125 Colleges That Accept a 3.8 GPA

A 3.8 GPA places you well above the national average, where most students sit closer to 3.3. With 3.8 on your transcript, you already show colleges that you manage demanding work and keep your grades steady across multiple years.

A 3.8 GPA gives you a wide range of college options, including many selective public universities and several private institutions with competitive admissions. Your chances depend on course rigor, grade trends, and how the rest of your application supports your academic record.

In this guide, you’ll find 125 colleges that accept a 3.8 GPA, plus practical context to help you understand what this GPA means for your college list, how competitive you are, and how to strengthen your application strategy.

Is a 3.8 GPA Good?

A 3.8 GPA is an excellent achievement. Typically, this GPA translates to an A- average or around 90-92% on the percentage scale. For many colleges, a 3.8 GPA indicates you’re well-prepared for the academic rigors of college-level work. 

Colleges value applicants who stay disciplined from year to year, and your GPA suggests you do exactly that. It also signals preparation for college-level work, especially if your schedule includes honors, AP, IB, or dual-enrollment courses.

How “good” a 3.8 GPA feels can change depending on your college list. At many selective public universities and strong private colleges, a 3.8 falls within the typical range for admitted students. At more competitive schools, your essays, course rigor, and activities will matter just as much as the number itself.

Your GPA gives you a strong foundation. The rest of your application now helps colleges understand the student behind that 3.8 and the kind of contribution you plan to make on campus.

How Colleges Evaluate a 3.8 GPA

A 3.8 GPA is strong, but the way colleges interpret that number depends on how your high school reports grades. Most schools send both an unweighted and weighted GPA, and each one tells colleges something different about your performance and the level of challenge in your schedule.

Unweighted GPA (Standard 4.0 Scale)

This version shows your raw letter grades without any extra points for difficulty.

• A = 4.0
• B = 3.0
• C = 2.0

A 3.8 unweighted GPA tells colleges that you earned mostly A’s and A- grades in your core classes. When this GPA comes from a schedule with honors, AP, IB, or dual-enrollment courses, it shows mastery without relying on weighted points.

Many universities prefer the unweighted number because it offers a fair comparison across different schools and grading systems.

Weighted GPA (4.5 or 5.0 Scale)

Weighted GPAs give extra credit for advanced courses. Students taking AP, IB, or honors classes often see their GPA exceed 4.0.

For example, on a 5.0 scale:

• A in AP/IB class = 5.0
• A in standard class = 4.0

A 3.8 weighted GPA may reflect a mix of advanced and standard courses. Because weighting varies widely between schools, many colleges recalculate GPAs using their own method.

The University of California system is a well-known example. UC campuses compute a “UC GPA” based only on 10th and 11th-grade academic courses and add fixed honors points for approved classes.

What Colleges Can You Get Into With a 3.8 GPA?

Most admitted students at selective public universities and a wide range of private institutions fall between 3.6 and 3.9, so your GPA fits well within that range.

With this academic profile, you can target competitive campuses, solid match schools, and several selective options depending on your test scores, your course rigor, and the major you plan to pursue.

To help you build a realistic and informed list, here are 125 colleges where a 3.8 GPA is competitive based on recent admission data, average GPA ranges, and acceptance rates.

