Colleges for a 3.6 GPA

colleges that accept a 3.6 grade point average

What is a 3.6 GPA?

A 3.6 grade point average is a numerical representation of your course letter grades on a 4.0 scale. Your 3.6 GPA indicates you averaged B+ grades in your classes and delivered above average performance. The percent equivalent of a 3.6 grade point average is 89% on the percentage grading scale. This means that you scored an average of 89% on tests and assignments. GPA values for B+ letter grades range from 3.3 to 3.6. Your 3.6 GPA positions you at the high end 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 3.6 GPA good?

A 3.6 beats the the average U.S. high school GPA of 3.1 by 0.5 points. You've earned mostly A's with some B's, showcasing consistently above-average academic performance. It indicates a strong understanding of the course material and good study habits. There are a many state and private colleges where a 3.6 is within the typical GPA range of accepted students. While a 3.6 is a bit low for highly selective colleges, it offers you a strong chance to get into many of the more selective schools in the U.S.

What colleges can I get into with a 3.6 GPA?

Graduating with a high school GPA of 3.6 places you within of the academic range at colleges like The University of Texas at Austin, Florida State University and Clemson University. Based on incoming freshman GPA data for U.S. schools, our analysis indicates that 713 colleges would consider your 3.6 GPA competitive. The most popular colleges, historically accepting students with GPAs within the range of 3.4 to 3.8 (3.6 +/- 0.2), are listed below. To view your chances of admission at each school, scroll down and explore the full list.

3.6 for Harvard and Ivy League

With a 3.6, you would usually need to rely on athletics, minority ethnicity, socioeconomic hardship or legacy status to have a chance getting into elite universities like Harvard and the Ivy League. A 3.6 is far below the average GPA that these schools usually accept. However, all of these elite colleges do admit a few students with 3.6's every year.

Here are the average GPAs and estimated chances for admission with a 3.6 at Ivy League and other prestigious colleges and universities.

  • Harvard - 4.0 average GPA / 1.2% chance
  • Princeton - 3.93 average GPA / 2.9% chance
  • Yale - 3.95 average GPA / 2.3% chance
  • Penn - 3.95 average GPA / 3.2% chance
  • Dartmouth - 3.9 average GPA / 3.1% chance
  • Brown - 3.94 average GPA / 2.3% chance
  • Cornell - 3.9 average GPA / 3.6% chance
  • Columbia - 3.91 average GPA / 2.0% chance
  • Stanford - 3.96 average GPA / 1.8% chance
  • MIT - 3.96 average GPA / 1.8% chance
  • Caltech - 3.97 average GPA / 1.3% chance

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 3.6 GPA typically qualifies for cum laude honors at graduation.

3.6 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 3.6 will get you on the honor roll.

Demographic Statistics

Let's examine how a 3.6 GPA stacks up to the national high school averages across various demographic groups

Gender

  • Male: A 3.6 is 0.6 points (20%) higher than the average male student GPA of 3.0
  • Female: A 3.6 is 0.4 points (11%) higher than the average female student GPA of 3.23

Race/ethnicity

  • White: A 3.6 is 0.4 points (11%) higher than the average white student GPA of 3.23
  • Black: A 3.6 is 0.8 points (27%) higher than the average black student GPA of 2.83
  • Hispanic: A 3.6 is 0.6 points (22%) higher than the average Hispanic student GPA of 2.95
  • Asian/Pacific Islander: A 3.6 is 0.2 points (6%) 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 3.6 GPA?

Consider the following tips to improve or maintain your 3.6 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 3.6 GPA?

The table below will help you see how high or low you can possibly change your GPA if you currently have a 3.6. 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 3.6 after first semester can still possibly raise their GPA as high as a 3.95 or drop it to a 0.45. 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 3.6 GPA to before graduation for freshmen
Future Grades 1st Semester Completed 2nd Semester Completed
A 3.95 3.90
A- 3.69 3.68
B+ 3.34 3.37
B 3.08 3.15
B- 2.81 2.93
C+ 2.46 2.62
C 2.20 2.40
C- 1.94 2.17
D+ 1.59 1.88
D 1.32 1.65
D- 1.06 1.42
F 0.45 0.90

Sophomores with a 3.6 after first semester can still raise their GPA as high as a 3.85 or see it fall to a 1.35. 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 3.6 GPA to before graduation for sophomores
Future Grades 1st Semester Completed 2nd Semester Completed
A 3.85 3.80
A- 3.66 3.65
B+ 3.41 3.45
B 3.23 3.30
B- 3.04 3.15
C+ 2.79 2.95
C 2.60 2.80
C- 2.41 2.65
D+ 2.16 2.45
D 1.98 2.30
D- 1.79 2.15
F 1.35 1.80

