Colleges for a 3.5 GPA

colleges that accept a 3.5 grade point average

What is a 3.5 GPA?

A 3.5 grade point average is a numerical representation of your course letter grades on a 4.0 scale. Your 3.5 GPA indicates you averaged B+ grades in your classes and delivered above average performance. The percent equivalent of a 3.5 grade point average is 88% on the percentage grading scale. This means that you scored an average of 88% on tests and assignments. GPA values for B+ letter grades range from 3.3 to 3.6. Your 3.5 GPA positions you in the middle of the B+ range, demonstrating you have likely earned a mix of A's (4.0) and B's (3.0). Learn more about what the B+ letter grade signifies.

Is a 3.5 GPA good?

A 3.5 demonstrates that you are a serious student, well prepared for many selective colleges and universities and is solidly above the the average U.S. high school GPA of 3.0. It indicates you've achieved a balance of A's and B's in your coursework, exemplifying a solid academic performance. 3.5 GPA is often seen as the benchmark for many academic scholarships, honors programs and many selective colleges. There are many large four-year colleges to choose from where a 3.5 is well within their typical GPA range and you will find yourself a strong applicant.

What colleges can I get into with a 3.5 GPA?

Graduating with a high school GPA of 3.5 places you within of the academic range at colleges like Florida State University, University of Miami and Arizona State University. Based on incoming freshman GPA data for U.S. schools, our analysis indicates that 811 colleges would consider your 3.5 GPA competitive. The most popular colleges, historically accepting students with GPAs within the range of 3.3 to 3.7 (3.5 +/- 0.2), are listed below. To view your chances of admission at each school, scroll down and explore the full list.

Cum Laude

Cum laude or "with distinction" is a Latin Honor awarded to graduates with high academic performance. The precise range for cum laude designation varies by school but is generally between a 3.5 and 3.6 GPA. As a result, a graduate with a 3.5 GPA typically qualifies for cum laude honors at graduation.

3.5 GPA honor roll

Many high schools have honor rolls which are published to recognize students with consistently high performance. The qualifications for getting on the honor roll vary from school to school. Frequently, a high and standard honor roll is established with different criteria, sometimes for students above 3.0, 3.5 or 3.75 GPAs. In most cases a 3.5 will get you on the honor roll.

Demographic Statistics

Let's examine how a 3.5 GPA stacks up to the national high school averages across various demographic groups

Gender

  • Male: A 3.5 is 0.5 points (17%) higher than the average male student GPA of 3.0
  • Female: A 3.5 is 0.3 points (8%) higher than the average female student GPA of 3.23

Race/ethnicity

  • White: A 3.5 is 0.3 points (8%) higher than the average white student GPA of 3.23
  • Black: A 3.5 is 0.7 points (24%) higher than the average black student GPA of 2.83
  • Hispanic: A 3.5 is 0.5 points (19%) higher than the average Hispanic student GPA of 2.95
  • Asian/Pacific Islander: A 3.5 is 0.1 points (3%) higher 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 3.5 GPA?

Consider the following tips to improve or maintain your 3.5 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 3.5 GPA?

The table below will help you see how high or low you can possibly change your GPA if you currently have a 3.5. 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 3.5 after first semester can still possibly raise their GPA as high as a 3.94 or drop it to a 0.44. 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 3.5 GPA to before graduation for freshmen
Future Grades 1st Semester Completed 2nd Semester Completed
A 3.94 3.88
A- 3.68 3.65
B+ 3.32 3.35
B 3.06 3.12
B- 2.80 2.90
C+ 2.45 2.60
C 2.19 2.38
C- 1.93 2.15
D+ 1.57 1.85
D 1.31 1.62
D- 1.05 1.40
F 0.44 0.88

Sophomores with a 3.5 after first semester can still raise their GPA as high as a 3.81 or see it fall to a 1.31. 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 3.5 GPA to before graduation for sophomores
Future Grades 1st Semester Completed 2nd Semester Completed
A 3.81 3.75
A- 3.62 3.60
B+ 3.38 3.40
B 3.19 3.25
B- 3.00 3.10
C+ 2.75 2.90
C 2.56 2.75
C- 2.38 2.60
D+ 2.12 2.40
D 1.94 2.25
D- 1.75 2.10
F 1.31 1.75