#	State	College Name	Location	Average GPA	Acceptance Rate	Average SAT	Average ACT	Net Price
1	AK	University of Alaska Fairbanks	Fairbanks, AK	3.8	82%	1150	24	$10,617
2	AL	University of Alabama	Tuscaloosa, AL	3.8	80%	1220	27	$20,465
3	AL	Auburn University	Auburn, AL	3.8	81%	1250	28	$24,028
4	AL	University of Alabama, Birmingham	Birmingham, AL	3.8	80%	1230	26	$16,978
5	AR	University of Arkansas	Fayetteville, AR	3.8	78%	1200	26	$16,759
6	AZ	Arizona State University	Tempe, AZ	3.8	88%	1210	25	$14,653
7	AZ	University of Arizona	Tucson, AZ	3.8	85%	1190	25	$15,600
8	CA	University of California, Davis	Davis, CA	3.8	49%	1310	28	$17,026
9	CA	University of California, Irvine	Irvine, CA	3.8	29%	1340	30	$15,268
10	CA	University of California, San Diego	La Jolla, CA	3.8	34%	1360	30	$14,616
11	CA	University of California, Santa Barbara	Santa Barbara, CA	3.8	37%	1320	29	$17,223
12	CA	University of Southern California	Los Angeles, CA	3.8	16%	1440	32	$36,161
13	CA	University of California, Riverside	Riverside, CA	3.8	66%	1230	26	$13,746
14	CA	Santa Clara University	Santa Clara, CA	3.8	51.00%	1330	29	$36,360
15	CO	University of Colorado Boulder	Boulder, CO	3.8	84%	1280	27	$21,034
16	CO	University of Denver	Denver, CO	3.8	61%	1250	27	$33,012
17	CO	Colorado State University	Fort Collins, CO	3.8	81%	1190	25	$17,609
18	CO	Colorado School of Mines	Golden, CO	3.8	57.00%	1360	31	$27,675
19	CT	University of Connecticut	Storrs, CT	3.8	56%	1290	29	$24,845
20	CT	Trinity College	Hartford, CT	3.8	33.00%	1330	30	$31,974
21	DC	American University	Washington, DC	3.8	39%	1300	29	$36,097
22	DE	University of Delaware	Newark, DE	3.8	63%	1270	27	$17,290
23	FL	University of Florida	Gainesville, FL	3.8	31%	1370	30	$11,407
24	FL	Florida State University	Tallahassee, FL	3.8	36%	1320	28	$13,318
25	FL	University of Miami	Coral Gables, FL	3.8	33%	1350	30	$33,102
26	FL	University of South Florida	Tampa, FL	3.8	49%	1250	27	$8,346
27	FL	Florida International University	Miami, FL	3.8	64%	1190	25	$9,180
28	FL	University of Central Florida	Orlando, FL	3.8	45%	1270	27	$11,594
29	GA	Georgia Institute of Technology	Atlanta, GA	3.8	21%	1460	32	$16,883
30	GA	University of Georgia	Athens, GA	3.8	45%	1320	30	$16,888
31	GA	Emory University	Atlanta, GA	3.8	16%	1440	32	$27,845
32	GA	Mercer University	Macon, GA	3.8	72.00%	1260	27	$21,331
33	HI	University of Hawaii at Manoa	Honolulu, HI	3.8	59%	1170	25	$14,571
34	IA	University of Iowa	Iowa City, IA	3.8	84%	1210	26	$15,195
35	IA	Iowa State University	Ames, IA	3.8	88%	1210	25	$16,105
36	IL	University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign	Urbana-Champaign, IL	3.8	63%	1320	29	$14,272
37	IL	DePaul University	Chicago, IL	3.8	70%	1220	25	$31,605
38	IL	Loyola University Chicago	Chicago, IL	3.8	71%	1210	26	$36,388
39	IL	Illinois Institute of Technology	Chicago, IL	3.8	61%	1310	29	$26,474
40	IN	Indiana University Bloomington	Bloomington, IN	3.8	80%	1230	27	$13,191
41	IN	University of Notre Dame	Notre Dame, IN	3.8	19.00%	1430	32	$29,981
42	KS	University of Kansas	Lawrence, KS	3.8	91%	1200	26	$18,510
43	KY	University of Kentucky	Lexington, KY	3.8	95%	1190	25	$19,861
44	KY	University of Louisville	Louisville, KY	3.8	67%	1200	25	$17,894
45	KY	Bellarmine University	Louisville, KY	3.8	82%	1160	24	$22,413
46	LA	Louisiana State University	Baton Rouge, LA	3.8	73%	1220	26	$19,224
47	LA	Tulane University	New Orleans, LA	3.8	13%	1420	31	$40,783
48	MA	University of Massachusetts Amherst	Amherst, MA	3.8	64%	1300	28	$22,339
49	MA	Boston College	Chestnut Hill, MA	3.8	26%	1420	32	$30,192
50	MA	Northeastern University	Boston, MA	3.8	18%	1450	32	$29,587
51	MA	Clark University	Worcester, MA	3.8	45%	1290	28	$28,847
52	MA	Brandeis University	Waltham, MA	3.8	34%	1380	31	$33,287
53	MD	University of Maryland	College Park, MD	3.8	51%	1370	30	$16,790
54	MD	University of Maryland, Baltimore County	Baltimore, MD	3.8	69%	1280	28	$16,868
55	ME	University of Maine	Orono, ME	3.8	92%	1160	24	$15,233
56	MI	University of Michigan	Ann Arbor, MI	3.8	20%	1430	33	$17,832
57	MI	Michigan State University	East Lansing, MI	3.8	76%	1210	27	$17,867
58	MI	Calvin University	Grand Rapids, MI	3.8	73%	1240	26	$26,482
59	MN	University of Minnesota	Minneapolis, MN	3.8	70%	1300	28	$16,691
60	MO	University of Missouri	Columbia, MO	3.8	81%	1210	26	$17,059
61	MO	Saint Louis University	St. Louis, MO	3.8	56%	1280	28	$27,891