Juniors with a 3.6 after first semester can still raise their GPA to a 3.75 or lower it to a 2.25. 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 3.6 GPA to before graduation for juniors
Future Grades 1st Semester Completed 2nd Semester Completed
A 3.75 3.70
A- 3.64 3.62
B+ 3.49 3.53
B 3.38 3.45
B- 3.26 3.38
C+ 3.11 3.28
C 3.00 3.20
C- 2.89 3.12
D+ 2.74 3.03
D 2.62 2.95
D- 2.51 2.88
F 2.25 2.70

After first semester senior year your GPA is fairly locked in. A 3.6 can be raised a 3.65 or slip to a 3.15. 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 3.6 GPA to before graduation for seniors
Future Grades 1st Semester Completed 2nd Semester Completed
A 3.65 3.60
A- 3.61 3.60
B+ 3.56 3.60
B 3.52 3.60
B- 3.49 3.60
C+ 3.44 3.60
C 3.40 3.60
C- 3.36 3.60
D+ 3.31 3.60
D 3.27 3.60
D- 3.24 3.60
F 3.15 3.60
View Colleges

Colleges By Region

Change GPA

Explore colleges for other GPAs

-1 +1
GPA 3.6 Public Private 4 year

713 results nationwide

List of 3.6 GPA Colleges

Displaying 713 colleges where your 3.6 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 2,025 target schools (good chance), 456 reach (harder) schools and 2,580 safety (easier) schools you can consider.

The University of Texas at Austin
Connect Me
T
Austin, TX

The University of Texas at Austin

Public 4 Year

3 reviews

3.8 Estimated Average GPA

#14 Best Public Universities in America

  • 52,384enrollment
  • $17,434net price
  • 31%acceptance rate
  • 1230-1500SAT range
  • 26-33ACT range
Your 3.6 GPA
Admission Chance22%

Applications Due Dec 1

Compare Calculate my chances 
Florida State University
Connect Me
F
Tallahassee, FL

Florida State University

Public 4 Year

6 reviews

3.7 Estimated Average GPA

#3 Best Colleges in Florida

  • 44,161enrollment
  • $14,003net price
  • 25%acceptance rate
  • 1210-1370SAT range
  • 26-31ACT range
Your 3.6 GPA
Admission Chance21%

Applications Due Mar 1

Compare Calculate my chances 
Clemson University
Connect Me
C
Clemson, SC

Clemson University

Public 4 Year

9 reviews

3.75 Estimated Average GPA

#1 Best Public Universities in South Carolina

  • 28,466enrollment
  • $24,577net price
  • 43%acceptance rate
  • 1220-1410SAT range
  • 28-32ACT range
Your 3.6 GPA
Admission Chance35%

Applications Due May 1

Compare Calculate my chances 
University of Miami
Connect Me
M
Coral Gables, FL

University of Miami

Private 4 Year

14 reviews

3.7 Average GPA

#1 Best Private Colleges in Florida

  • 19,402enrollment
  • $36,467net price
  • 19%acceptance rate
  • 1310-1480SAT range
  • 30-33ACT range
Your 3.6 GPA
Admission Chance16%

Applications Due Jan 1

Compare Calculate my chances 
Arizona State University
Connect Me
A
Tempe, AZ

Arizona State University

Public 4 Year

5 reviews

3.54 Average GPA

#3 Best Colleges in Arizona

  • 80,065enrollment
  • $14,808net price
  • 90%acceptance rate
  • 1100-1320SAT range
  • 21-28ACT range
Your 3.6 GPA
Admission Chance91%

Compare Calculate my chances 
New York University
Connect Me
N
New York, NY

New York University

Private 4 Year

1 reviews

3.79 Average GPA

#6 Best Private Colleges in New York

  • 59,144enrollment
  • $29,499net price
  • 12%acceptance rate
  • 1470-1570SAT range
  • 33-35ACT range
Your 3.6 GPA
Admission Chance8%

Compare Calculate my chances 
Michigan State University
Connect Me
S
East Lansing, MI

Michigan State University

Public 4 Year

6 reviews

3.72 Average GPA

#3 Best Colleges in Michigan

  • 50,023enrollment
  • $22,803net price
  • 88%acceptance rate
  • 1160-1360SAT range
  • 25-31ACT range
Your 3.6 GPA
Admission Chance85%

Compare Calculate my chances 
The University of Alabama
Connect Me
A
Tuscaloosa, AL