Juniors with a 3.5 after first semester can still raise their GPA to a 3.69 or lower it to a 2.19. 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 3.5 GPA to before graduation for juniors
Future Grades 1st Semester Completed 2nd Semester Completed
A 3.69 3.62
A- 3.58 3.55
B+ 3.42 3.45
B 3.31 3.38
B- 3.20 3.30
C+ 3.05 3.20
C 2.94 3.12
C- 2.83 3.05
D+ 2.67 2.95
D 2.56 2.88
D- 2.45 2.80
F 2.19 2.62

After first semester senior year your GPA is fairly locked in. A 3.5 can be raised a 3.56 or slip to a 3.06. 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 3.5 GPA to before graduation for seniors
Future Grades 1st Semester Completed 2nd Semester Completed
A 3.56 3.50
A- 3.52 3.50
B+ 3.48 3.50
B 3.44 3.50
B- 3.40 3.50
C+ 3.35 3.50
C 3.31 3.50
C- 3.27 3.50
D+ 3.23 3.50
D 3.19 3.50
D- 3.15 3.50
F 3.06 3.50
View Colleges

Colleges By Region

Change GPA

Explore colleges for other GPAs

-1 +1
GPA 3.5 Public Private 4 year

811 results nationwide

List of 3.5 GPA Colleges

Displaying 811 colleges where your 3.5 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 2,259 target schools (good chance), 783 reach (harder) schools and 2,142 safety (easier) schools you can consider.

Vanguard University of Southern California
Connect Me
V
Costa Mesa, CA
 

Vanguard University of Southern California

Private 4 Year

4 reviews

3.31 Average GPA

#30 Best Private Colleges in California

  • 2,256enrollment
  • $24,279net price
  • 75%acceptance rate
  • 980-1200SAT range
  • 19-25ACT range
Your 3.5 GPA
Admission Chance82%

Applications Due Aug 1

Compare Calculate my chances 
Indiana University Purdue University Fort Wayne
Connect Me
I
Fort Wayne, IN

Indiana University Purdue University Fort Wayne

Public 4 Year

0 reviews

3.37 Average GPA

#6 Best Public Universities in Indiana

  • 9,069enrollment
  • $11,951net price
  • 81%acceptance rate
  • 980-1210SAT range
  • 20-26ACT range
Your 3.5 GPA
Admission Chance85%

Applications Due Aug 1

Compare Calculate my chances 
Maryland Institute College of Art
Connect Me
M
Baltimore, MD

Maryland Institute College of Art

Private 4 Year

0 reviews

3.47 Average GPA

#4 Best Private Colleges in Maryland

  • 1,952enrollment
  • $43,545net price
  • 80%acceptance rate
  • 967-1362SAT range
  • 17-23ACT range
Your 3.5 GPA
Admission Chance81%

Applications Due Feb 1

Compare Calculate my chances 
State University of New York at New Paltz
Connect Me
S
New Paltz, NY

State University of New York at New Paltz

Public 4 Year

0 reviews

3.6 Average GPA

#9 Best Public Universities in New York

  • 6,964enrollment
  • $19,592net price
  • 58%acceptance rate
  • 1160-1340SAT range
  • 25-29ACT range
Your 3.5 GPA
Admission Chance52%

Applications Due Apr 1

Compare Calculate my chances 
The University of Texas at El Paso
Connect Me
T
El Paso, TX

The University of Texas at El Paso

Public 4 Year

0 reviews

3.3 Average GPA

#28 Best Public Universities in Texas

  • 23,880enrollment
  • $9,563net price
  • 100%acceptance rate
  • 870-1090SAT range
  • 16-22ACT range
Your 3.5 GPA
Admission Chance99%

Applications Due May 1

Compare Calculate my chances 
Colorado State University Pueblo
Connect Me
C
Pueblo, CO

Colorado State University Pueblo

Public 4 Year

0 reviews

3.3 Average GPA

#11 Best Public Universities in Colorado

  • 6,617enrollment
  • $13,033net price
  • 99%acceptance rate
  • 900-1150SAT range
  • 17-25ACT range
Your 3.5 GPA
Admission Chance99%

Applications Due Aug 1

Compare Calculate my chances 
Wentworth Institute of Technology
Connect Me
W
Boston, MA

Wentworth Institute of Technology

Private 4 Year

1 reviews

3.39 Average GPA

#24 Best Private Colleges in Massachusetts

  • 3,920enrollment
  • $37,901net price
  • 92%acceptance rate
  • 1120-1340SAT range
  • 25-31ACT range
Your 3.5 GPA
Admission Chance94%