62	MS	University of Mississippi	Oxford, MS	3.8	88%	1150	24	$13,672
63	MT	University of Montana	Missoula, MT	3.8	94%	1130	23	$14,123
64	MT	Montana State University	Bozeman, MT	3.8	82%	1190	25	$17,855
65	NC	University of North Carolina Chapel Hill	Chapel Hill, NC	3.8	25%	1380	31	$11,100
66	NC	Duke University	Durham, NC	3.8	8%	1490	34	$28,131
67	NC	Elon University	Elon, NC	3.8	72%	1250	26	$39,071
68	ND	North Dakota State University	Fargo, ND	3.8	94%	1150	24	$15,286
69	ND	University of North Dakota	Grand Forks, ND	3.8	81%	1140	23	$17,443
70	NE	University of Nebraska	Lincoln, NE	3.8	79.00%	1190	25	$17,219
71	NE	University of Nebraska Omaha	Omaha, NE	3.8	82%	1140	23	$12,844
72	NE	Creighton University	Omaha, NE	3.8	64%	1270	27	$31,317
73	NH	University of New Hampshire	Durham, NH	3.8	84%	1220	26	$23,786
74	NH	Dartmouth College	Hanover, NH	3.8	9%	1450	32	$22,303
75	NJ	Rutgers University	New Brunswick, NJ	3.8	61.00%	1300	29	$17,835
76	NJ	Princeton University	Princeton, NJ	3.8	6%	1500	34	$20,908
77	NJ	Stevens Institute of Technology	Hoboken, NJ	3.8	53%	1390	31	$38,469
78	NJ	The College of New Jersey	Ewing, NJ	3.8	49%	1300	29	$22,049
79	NM	University of New Mexico	Albuquerque, NM	3.8	94%	1160	24	$12,200
80	NV	University of Nevada, Reno	Reno, NV	3.8	88.00%	1170	25	$14,236
81	NY	Marist College	Poughkeepsie, NY	3.8	49.00%	1260	27	$35,215
82	NY	Syracuse University	Syracuse, NY	3.8	59%	1280	28	$47,177
83	NY	Stony Brook University	Stony Brook, NY	3.8	48%	1300	28	$15,605
84	OH	Ohio State University	Columbus, OH	3.8	53%	1300	28	$18,694
85	OH	Ohio University	Athens, OH	3.8	87%	1180	24	$18,684
86	OH	Miami University	Oxford, OH	3.8	80%	1280	28	$22,399
87	OK	University of Oklahoma	Norman, OK	3.8	80%	1220	26	$21,837
88	OK	Oklahoma State University	Stillwater, OK	3.8	70%	1160	24	$14,763
89	OK	University of Tulsa	Tulsa, OK	3.8	41%	1300	28	$25,759
90	OR	University of Oregon	Eugene, OR	3.8	83.00%	1230	26	$19,703
91	OR	Willamette University	Salem, OR	3.8	80.00%	1240	27	$36,103
92	OR	Oregon State University	Corvallis, OR	3.8	83%	1230	26	$19,205
93	PA	University of Pennsylvania	Philadelphia, PA	3.8	9%	1480	34	$23,624
94	PA	Penn State University	University Park, PA	3.8	56.00%	1280	28	$24,220
95	PA	University of Pittsburgh	Pittsburgh, PA	3.8	64%	1320	29	$22,710
96	PA	Lafayette College	Easton, PA	3.8	36%	1350	30	$29,073
97	PA	Lehigh University	Bethlehem, PA	3.8	32%	1370	31	$30,125
98	RI	Brown University	Providence, RI	3.8	7.00%	1470	34	$23,734
99	RI	University of Rhode Island	Kingston, RI	3.8	75%	1210	25	$20,835
100	SC	University of South Carolina	Columbia, SC	3.8	68%	1270	27	$21,787
101	SC	Clemson University	Clemson, SC	3.8	49.00%	1300	28	$19,508
102	SC	Furman University	Greenville, SC	3.8	57%	1310	29	$38,226
103	SD	University of South Dakota	Vermillion, SD	3.8	86%	1160	24	$17,541
104	TN	University of Tennessee	Knoxville, TN	3.8	79%	1220	27	$21,232
105	TN	Belmont University	Nashville, TN	3.8	83%	1230	26	$35,891
106	TX	Texas A&M University	College Station, TX	3.8	63.00%	1280	28	$20,735
107	TX	University of Texas at Austin	Austin, TX	3.8	32.00%	1340	30	$14,156
108	TX	Baylor University	Waco, TX	3.8	57%	1290	28	$38,372
109	TX	Southern Methodist University	Dallas, TX	3.8	53%	1380	31	$39,444
110	TX	Trinity University	San Antonio, TX	3.8	34%	1340	30	$30,675
111	UT	University of Utah	Salt Lake City, UT	3.8	78.00%	1260	27	$12,128
112	UT	Brigham Young University	Provo, UT	3.8	68%	1290	29	$13,120
113	VA	University of Virginia	Charlottesville, VA	3.8	21.00%	1400	32	$19,651
114	VA	Virginia Tech	Blacksburg, VA	3.8	64.00%	1300	28	$18,653
115	VA	College of William & Mary	Williamsburg, VA	3.8	37%	1350	31	$19,978
116	VT	University of Vermont	Burlington, VT	3.8	67%	1230	27	$21,937
117	VT	Middlebury College	Middlebury, VT	3.8	15%	1420	32	$26,775
118	WA	University of Washington	Seattle, WA	3.8	53.00%	1330	29	$10,603
119	WA	Washington State University	Pullman, WA	3.8	80.00%	1180	25	$17,497
120	WA	Seattle University	Seattle, WA	3.8	83%	1270	27	$33,628
121	WI	University of Wisconsin-Madison	Madison, WI	3.8	54.00%	1340	29	$18,660
122	WI	Marquette University	Milwaukee, WI	3.8	82%	1270	27	$34,071
123	WV	West Virginia University	Morgantown, WV	3.8	87.00%	1150	24	$12,181
124	WV	Marshall University	Huntington, WV	3.8	91%	1150	24	$8,958
125	WY	University of Wyoming	Laramie, WY	3.8	96%	1150	24	$11,090

