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
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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.

Alma College
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A
Alma, MI

Alma College

Private 4 Year

0 reviews

3.5 Average GPA

 

  • 1,260enrollment
  • $23,995net price
  • 65%acceptance rate
  • -SAT range
  • -ACT range
Your 3.5 GPA
Admission Chance65%

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Mary Baldwin College
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M
Staunton, VA

Mary Baldwin College

Private 4 Year

0 reviews

3.57 Average GPA

#18 Best Private Colleges in Virginia

  • 1,957enrollment
  • $18,746net price
  • 100%acceptance rate
  • 940-1120SAT range
  • 18-24ACT range
Your 3.5 GPA

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Limestone University
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L
Gaffney, SC
 

Limestone University

Private 4 Year

0 reviews

3.42 Average GPA

#8 Best Private Colleges in South Carolina

  • 1,786enrollment
  • $23,478net price
  • 89%acceptance rate
  • 980-1160SAT range
  • 19-25ACT range
Your 3.5 GPA
Admission Chance91%

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Gallaudet University
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G
Washington, DC

Gallaudet University

Private 4 Year

0 reviews

3.3 Average GPA

#1 Best Value Colleges in District Of Columbia

  • 1,322enrollment
  • $13,787net price
  • 59%acceptance rate
  • 752-1089SAT range
  • 14-20ACT range
Your 3.5 GPA
Admission Chance70%

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University of Michigan Flint
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M
Flint, MI

University of Michigan Flint

Public 4 Year

0 reviews

3.54 Average GPA

#8 Best Public Universities in Michigan

  • 5,985enrollment
  • $10,840net price
  • 66%acceptance rate
  • 930-1220SAT range
  • 21-28ACT range
Your 3.5 GPA
Admission Chance64%

Applications Due Aug 22

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Marywood University
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M
Scranton, PA

Marywood University

Private 4 Year

0 reviews

3.58 Average GPA

#44 Best Private Colleges in Pennsylvania

  • 2,729enrollment
  • $22,504net price
  • 81%acceptance rate
  • 1030-1200SAT range
  • 18-26ACT range
Your 3.5 GPA
Admission Chance78%

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University of Hawaii West Oahu
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H
Pearl City, HI

University of Hawaii West Oahu

Public 4 Year

1 reviews

3.41 Average GPA

 

  • 2,913enrollment
  • $9,103net price
  • 96%acceptance rate
  • 1040-1180SAT range
  • 16-22ACT range
Your 3.5 GPA
Admission Chance97%

Applications Due Jul 1

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Warren Wilson College
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W
Swannanoa, NC
 

Warren Wilson College

Private 4 Year

1 reviews

3.6 Average GPA

 

  • 793enrollment
  • $28,086net price
  • 84%acceptance rate
  • -SAT range
  • 21-29ACT range
Your 3.5 GPA
Admission Chance81%

Applications Due Jul 3

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Arkansas Tech University
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A
Russellville, AR

Arkansas Tech University

Public 4 Year

0 reviews

3.37 Average GPA

#6 Best Public Universities in Arkansas

  • 9,445enrollment
  • $12,016net price
  • 94%acceptance rate
  • 990-1180SAT range
  • 17-24ACT range
Your 3.5 GPA
Admission Chance96%

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George Fox University
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G
Newberg, OR

George Fox University

Private 4 Year

0 reviews

3.7 Average GPA

#6 Best Private Colleges in Oregon

  • 4,028enrollment
  • $28,840net price
  • 92%acceptance rate
  • 1020-1290SAT range
  • 22-28ACT range
Your 3.5 GPA
Admission Chance88%

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McKendree University
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M
Lebanon, IL

McKendree University

Private 4 Year

0 reviews

3.38 Average GPA

#23 Best Private Colleges in Illinois

  • 1,960enrollment
  • $22,431net price
  • 68%acceptance rate
  • 871-1277SAT range
  • 18-28ACT range
Your 3.5 GPA
Admission Chance74%

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Wartburg College
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W
Waverly, IA
 

Wartburg College

Private 4 Year

0 reviews

3.48 Average GPA

#11 Best Private Colleges in Iowa

  • 1,444enrollment
  • $23,683net price
  • 97%acceptance rate
  • 970-1120SAT range
  • 19-25ACT range
Your 3.5 GPA
Admission Chance97%

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University of Louisiana at Lafayette
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L
Lafayette, LA

University of Louisiana at Lafayette

Public 4 Year

1 reviews

3.4 Average GPA

#4 Best Public Universities in Louisiana

  • 15,219enrollment
  • $13,036net price
  • 75%acceptance rate
  • 1023-1198SAT range
  • 19-24ACT range
Your 3.5 GPA
Admission Chance79%

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Bethel College Mishawaka
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B
Mishawaka, IN
 

Bethel College Mishawaka

Private 4 Year

3 reviews

3.46 Average GPA

#18 Best Private Colleges in Indiana

  • 1,292enrollment
  • $18,746net price
  • 99%acceptance rate
  • 800-920SAT range
  • -ACT range
Your 3.5 GPA
Admission Chance99%

Applications Due Aug 15

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Texas A&M University Galveston
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T
Galveston, Texas

Texas A&M University Galveston

Public 4 Year

0 reviews

3.44 Estimated Average GPA

 

  • 2,034enrollment
  • -net price
  • 55%acceptance rate
  • 1100-1270SAT range
  • 22-26ACT range
Your 3.5 GPA
Admission Chance58%

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University of Saint Francis Fort Wayne
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S
Fort Wayne, IN
 

University of Saint Francis Fort Wayne

Private 4 Year

2 reviews

3.37 Average GPA

#15 Best Private Colleges in Indiana

  • 1,903enrollment
  • $18,162net price
  • 98%acceptance rate
  • 930-1130SAT range
  • 18-24ACT range
Your 3.5 GPA
Admission Chance99%

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Columbia International University
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C
Columbia, SC
 

Columbia International University

Private 4 Year

0 reviews

3.5 Average GPA

#5 Best Private Colleges in South Carolina

  • 2,481enrollment
  • $19,911net price
  • 48%acceptance rate
  • 990-1195SAT range
  • 16-25ACT range
Your 3.5 GPA
Admission Chance48%

Applications Due Aug 1

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Webster University
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W
Saint Louis, MO

Webster University

Private 4 Year

2 reviews

3.64 Average GPA

#4 Best Private Colleges in Missouri

  • 6,396enrollment
  • $23,069net price
  • 55%acceptance rate
  • 1026-1315SAT range
  • 19-27ACT range
Your 3.5 GPA
Admission Chance47%

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