The University of Alabama

Public 4 Year

7 reviews

3.76 Average GPA

#3 Best Colleges in Alabama

  • 38,644enrollment
  • $20,592net price
  • 80%acceptance rate
  • 1130-1410SAT range
  • 23-31ACT range
Your 3.6 GPA
Admission Chance73%

Applications Due May 1

Compare Calculate my chances 
University of Central Florida
Connect Me
C
Orlando, FL

University of Central Florida

Public 4 Year

6 reviews

3.64 Estimated Average GPA

#3 Best Public Universities in Florida

  • 68,346enrollment
  • $13,108net price
  • 41%acceptance rate
  • 1200-1360SAT range
  • 25-29ACT range
Your 3.6 GPA
Admission Chance39%

Applications Due May 1

Compare Calculate my chances 
Boston University
Connect Me
B
Boston, MA

Boston University

Private 4 Year

9 reviews

3.79 Average GPA

#9 Best Private Colleges in Massachusetts

  • 36,714enrollment
  • $27,829net price
  • 14%acceptance rate
  • 1350-1500SAT range
  • 31-34ACT range
Your 3.6 GPA
Admission Chance9%

Applications Due Jan 4

Compare Calculate my chances 
Ohio State University
Connect Me
O
Columbus, OH

Ohio State University

Public 4 Year

6 reviews

3.76 Estimated Average GPA

#1 Best Public Universities in Ohio

  • 60,540enrollment
  • $19,582net price
  • 53%acceptance rate
  • 1310-1480SAT range
  • 29-32ACT range
Your 3.6 GPA
Admission Chance44%

Applications Due Feb 1

Compare Calculate my chances 
University of California Irvine
Connect Me
C
Irvine, CA

University of California Irvine

Public 4 Year

2 reviews

3.75 Estimated Average GPA

#10 Best Public Universities in America

  • 35,937enrollment
  • $14,033net price
  • 21%acceptance rate
  • 1230-1430SAT range
  • 26-33ACT range
Your 3.6 GPA
Admission Chance16%

Applications Due Nov 30

Compare Calculate my chances 
Baylor University
Connect Me
B
Waco, TX

Baylor University

Private 4 Year

14 reviews

3.74 Estimated Average GPA

#5 Best Private Colleges in Texas

  • 20,709enrollment
  • $45,988net price
  • 46%acceptance rate
  • 1230-1410SAT range
  • 28-33ACT range
Your 3.6 GPA
Admission Chance38%

Applications Due Feb 1

Compare Calculate my chances 
The University of Tennessee
Connect Me
T
Knoxville, TN

The University of Tennessee

Public 4 Year

4 reviews

3.66 Estimated Average GPA

#1 Best Public Universities in Tennessee

  • 33,805enrollment
  • $21,880net price
  • 68%acceptance rate
  • 1170-1330SAT range
  • 25-31ACT range
Your 3.6 GPA
Admission Chance65%

Compare Calculate my chances 
University of Kentucky
Connect Me
K
Lexington, KY

University of Kentucky

Public 4 Year

2 reviews

3.59 Average GPA

#2 Best Public Universities in Kentucky

  • 31,547enrollment
  • $18,693net price
  • 95%acceptance rate
  • 1070-1290SAT range
  • 21-28ACT range
Your 3.6 GPA
Admission Chance95%

Applications Due Feb 15

Compare Calculate my chances 
Purdue University Main Campus
Connect Me
P
West Lafayette, IN

Purdue University Main Campus

Public 4 Year

5 reviews

3.67 Average GPA

#15 Best Public Universities in America

  • 51,528enrollment
  • $12,576net price
  • 53%acceptance rate
  • 1200-1470SAT range
  • 27-34ACT range
Your 3.6 GPA
Admission Chance49%

Compare Calculate my chances 
Texas A&M University College Station
Connect Me
T
College Station, TX

Texas A&M University College Station

Public 4 Year

6 reviews

3.68 Estimated Average GPA

#21 Best Public Universities in America

  • 74,014enrollment
  • $20,375net price
  • 63%acceptance rate
  • 1150-1390SAT range
  • 25-31ACT range
Your 3.6 GPA
Admission Chance59%

Applications Due Dec 1

Compare Calculate my chances 
University of Hawaii at Manoa
Connect Me
H
Honolulu, HI

University of Hawaii at Manoa

Public 4 Year

2 reviews

3.67 Average GPA

#1 Best Value in Hawaii

  • 19,074enrollment
  • $13,639net price
  • 73%acceptance rate
  • 1070-1290SAT range
  • 18-24ACT range
Your 3.6 GPA
Admission Chance70%

Compare Calculate my chances