Detailed Profiles of the Top 25 Colleges that Accept a 3.8 GPA

These profiles give you more than numbers. You’ll see what each campus is known for, how a 3.8 GPA fits into its admissions picture, and a few details that matter when you start building a realistic list and scholarship strategy.

1. University of Alabama

The University of Alabama is known for strong business, engineering, and communications programs alongside a big, spirited campus culture. With a 3.8 GPA, you sit in a solid match range here and can be a competitive applicant for many majors.

• Location: Alabama
• Acceptance Rate: 80%
• Average GPA: 3.8
• Average ACT Composite: 27
• Average SAT Composite: 1260
• Average Net Price: $20,917
• Number of Students: 38,000

High-achieving students often consider the Honors College and competitive merit scholarships, especially if test scores also stand out. Alabama can be a smart option if you want a balance of major Division I sports, active student life, and clear pathways into business, engineering, or pre-law.

2. University of Arizona

The University of Arizona offers strong programs in science, engineering, and health fields, with a heavy emphasis on research and innovation. A 3.8 GPA places you comfortably within the typical academic range for admitted students, especially if you also show strength in math and lab sciences.

• Location: Arizona
• Acceptance Rate: 87%
• Average GPA: 3.8
• Average ACT Composite: 25
• Average SAT Composite: 1205
• Average Net Price: $15,620
• Number of Students: 45,000

Students with stronger profiles can explore the Honors College, which offers smaller classes and priority advising. Arizona’s size and research focus can be a good fit if you want access to labs, health-related opportunities, and a large network across the Southwest and beyond.

3. University of Arkansas

The University of Arkansas is especially recognized for business, architecture, and engineering, supported by a tight campus community in Fayetteville. With a 3.8 GPA, you’re well positioned as a strong match applicant for most programs.

• Location: Arkansas
• Acceptance Rate: 82%
• Average GPA: 3.8
• Average ACT Composite: 27
• Average SAT Composite: 1210
• Average Net Price: $16,759
• Number of Students: 29,000

Arkansas offers notable opportunities through its business school and alumni network, particularly in the region. If you pair your GPA with solid test scores and a focused application, you can also be competitive for campus scholarships and honors options.

4. University of Connecticut (UConn)

UConn, the state’s flagship university, has strong programs in business, engineering, and several pre-professional tracks. A 3.8 GPA typically places you in a competitive spot for admission, particularly if you’ve taken rigorous courses in core subjects.

• Location: Connecticut
• Acceptance Rate: 56%
• Average GPA: 3.8
• Average ACT Composite: 30
• Average SAT Composite: 1315
• Average Net Price: $23,047
• Number of Students: 32,000

UConn’s Honors Program and specialized business pathways can be especially attractive for higher-achieving students. If you’re interested in research or internships in the Northeast, the combination of your GPA and strong coursework can help you stand out for these more selective tracks.

5. University of Georgia (UGA)

The University of Georgia is known for competitive business, public affairs, and agricultural programs, along with a very active campus life in Athens. With a 3.8 GPA, you align closely with many admitted students, especially if your transcript shows strength in math, science, and writing.

• Location: Georgia
• Acceptance Rate: 48%
• Average GPA: 3.8
• Average ACT Composite: 30
• Average SAT Composite: 1350
• Average Net Price: $16,580
• Number of Students: 39,000

UGA’s Honors Program, major scholarships, and Georgia’s state aid programs can make it particularly appealing for high-achieving in-state students. If you combine your 3.8 GPA with strong test scores and focused activities, you can be a competitive candidate for selective majors and enriched academic tracks.

6. Indiana University Bloomington

Many students target Indiana University Bloomington for the Kelley School of Business and its strong arts and sciences core. With a 3.8 GPA, you sit in a solid match range here, especially if your transcript already includes advanced math and writing courses.

