Colleges for a 3.8 GPA

colleges that accept a 3.8 grade point average

What is a 3.8 GPA?

A 3.8 grade point average is a numerical representation of your course letter grades on a 4.0 scale. Your 3.8 GPA indicates you averaged A- grades in your classes and delivered excellent performance. The percent equivalent of a 3.8 grade point average is 91% on the percentage grading scale. This means that you scored an average of 91% on tests and assignments. GPA values for A- letter grades range from 3.7 to 3.9. Your 3.8 GPA positions you in the middle of the A- range, demonstrating you have likely earned almost all A's (4.0) with a few B's (3.0). Learn more about what the A- letter grade signifies.

Is a 3.8 GPA good?

A 3.8 is very close of the highest possible GPA on the 4.0 scale. It shows that you've primarily achieved A's and a few B's or A-'s, demonstrating a high level of academic accomplishment. This puts you in a strong position for acceptance at many prestigious colleges and is likely to attract the attention of college recruiters.

What colleges can I get into with a 3.8 GPA?

Graduating with a high school GPA of 3.8 places you within of the academic range at colleges like Harvard University, Stanford University and University of Florida. Based on incoming freshman GPA data for U.S. schools, our analysis indicates that 452 colleges would consider your 3.8 GPA competitive. The most popular colleges, historically accepting students with GPAs within the range of 3.6 to 4.0 (3.8 +/- 0.2), are listed below. To view your chances of admission at each school, scroll down and explore the full list.

3.8 for Harvard and Ivy League

A 3.8 is a bit below the average that Harvard or Ivy League schools usually accept. However, all of these elite colleges do admit some students with 3.8's every year. You would need to stand out in other ways with very high SATs, ACTs, AP classes, extracurricular activities, volunteer work and a compelling essay.

Here are the average GPAs and estimated chances for admission with a 3.8 at Ivy League and other prestigious colleges and universities.

  • Harvard - 4.0 average GPA / 1.9% chance
  • Princeton - 3.93 average GPA / 4.5% chance
  • Yale - 3.95 average GPA / 3.6% chance
  • Penn - 3.95 average GPA / 5.0% chance
  • Dartmouth - 3.9 average GPA / 4.8% chance
  • Brown - 3.94 average GPA / 3.6% chance
  • Cornell - 3.9 average GPA / 5.6% chance
  • Columbia - 3.91 average GPA / 3.1% chance
  • Stanford - 3.96 average GPA / 2.8% chance
  • MIT - 3.96 average GPA / 2.8% chance
  • Caltech - 3.97 average GPA / 2.0% chance

Magna Cum Laude

Magna cum laude or "with great distinction" is the second highest Latin Honor. It is awarded to graduates with the very high academic performance. The exact range for magna cum laude varies by college or high school but is generally between a 3.7 and 3.8 GPA. As a result, a graduate with a 3.8 GPA is typically eligible for the magna cum laude distinction.

3.8 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 3.8 will get you on the honor roll.

Demographic Statistics

Let's examine how a 3.8 GPA stacks up to the national high school averages across various demographic groups

Gender

  • Male: A 3.8 is 0.8 points (27%) higher than the average male student GPA of 3.0
  • Female: A 3.8 is 0.6 points (18%) higher than the average female student GPA of 3.23

Race/ethnicity

  • White: A 3.8 is 0.6 points (18%) higher than the average white student GPA of 3.23
  • Black: A 3.8 is 1 points (34%) higher than the average black student GPA of 2.83
  • Hispanic: A 3.8 is 0.8 points (29%) higher than the average Hispanic student GPA of 2.95
  • Asian/Pacific Islander: A 3.8 is 0.4 points (12%) 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 3.8 GPA?

Consider the following tips to improve or maintain your 3.8 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 3.8 GPA?

