPA

#20 Best Public Universities in California

  • 15,109enrollment
  • $10,463net price
  • 95%acceptance rate
  • 950-1130SAT range
  • 17-22ACT range
Your 3.2 GPA
Admission Chance93%

Applications Due Nov 30

Humboldt State University
H
Arcata, CA

Humboldt State University

Public 4 Year

0 reviews

3.33 Average GPA

#19 Best Public Universities in California

  • 6,025enrollment
  • $14,325net price
  • 98%acceptance rate
  • 970-1190SAT range
  • 17-25ACT range
Your 3.2 GPA
Admission Chance97%

Applications Due Apr 30

Brigham Young University Idaho
B
Rexburg, ID

Brigham Young University Idaho

Private 4 Year

4 reviews

3.34 Estimated Average GPA

#3 Best Private Colleges in Idaho

  • 43,023enrollment
  • $7,899net price
  • 96%acceptance rate
  • 990-1200SAT range
  • 19-25ACT range
Your 3.2 GPA
Admission Chance95%

Applications Due Feb 15

Adams State College
A
Alamosa, CO

Adams State College

Public 4 Year

0 reviews

3.2 Average GPA

#10 Best Public Universities in Colorado

  • 2,854enrollment
  • $13,224net price
  • 99%acceptance rate
  • 910-1130SAT range
  • 15-26ACT range
Your 3.2 GPA
Admission Chance99%

University of La Verne
L
La Verne, CA

University of La Verne

Private 4 Year

0 reviews

3.24 Average GPA

#21 Best Private Colleges in California

  • 5,662enrollment
  • $25,103net price
  • 74%acceptance rate
  • 970-1303SAT range
  • 18-25ACT range
Your 3.2 GPA
Admission Chance72%

Metropolitan State College of Denver
M
Denver, CO

Metropolitan State College of Denver

Public 4 Year

0 reviews

3.03 Average GPA

#12 Best Public Universities in Colorado

  • 16,995enrollment
  • $14,805net price
  • 98%acceptance rate
  • 910-1130SAT range
  • 16-23ACT range
Your 3.2 GPA
Admission Chance99%

Applications Due Jul 1