• Location: Indiana
• Acceptance Rate: 85%
• Average GPA: 3.8
• Average ACT Composite: 28
• Average SAT Composite: 1270
• Average Net Price: $13,767
• Number of Students: 45,000

Kelley’s direct admit pathways, study abroad options, and strong recruiting from major firms can make IU a smart choice if you’re business-focused. Students aiming for honors and more selective majors benefit from pairing a 3.8 GPA with clear leadership or work experience tied to their intended field.

7. University of Iowa

Students who care about writing, healthcare, or business often place the University of Iowa on their list. A 3.8 GPA positions you well within the typical academic profile, particularly if you’ve taken solid English and science coursework.

• Location: Iowa
• Acceptance Rate: 84%
• Average GPA: 3.8
• Average ACT Composite: 27
• Average SAT Composite: 1240
• Average Net Price: $17,452
• Number of Students: 31,000

The Iowa Writers’ Workshop shapes a broader campus culture that values communication and storytelling, which can help if you enjoy English or creative work. Honors, pre-med pathways, and research ties with the university hospital give strong students several ways to build a clear pre-professional track.

8. University of Kansas

Students drawn to law, business, and the sciences often see the University of Kansas as a practical flagship option. With a 3.8 GPA, you’re a competitive applicant and can treat KU as a likely admit at most majors.

• Location: Kansas
• Acceptance Rate: 93%
• Average GPA: 3.8
• Average ACT Composite: 26
• Average SAT Composite: 1245
• Average Net Price: $18,043
• Number of Students: 28,000

KU’s Honors Program, scholarships for high-achieving students, and a walkable campus in Lawrence create a strong value proposition, especially for in-state applicants. If you’re interested in law or public service later on, using your 3.8 to access honors-level advising can help you plan internships and research early.

9. University of Kentucky

Students who want a mix of healthcare, engineering, and business options often look closely at the University of Kentucky. A 3.8 GPA places you in an excellent position for admission and can make several majors, including pre-health tracks, realistic targets.

• Location: Kentucky
• Acceptance Rate: 95%
• Average GPA: 3.8
• Average ACT Composite: 26
• Average SAT Composite: 1230
• Average Net Price: $19,375
• Number of Students: 29,000

With strong ties to regional hospitals and a growing research profile, Kentucky offers clear paths into nursing, pre-med, and related fields. Your GPA can also help you qualify for institutional aid and honors-level opportunities, which matter if you hope to keep costs manageable while still accessing smaller, more rigorous classes.

10. University of Massachusetts Amherst (UMass)

Students interested in business, computer science, and research opportunities often shortlist UMass Amherst as a top public choice in New England. A 3.8 GPA fits well with the academic expectations for many majors, especially if you’ve built that record on a demanding STEM and humanities schedule.

• Location: Massachusetts
• Acceptance Rate: 65%
• Average GPA: 3.8
• Average ACT Composite: 30
• Average SAT Composite: 1335
• Average Net Price: $22,505
• Number of Students: 32,000

UMass’s Honors College, strong CS and Isenberg School of Management programs, and access to the Five College Consortium can add significant value for high-achieving students. With your GPA, you can realistically aim for honors consideration and set yourself up for internships and research experiences early in your college career.

11. Michigan State University

Students who want a broad mix of majors often see Michigan State as a practical and balanced option. A 3.8 GPA places you in a strong position here, especially if your transcript shows strength in math, science, and writing.

• Location: Michigan
• Acceptance Rate: 88%
• Average GPA: 3.8
• Average ACT Composite: 27
• Average SAT Composite: 1240
• Average Net Price: $16,655
• Number of Students: 50,000

MSU’s residential college model, strong agricultural research centers, and pre-health advising give high-achieving students clear academic pathways. Your GPA can also help you access competitive merit scholarships and entry into the Honors College, which offers smaller classes and faculty mentorship.

12. University of Minnesota, Twin Cities

Many students target the University of Minnesota for engineering, business, and public health due to its strong research output. A 3.8 GPA aligns well with the typical admitted range, especially in majors that expect solid math and science preparation.

• Location: Minnesota
• Acceptance Rate: 73%
• Average GPA: 3.8
• Average ACT Composite: 28
• Average SAT Composite: 1320
• Average Net Price: $18,723
• Number of Students: 50,000

The College of Science and Engineering is more selective, so pairing your GPA with strong coursework helps your chances. Honors opportunities, industry connections in the Twin Cities, and access to major research labs make Minnesota a high-value option for academically driven applicants.

13. University of Mississippi (Ole Miss)

Students who want a traditional campus environment with strong liberal arts, business, and law pathways often consider Ole Miss. A 3.8 GPA places you in a strong safety-to-match range for many programs.

