Skip to content
  • Solutions
    Our Services
    Middle School College Prep
    Transfer Admissions
    SAT Test Prep
    ACT Test Prep
    College Prep for Neurodiverse Students
  • About Us
    Our Story
    Why Us
    Success Stories
    Partnering with Us
    Empowerly for Employers
    Contact Us
  • Programs
    AI Scholar Program
    Research Scholar Program
    Startup Internship Program
    Passion Project Program
  • Resources
    Blog
    Webinars
    Empowerly Score®

Sign In

Free Consultation
Book a Free Consultation

Login

  • Blog > Applications

105 Colleges That Accept a 3.3 GPA

Picture of Gelyna Price

Gelyna Price

  • September 6, 2024

Imagine this: You’re sitting at your computer, staring at your high school transcript, and the number 3.3 stands out to you. Maybe you’re feeling uncertain, wondering if it’s enough to get you into a good college. You’re not alone. With a 3.3 GPA, you’re right in the mix—neither at the top of the class nor at the bottom, but with plenty of options. 

In today’s competitive college admissions landscape, where every decimal point seems to count, understanding where you stand is crucial. So, what does a 3.3 GPA mean for your future? Let’s explore the possibilities. This article will explore 105 colleges that accept a 3.3 GPA, provide detailed profiles of the top options, and offer tips to boost your application.

Is a 3.3 GPA Good?

A 3.3 GPA is generally considered above average and is equivalent to a B+ on the standard 4.0 grading scale. This GPA demonstrates consistent academic performance and shows that you’ve put in solid effort throughout your high school career. While it may not place you in the top tier of applicants for the most competitive schools, it’s a respectable GPA that can open doors to a wide range of colleges.

But here’s the key: The perception of whether a 3.3 GPA is “good” depends on the context. 

For instance, in more selective schools where the average admitted GPA is closer to 4.0, a 3.3 might be on the lower end. However, for many other institutions, a 3.3 is well within the range of admitted students. It’s important to understand that your GPA is just one part of your application, and schools will consider other factors, including your standardized test scores, extracurricular activities, and personal statements. What’s more, on your application, you will have space to mention any circumstances that affected your grades. With this knowledge, admissions officers can evaluate your application as a holistic profile.

What Colleges Can You Get into with a 3.3 GPA?

With a 3.3 GPA, you have a solid chance of getting accepted into a wide variety of colleges. Below is a list of the top 105 colleges that typically accept students with a GPA of 3.3. For each institution, we’ve included essential details to help you in your college search.