The table below will help you see how high or low you can possibly change your GPA if you currently have a 3.8. 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 3.8 after first semester can still possibly raise their GPA as high as a 3.98 or drop it to a 0.47. 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 3.8 GPA to before graduation for freshmen
Future Grades 1st Semester Completed 2nd Semester Completed
A 3.98 3.95
A- 3.71 3.73
B+ 3.36 3.42
B 3.10 3.20
B- 2.84 2.98
C+ 2.49 2.67
C 2.23 2.45
C- 1.96 2.22
D+ 1.61 1.93
D 1.35 1.70
D- 1.09 1.47
F 0.47 0.95

Sophomores with a 3.8 after first semester can still raise their GPA as high as a 3.92 or see it fall to a 1.42. 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 3.8 GPA to before graduation for sophomores
Future Grades 1st Semester Completed 2nd Semester Completed
A 3.92 3.90
A- 3.74 3.75
B+ 3.49 3.55
B 3.30 3.40
B- 3.11 3.25
C+ 2.86 3.05
C 2.67 2.90
C- 2.49 2.75
D+ 2.24 2.55
D 2.05 2.40
D- 1.86 2.25
F 1.42 1.90

Juniors with a 3.8 after first semester can still raise their GPA to a 3.88 or lower it to a 2.38. 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 3.8 GPA to before graduation for juniors
Future Grades 1st Semester Completed 2nd Semester Completed
A 3.88 3.85
A- 3.76 3.77
B+ 3.61 3.67
B 3.50 3.60
B- 3.39 3.52
C+ 3.24 3.42
C 3.12 3.35
C- 3.01 3.27
D+ 2.86 3.17
D 2.75 3.10
D- 2.64 3.02
F 2.38 2.85

After first semester senior year your GPA is fairly locked in. A 3.8 can be raised a 3.82 or slip to a 3.32. 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 3.8 GPA to before graduation for seniors
Future Grades 1st Semester Completed 2nd Semester Completed
A 3.82 3.80
A- 3.79 3.80
B+ 3.74 3.80
B 3.70 3.80
B- 3.66 3.80
C+ 3.61 3.80
C 3.57 3.80
C- 3.54 3.80
D+ 3.49 3.80
D 3.45 3.80
D- 3.41 3.80
F 3.32 3.80
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GPA 3.8 Public Private 4 year

452 results nationwide

List of 3.8 GPA Colleges

Displaying 452 colleges where your 3.8 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 1,200 target schools (good chance), 138 reach (harder) schools and 3,777 safety (easier) schools you can consider.

St Lawrence University
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S
Canton, NY

St Lawrence University

Private 4 Year

1 reviews

3.6 Average GPA

#17 Best Private Colleges in New York

  • 2,175enrollment
  • $33,283net price
  • 63%acceptance rate
  • 1240-1410SAT range
  • 29-32ACT range
Your 3.8 GPA
Admission Chance73%

Applications Due Feb 1

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Indiana Wesleyan University
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I
Marion, IN

Indiana Wesleyan University

Private 4 Year

0 reviews

3.61 Average GPA

#6 Best Private Colleges in Indiana

  • 2,603enrollment
  • $21,755net price
  • 87%acceptance rate
  • 1000-1190SAT range
  • 21-27ACT range
Your 3.8 GPA
Admission Chance91%

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Susquehanna University
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S
Selinsgrove, PA

Susquehanna University

Private 4 Year

0 reviews

3.67 Average GPA

#27 Best Private Colleges in Pennsylvania

  • 2,231enrollment
  • $28,605net price
  • 77%acceptance rate
  • 1088-1280SAT range
  • 23-30ACT range
Your 3.8 GPA
Admission Chance82%

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William Peace University
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W
Raleigh, NC

William Peace University

Private 4 Year

2 reviews

3.67 Average GPA

 

  • 713enrollment
  • $23,041net price
  • 63%acceptance rate
  • 1033-1151SAT range
  • 19-27ACT range
Your 3.8 GPA
Admission Chance70%

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University of Wisconsin La Crosse
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W
La Crosse, WI

University of Wisconsin La Crosse

Public 4 Year

0 reviews

3.6 Average GPA

#2 Best Public Universities in Wisconsin

  • 10,274enrollment
  • $13,130net price
  • 74%acceptance rate
  • -SAT range
  • 22-26ACT range
Your 3.8 GPA
Admission Chance82%

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Birmingham Southern College
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B
Birmingham, AL

Birmingham Southern College

Private 4 Year

0 reviews

3.72 Average GPA

 

  • 975enrollment
  • $21,153net price
  • 57%acceptance rate
  • 1150-1280SAT range
  • 22-29ACT range
Your 3.8 GPA
Admission Chance62%

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West Texas A & M University
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W
Canyon, TX