• Location: Mississippi
• Acceptance Rate: 88%
• Average GPA: 3.8
• Average ACT Composite: 25
• Average SAT Composite: 1210
• Average Net Price: $13,537
• Number of Students: 22,000

High-achieving students often explore the Sally McDonnell Barksdale Honors College, which offers close faculty mentoring and undergraduate research access. Your GPA can also help secure competitive merit awards, which significantly lower costs for both in-state and out-of-state students.

14. University of Missouri (Mizzou)

Students interested in journalism, business, or public affairs often put Mizzou high on their list. A 3.8 GPA fits well with the academic profile for most majors, including those with more selective entry expectations.

• Location: Missouri
• Acceptance Rate: 82%
• Average GPA: 3.8
• Average ACT Composite: 26
• Average SAT Composite: 1240
• Average Net Price: $16,930
• Number of Students: 30,000

The Missouri School of Journalism, one of the oldest in the country, offers extensive hands-on experience through campus media outlets. With your GPA, you can be competitive for honors programs and scholarships that support research, internships, and global study opportunities.

15. University of Nebraska-Lincoln

Nebraska-Lincoln draws students with strong agriculture, engineering, and business interests, supported by an active campus community. A 3.8 GPA places you comfortably within the typical admissions range.

• Location: Nebraska
• Acceptance Rate: 81%
• Average GPA: 3.8
• Average ACT Composite: 25
• Average SAT Composite: 1210
• Average Net Price: $17,341
• Number of Students: 25,000

UNL’s honors programs, faculty-led research, and ties to regional industries give high-achieving students many ways to build a professional track early. Your GPA helps you qualify for competitive merit awards that can significantly reduce overall cost.

16. University of Oklahoma

Energy, engineering, and public service shape much of the academic culture at the University of Oklahoma. With a 3.8 GPA, you fall into a strong match range for many majors, especially if you already handle math and science coursework well.

• Location: Oklahoma
• Acceptance Rate: 80%
• Average GPA: 3.8
• Average ACT Composite: 26
• Average SAT Composite: 1225
• Average Net Price: $21,836
• Number of Students: 28,000

Honors programs, undergraduate research, and ties to the regional energy industry can give you early access to hands-on experience. If you plan for law, energy, or engineering careers, using your GPA to target honors advising and competitive scholarships is a smart move.

17. University of Oregon

Strong programs in journalism, business, and environmental studies make the University of Oregon stand out, especially for students interested in media or sustainability. A 3.8 GPA typically places you in a comfortable match zone, particularly if you show strength in writing and social science courses.

• Location: Oregon
• Acceptance Rate: 82%
• Average GPA: 3.8
• Average ACT Composite: 25
• Average SAT Composite: 1220
• Average Net Price: $17,646
• Number of Students: 23,000

The School of Journalism and Communication, access to internships in the Pacific Northwest, and strong study abroad options offer clear ways to build a focused profile. Your GPA can also help you compete for the Honors College and merit awards that add extra academic support and smaller class sizes.

18. University of Tennessee

In Knoxville, the University of Tennessee combines business, engineering, and law-related pathways with a classic flagship campus feel. A 3.8 GPA fits well with the expectations for many programs and keeps competitive majors within reach.

• Location: Tennessee
• Acceptance Rate: 79%
• Average GPA: 3.8
• Average ACT Composite: 27
• Average SAT Composite: 1255
• Average Net Price: $21,162
• Number of Students: 29,000

The Haslam College of Business, strong engineering options, and connections to regional employers give you practical routes into internships and co-ops. With your GPA, you can also aim for honors opportunities that prioritize faculty mentoring and more rigorous coursework.

19. Texas A&M University

Leadership, engineering, and agriculture sit at the center of Texas A&M’s identity, backed by a very large and active campus community. With a 3.8 GPA, you are competitive for many programs, though some engineering pathways may still feel closer to match-plus-reach territory.

• Location: Texas
• Acceptance Rate: 63%
• Average GPA: 3.8
• Average ACT Composite: 29
• Average SAT Composite: 1260
• Average Net Price: $20,375
• Number of Students: 72,000

The Aggie Network, undergraduate research, and structured honors and scholars programs offer strong long-term benefits for focused students. If you want engineering or business, combining your GPA with strong math preparation and clear activities related to those fields can help you stand out in a very large applicant pool.

20. University of Utah

Healthcare, engineering, and business pathways at the University of Utah are supported by a growing research profile and access to Salt Lake City’s professional hubs. A 3.8 GPA positions you well as a match candidate across many majors.

• Location: Utah
• Acceptance Rate: 79%
• Average GPA: 3.8
• Average ACT Composite: 26
• Average SAT Composite: 1235
• Average Net Price: $12,881
• Number of Students: 33,000

Honors options, partnerships with nearby hospitals, and a strong outdoor and recreation culture can give you a balanced college experience. Your GPA helps you compete for enriched academic tracks and scholarships, which matter if you want smaller seminars within a public research setting.