Applications Due Feb 15

Compare Calculate my chances 
Northwestern College
Connect Me
N
Orange City, IA

Northwestern College

Private 4 Year

2 reviews

3.57 Average GPA

#9 Best Private Colleges in Iowa

  • 1,651enrollment
  • $25,198net price
  • 87%acceptance rate
  • 940-1240SAT range
  • 20-27ACT range
Your 3.5 GPA
Admission Chance85%

Compare Calculate my chances 
Penn State Harrisburg
Connect Me
P
Middletown, PA

Penn State Harrisburg

Public 4 Year

0 reviews

3.48 Estimated Average GPA

#8 Best Public Universities in Pennsylvania

  • 4,572enrollment
  • $22,096net price
  • 96%acceptance rate
  • 1100-1310SAT range
  • 24-28ACT range
Your 3.5 GPA
Admission Chance96%

Compare Calculate my chances 
Shenandoah University
Connect Me
S
Winchester, VA

Shenandoah University

Private 4 Year

0 reviews

3.7 Average GPA

#8 Best Private Colleges in Virginia

  • 4,260enrollment
  • $26,143net price
  • 80%acceptance rate
  • 1010-1230SAT range
  • 19-26ACT range
Your 3.5 GPA
Admission Chance71%

Applications Due Aug 1

Compare Calculate my chances 
Concordia University Texas
Connect Me
C
Austin, TX

Concordia University Texas

Private 4 Year

2 reviews

3.3 Average GPA

#25 Best Private Colleges in Texas

  • 1,863enrollment
  • $24,761net price
  • 86%acceptance rate
  • 1010-1190SAT range
  • -ACT range
Your 3.5 GPA
Admission Chance91%

Compare Calculate my chances 
Clark University
Connect Me
C
Worcester, MA

Clark University

Private 4 Year

0 reviews

3.69 Average GPA

#17 Best Private Colleges in Massachusetts

  • 3,770enrollment
  • $32,053net price
  • 50%acceptance rate
  • 1250-1430SAT range
  • 28-33ACT range
Your 3.5 GPA
Admission Chance39%

Applications Due Jan 15

Compare Calculate my chances 
University of Southern Mississippi
Connect Me
S
Hattiesburg, MS

University of Southern Mississippi

Public 4 Year

2 reviews

3.5 Average GPA

#5 Best Public Universities in Mississippi

  • 13,526enrollment
  • $14,427net price
  • 99%acceptance rate
  • -SAT range
  • 19-26ACT range
Your 3.5 GPA
Admission Chance99%

Compare Calculate my chances 
Roger Williams University
Connect Me
R
Bristol, RI

Roger Williams University

Private 4 Year

3 reviews

3.43 Average GPA

#6 Best Private Colleges in Rhode Island

  • 4,397enrollment
  • $37,964net price
  • 91%acceptance rate
  • 1120-1270SAT range
  • 25-31ACT range
Your 3.5 GPA
Admission Chance92%

Applications Due Feb 1

Compare Calculate my chances 
Milwaukee School of Engineering
Connect Me
M
Milwaukee, WI

Milwaukee School of Engineering

Private 4 Year

0 reviews

3.65 Average GPA

#3 Best Value Colleges in Wisconsin

  • 2,729enrollment
  • $25,661net price
  • 63%acceptance rate
  • 1160-1405SAT range
  • 24-30ACT range
Your 3.5 GPA
Admission Chance54%

Applications Due Sep 1

Compare Calculate my chances 
Soka University of America
Connect Me
S
Aliso Viejo, CA

Soka University of America

Private 4 Year

18 reviews

3.7 Average GPA

 

  • 455enrollment
  • $17,928net price
  • 57%acceptance rate
  • 1240-1440SAT range
  • -ACT range
Your 3.5 GPA
Admission Chance45%

Applications Due Jan 15

Compare Calculate my chances 
Fresno Pacific University
Connect Me
F
Fresno, CA

Fresno Pacific University

Private 4 Year

0 reviews

3.54 Average GPA

#28 Best Private Colleges in California

  • 3,032enrollment
  • $15,255net price
  • 75%acceptance rate
  • 970-1240SAT range
  • 17-24ACT range
Your 3.5 GPA
Admission Chance73%

Applications Due Aug 1

Compare Calculate my chances 
Union College
Connect Me
U
Schenectady, NY

Union College

Private 4 Year

1 reviews

3.5 Average GPA

#11 Best Private Colleges in New York

  • 2,107enrollment
  • $41,136net price
  • 47%acceptance rate
  • 1310-1490SAT range
  • 29-33ACT range
Your 3.5 GPA
Admission Chance47%

Applications Due Jan 15

Compare Calculate my chances