West Texas A & M University

Public 4 Year

1 reviews

3.61 Average GPA

#18 Best Public Universities in Texas

  • 9,242enrollment
  • $17,001net price
  • 92%acceptance rate
  • 950-1150SAT range
  • 18-23ACT range
Your 3.8 GPA
Admission Chance95%

Applications Due Aug 1

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University of Montevallo
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M
Montevallo, AL

University of Montevallo

Public 4 Year

1 reviews

3.66 Average GPA

#5 Best Public Universities in Alabama

  • 2,586enrollment
  • $17,421net price
  • 60%acceptance rate
  • 970-1200SAT range
  • 19-26ACT range
Your 3.8 GPA
Admission Chance68%

Applications Due Aug 15

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Arkansas State University Main Campus
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A
Jonesboro, AR

Arkansas State University Main Campus

Public 4 Year

0 reviews

3.66 Average GPA

#4 Best Public Universities in Arkansas

  • 13,190enrollment
  • $12,011net price
  • 70%acceptance rate
  • 980-1200SAT range
  • 19-25ACT range
Your 3.8 GPA
Admission Chance76%

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LeTourneau University
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L
Longview, TX

LeTourneau University

Private 4 Year

3 reviews

3.66 Average GPA

#9 Best Private Colleges in Texas

  • 3,536enrollment
  • $26,974net price
  • 49%acceptance rate
  • 1120-1380SAT range
  • 20-29ACT range
Your 3.8 GPA
Admission Chance57%

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Pitzer College
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P
Claremont, CA

Pitzer College

Private 4 Year

0 reviews

3.93 Average GPA

 

  • 1,212enrollment
  • $39,809net price
  • 18%acceptance rate
  • -SAT range
  • -ACT range
Your 3.8 GPA
Admission Chance14%

Applications Due Jan 1

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University of Detroit Mercy
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D
Detroit, MI

University of Detroit Mercy

Private 4 Year

0 reviews

3.67 Average GPA

#6 Best Private Colleges in Michigan

  • 5,360enrollment
  • $18,197net price
  • 91%acceptance rate
  • 960-1208SAT range
  • 21-26ACT range
Your 3.8 GPA
Admission Chance93%

Applications Due Mar 1

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Otterbein University
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O
Westerville, OH

Otterbein University

Private 4 Year

0 reviews

3.66 Average GPA

#21 Best Private Colleges in Ohio

  • 2,458enrollment
  • $22,661net price
  • 84%acceptance rate
  • 1035-1260SAT range
  • 20-27ACT range
Your 3.8 GPA
Admission Chance88%

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Lee University
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L
Cleveland, TN

Lee University

Private 4 Year

0 reviews

3.73 Average GPA

#16 Best Private Colleges in Tennessee

  • 3,927enrollment
  • $19,726net price
  • 73%acceptance rate
  • 1010-1240SAT range
  • 19-27ACT range
Your 3.8 GPA
Admission Chance76%

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Mount Holyoke College
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M
South Hadley, MA

Mount Holyoke College

Private 4 Year

0 reviews

3.87 Average GPA

#10 Best Private Colleges in Massachusetts

  • 2,392enrollment
  • $35,765net price
  • 40%acceptance rate
  • 1350-1540SAT range
  • 30-34ACT range
Your 3.8 GPA
Admission Chance36%

Applications Due Jan 15

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Dominican University
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D
River Forest, IL

Dominican University

Private 4 Year

0 reviews

3.74 Average GPA

#19 Best Private Colleges in Illinois

  • 3,196enrollment
  • $18,162net price
  • 90%acceptance rate
  • 890-1140SAT range
  • 16-22ACT range
Your 3.8 GPA
Admission Chance91%

Applications Due Aug 31

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Capital University
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C
Columbus, OH

Capital University

Private 4 Year

0 reviews

3.63 Average GPA

#22 Best Private Colleges in Ohio

  • 2,617enrollment
  • $24,439net price
  • 72%acceptance rate
  • 960-1186SAT range
  • 18-24ACT range
Your 3.8 GPA
Admission Chance79%

Applications Due May 1

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Hanover College
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H
Hanover, IN

Hanover College

Private 4 Year

1 reviews

3.79 Average GPA

#9 Best Private Colleges in Indiana

  • 1,124enrollment
  • $26,599net price
  • 74%acceptance rate
  • 1090-1270SAT range
  • 24-29ACT range
Your 3.8 GPA
Admission Chance74%

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