21. University of Vermont (UVM)

Environmental science, health fields, and the liberal arts sit at the center of UVM’s academic identity. With a 3.8 GPA, you fall into a strong match range here, especially if your transcript shows solid science and writing preparation.

• Location: Vermont
• Acceptance Rate: 67%
• Average GPA: 3.8
• Average ACT Composite: 30
• Average SAT Composite: 1300
• Average Net Price: $21,096
• Number of Students: 13,000

Honors options, research tied to climate and environment, and access to local hospitals give high-achieving students concrete ways to build a pre-health or policy-driven profile. Your GPA also helps you compete for merit aid, which matters given UVM’s appeal to both in-state and out-of-state applicants.

22. University of Washington (UW)

Strong engineering, computer science, and health programs make UW a frequent target for academically driven students. With a 3.8 GPA, you are competitive for admission overall, though the most selective majors can still feel reach-level.

• Location: Washington
• Acceptance Rate: 53%
• Average GPA: 3.8
• Average ACT Composite: 29
• Average SAT Composite: 1330
• Average Net Price: $9,661
• Number of Students: 48,000

Direct-to-major admission in areas like computer science and engineering raises the bar, so pairing your GPA with rigorous STEM coursework is important. Research labs, Seattle tech connections, and honors tracks give you strong opportunities if you want early experience in industry or graduate-level work.

23. West Virginia University (WVU)

Healthcare, engineering, and business pipelines draw many applicants to WVU, alongside its very active campus life. A 3.8 GPA places you in a strong safety-to-match range for most majors.

• Location: West Virginia
• Acceptance Rate: 89%
• Average GPA: 3.8
• Average ACT Composite: 24
• Average SAT Composite: 1190
• Average Net Price: $13,793
• Number of Students: 26,000

Honors programs, ties to regional health systems, and funded research projects make WVU more appealing for high-achieving students than its admit rate alone suggests. Your GPA can position you well for competitive scholarships and specialized advising that shape a clearer academic and career path.

24. University of Wisconsin–Madison

Many students target Wisconsin–Madison for its strength in engineering, business, and life sciences, backed by a serious research culture. With a 3.8 GPA, you are in a realistic match range, especially if your record shows consistent rigor.

• Location: Wisconsin
• Acceptance Rate: 60%
• Average GPA: 3.8
• Average ACT Composite: 30
• Average SAT Composite: 1325
• Average Net Price: $14,030
• Number of Students: 45,000

Some majors, including engineering and certain business pathways, admit at higher academic thresholds, so strong math and science preparation helps. Honors programs, campus research centers, and Madison’s role as a state capital create strong internship and policy-related opportunities for focused applicants.

25. University of Wyoming

Smaller class sizes and strong agriculture, business, and engineering options define much of the academic experience at the University of Wyoming. A 3.8 GPA places you in an excellent safety range here, which can be helpful for building a balanced list.

• Location: Wyoming
• Acceptance Rate: 97%
• Average GPA: 3.8
• Average ACT Composite: 25
• Average SAT Composite: 1225
• Average Net Price: $12,224
• Number of Students: 12,000

Affordable tuition, close faculty contact, and access to field-based research appeal to students who prefer a quieter setting with clear academic support. Your GPA can also open doors to honors and scholarship possibilities that significantly reduce cost and increase access to smaller, more advanced seminars.

How to Improve Your Admissions Chances with a 3.8 GPA

Even though a 3.8 GPA puts you in a competitive position, there are several ways you can further boost your chances of acceptance. You’ve done most of the hard part already, so now we’ll make the most of your achievements.

1. Challenge Yourself With the Right Courses

Colleges care about what you took, not just how you scored.

If you still have time left in high school, look at your next schedule with three questions in mind:

• Are you taking the hardest classes you can handle in core subjects?
• Are you building a clear path toward your intended major?
• Are you keeping your GPA steady or trending up?

If your school offers honors, AP, IB, A-levels, or dual-enrollment, lean into those options in:

• English and history
• Math
• Lab sciences
• World language

If you attend a school with fewer advanced options, you still have ways to show rigor:

• Dual-enrollment at a local college
• Approved online courses through accredited providers
• Self-study for selected AP exams, if realistic for you

Any advanced course should match your bandwidth. A slightly lighter but stable 3.8 with good rigor is better than overloading and slipping across multiple classes.

2. Ace Standardized Tests

Many colleges are test-optional, but strong scores still help at many schools.

With a 3.8 GPA, think of testing this way:

• High scores can reinforce your academic strength.
• Solid but not perfect scores can still help at many targets.
• Very low scores might be better left out at test-optional schools.

If you have already tested, compare your SAT or ACT scores to the middle 50% ranges of your target colleges. Then:

• If you’re above the median, consider sending scores.
• If you’re close, a focused retake may be worth it.
• If you’re well below, you might skip scores where test optional applies.

Also, check whether your colleges superscore. If they do, targeted retakes in weaker sections can give you a clear bump without restarting from scratch.

3. Stand Out with Extracurriculars

At a 3.8 GPA, your activities can separate you from students with similar grades.

Focus on depth, impact, and consistency:

• Keep 3 to 5 activities where your role clearly grew over time.
• Aim for at least one area with real responsibility: leading, organizing, mentoring, or teaching.
• Tie your activities, when possible, to your academic interests or future major.

Extracurricular examples that stand out:

• Leading a club and starting a new project or event.
• Long-term volunteering with clear results or responsibilities.
• Research with a teacher or local professor.
• Work experience that shows maturity and time management.
• Competitions, portfolios, or performances with regional or national recognition.

On the Common App or UC application, use the descriptions to explain impact, not just duties. Show what changed because you were there.

4. Write a Personal Statement That Adds Something New

Your GPA and activities show what you did. Your personal statement shows how you think.

With a 3.8 GPA, the essay should:

• Add context to your academic story, not repeat it.
• Show moments where you changed, grew, or saw something differently.
• Use specific scenes or examples instead of broad claims.

Good essays often:

• Zoom into one or two concrete moments.
• Show you making a choice, solving a problem, or supporting someone.
• Reflect on what that moment says about your values or goals.

Avoid rewriting your résumé in paragraph form. Use the essay to show the voice behind the numbers.

5. Secure Strong, Specific Letters of Recommendation

Recommendation letters help colleges see how you work in a real classroom.

With your GPA, aim for teachers who can say more than “hard-working and responsible.” Choose:

• One teacher from a core academic subject, ideally 11th grade.
• Someone who saw you handle difficulty, feedback, or growth.

Help your recommenders write stronger recommendation letters by:

• Sharing a short “brag sheet” with key projects, challenges, or goals.
• Reminding them of specific moments where you improved or helped others.
• Giving them deadlines early enough so they’re not rushed.

You cannot control every word in a letter, but you can control how prepared your recommenders feel.

6. Align Your Applications With Your 3.8 Profile

Finally, use your 3.8 GPA to shape a smart strategy:

• Build a list with a mix of reaches, matches, and safeties.
• Consider honors colleges or scholars programs where your GPA is above average.
• Use early action when it strengthens your odds and fits your readiness.

When your course rigor, testing plan, activities, essays, and letters all support that 3.8, colleges see more than a number. They see a student who is prepared, intentional, and ready to contribute on day one.

Planning Your Next Step With a 3.8 GPA

With a 3.8 GPA, you can target selective public universities, competitive private colleges, and reach schools that value strong academic consistency. Your next step is to make sure every part of your application supports the story your transcript already tells.

A strong college list, thoughtful essays, and activities that show depth rather than volume will help your 3.8 stand out in a crowded pool. When those elements work together, you give colleges a clear sense of who you are and how you’ll contribute on campus.

With expert guidance, you’ll know where to look, and the path forward will be clearer as you refine your options and focus on the right opportunities.

Students who work with Empowerly counselors see admission chances increase up to 11x, and we are one consultation away from making it happen to you.

FAQs

Here are quick answers to common questions students ask about a 3.8 GPA.

1. Is a 3.8 GPA good enough for college?

Yes, a 3.8 GPA is considered very strong at most colleges. You are competitive for many selective public universities and a wide range of private schools, especially if your courses are rigorous and your grades are consistent.

2. What types of colleges can I get into with a 3.8 GPA?

With a 3.8 GPA, you can look at selective state flagships, many private universities, and some more competitive campuses, depending on your test scores and activities. Your chances will vary by school, major, and whether you apply in-state or out-of-state.

3. What else matters besides GPA in college applications?

Colleges also care about your coursework, test scores (if you send them), activities, essays, and letters of recommendation. They look for academic readiness, impact in your community, and signs that you will contribute to campus life, not just keep up in class.

4. How can I improve my chances of getting accepted with a 3.8 GPA?

You can focus on challenging courses, especially in core subjects, and keep your grades steady or trending up. Strong SAT or ACT scores, clear leadership or impact in a few activities, and a thoughtful personal statement will also help you stand out in competitive pools.

5. What resources can help me find colleges that accept a 3.8 GPA?

Start with this list of 125 colleges where a 3.8 GPA is competitive. Then use tools like the College Board’s BigFuture or similar platforms to filter by major, size, and location. If you want more tailored help, working with a counseling team can give you a short, realistic list built around your goals.

6. I have a lower GPA than 3.8. Are there still colleges I can apply to?

Yes. Many colleges admit students with GPAs below 3.8, especially when other parts of the application are strong. If your GPA is lower, focus on an upward grade trend, strong coursework where possible, and essays and activities that clearly show your growth, focus, and potential.