College NameLocationAverage GPAAcceptance RateAverage SAT CompositeAverage ACT CompositeNet Price
Alabama
University of AlabamaTuscaloosa, AL3.380%119024$19,700
Alaska
University of Alaska AnchorageAnchorage, AK3.376%107021$12,600
Arizona
University of ArizonaTucson, AZ3.385%121025$15,600
Arizona State UniversityTempe, AZ3.386%123025$14,100
Northern Arizona UniversityFlagstaff, AZ3.385%113022$15,500
Arkansas
University of ArkansasFayetteville, AR3.383%117024$15,900
Arkansas State UniversityJonesboro, AR3.390%109021$12,300
University of Central ArkansasConway, AR3.391%109022$12,500
California
California State University, Long BeachLong Beach, CA3.339%112022$9,700
California State University, FresnoFresno, CA3.358%110022$9,400
San Diego State UniversitySan Diego, CA3.337%121026$14,300
California State University, SacramentoSacramento, CA3.383%110022$9,800
Sonoma State UniversityRohnert Park, CA3.382%109021$15,000
California State University, ChicoChico, CA3.389%110022$12,300
Colorado
University of Colorado BoulderBoulder, CO3.378%125026$21,100
Colorado State UniversityFort Collins, CO3.384%118025$17,900
University of Northern ColoradoGreeley, CO3.389%108021$14,200
Connecticut
University of ConnecticutStorrs, CT3.348%123027$19,200
Delaware
University of DelawareNewark, DE3.367%122025$17,000
Florida
Florida International UniversityMiami, FL3.358%115024$9,900
University of Central FloridaOrlando, FL3.345%125026$11,500
Florida Atlantic UniversityBoca Raton, FL3.375%113023$10,300
Georgia
Georgia Southern UniversityStatesboro, GA3.391%110022$14,400
Valdosta State UniversityValdosta, GA3.378%105020$13,600
Idaho
University of IdahoMoscow, ID3.381%110022$15,100
Boise State UniversityBoise, ID3.381%112023$14,700
Illinois
Southern Illinois UniversityCarbondale, IL3.392%109022$15,400
Western Illinois UniversityMacomb, IL3.358%105020$14,800
Eastern Illinois UniversityCharleston, IL3.363%103020$14,400
DePaul UniversityChicago, IL3.368%113023$30,600
Indiana
Indiana University BloomingtonBloomington, IN3.380%118024$13,100
Ball State UniversityMuncie, IN3.389%113023$13,500
Iowa
University of IowaIowa City, IA3.384%119025$17,300
Kansas
University of KansasLawrence, KS3.393%120025$18,400
Kansas State UniversityManhattan, KS3.394%113023$18,700
Kentucky
University of LouisvilleLouisville, KY3.369%117024$17,200
Northern Kentucky UniversityHighland Heights, KY3.389%110022$10,800
Louisiana
Louisiana State UniversityBaton Rouge, LA3.374%119025$20,100
University of Louisiana at LafayetteLafayette, LA3.367%109022$11,700
Maine
University of MaineOrono, ME3.392%108022$17,500
Maryland
University of Maryland Eastern ShorePrincess Anne, MD3.354%103020$15,400
Massachusetts
University of Massachusetts AmherstAmherst, MA3.365%129027$21,800
Worcester State UniversityWorcester, MA3.378%110022$14,200
Michigan
Central Michigan UniversityMount Pleasant, MI3.377%109022$15,800
Eastern Michigan UniversityYpsilanti, MI3.375%107021$15,100
Western Michigan UniversityKalamazoo, MI3.380%112023$16,900
Minnesota
University of Minnesota DuluthDuluth, MN3.376%113024$17,400
Winona State UniversityWinona, MN3.368%110022$15,600
Missouri
Missouri State UniversitySpringfield, MO3.385%111023$16,000
Montana
University of MontanaMissoula, MT3.392%108022$14,600
Nebraska
University of Nebraska-LincolnLincoln, NE3.379%118025$17,800
Nevada
University of Nevada, RenoReno, NV3.388%116024$16,100
New Hampshire
University of New HampshireDurham, NH3.385%118024$21,400
New Jersey
Kean UniversityUnion, NJ3.369%106021$15,300
Montclair State UniversityMontclair, NJ3.377%110022$15,500
New Mexico
University of New MexicoAlbuquerque, NM3.394%108022$11,700
North Carolina
University of North Carolina at GreensboroGreensboro, NC3.382%113023$11,300
East Carolina UniversityGreenville, NC3.382%113022$13,800
Appalachian State UniversityBoone, NC3.380%118025$12,800
North Dakota
University of North DakotaGrand Forks, ND3.382%112022$15,400
North Dakota State UniversityFargo, ND3.388%113023$15,700
Ohio
University of AkronAkron, OH3.393%110022$16,200
Bowling Green State UniversityBowling Green, OH3.388%109022$16,800
Ohio UniversityAthens, OH3.387%115024$17,100
University of ToledoToledo, OH3.394%110022$16,400
Oklahoma
University of OklahomaNorman, OK3.380%116024$19,600
Oklahoma State UniversityStillwater, OK3.370%112023$16,200
Oregon
University of OregonEugene, OR3.382%118024$17,800
Portland State UniversityPortland, OR3.398%108022$13,400
Pennsylvania
Pennsylvania State UniversityUniversity Park, PA3.354%125027$25,300
Indiana University of PennsylvaniaIndiana, PA3.392%108022$19,400
Duquesne UniversityPittsburgh, PA3.372%114024$30,200
Rhode Island
University of Rhode IslandKingston, RI3.376%115024$19,000
South Carolina
College of CharlestonCharleston, SC3.374%118025$19,500
University of South Carolina UpstateSpartanburg, SC3.358%106021$11,400
South Dakota
University of South DakotaVermillion, SD3.386%113022$17,500
Tennessee
University of Tennessee at ChattanoogaChattanooga, TN3.383%110022$13,800
East Tennessee State UniversityJohnson City, TN3.386%109021$13,300
Middle Tennessee State UniversityMurfreesboro, TN3.394%108021$11,200
Texas
Texas State UniversitySan Marcos, TX3.385%111023$13,700
Sam Houston State UniversityHuntsville, TX3.385%110022$12,600
University of Texas at ArlingtonArlington, TX3.379%114023$14,300
Utah
University of UtahSalt Lake City, UT3.362%119025$14,900
Southern Utah UniversityCedar City, UT3.378%110022$11,700
Utah Valley UniversityOrem, UT3.3100%108021$9,500
Vermont
University of VermontBurlington, VT3.367%118025$21,000
Virginia
Old Dominion UniversityNorfolk, VA3.389%110022$17,500
Virginia Commonwealth UniversityRichmond, VA3.391%113023$19,300
Washington
University of Washington TacomaTacoma, WA3.386%114023$12,400
Wisconsin
University of Wisconsin-MilwaukeeMilwaukee, WI3.393%111022$14,900
Wyoming
University of WyomingLaramie, WY3.394%111023$12,800
college application process

Detailed Profiles of the Top 20 Colleges that Accept a 3.3 GPA

To give you a deeper understanding of the options available, we’ve created detailed profiles for the top 20 colleges on our list. These profiles include critical data points to help you make an informed decision.

Now, let’s dive into detailed profiles of the top 20+ colleges from the list. This section will provide a closer look at each institution, including acceptance rates, average GPAs, test scores, net price, and other key details.

Alabama

1. University of Alabama
Location: Tuscaloosa, AL
Brief Description: A flagship institution known for its strong programs in business, engineering, and law. It has a rich history and a strong sense of school spirit.
Acceptance Rate: 82%
Average GPA: 3.3
Average ACT Composite: 26
Average SAT Composite: 1230
Average Net Price: $20,700
Number of Students: 38,563

Arizona

2. University of Arizona
Location: Tucson, AZ
Brief Description: A top-tier public research university known for its strong programs in science, engineering, and business. It offers a vibrant campus life with a range of extracurricular activities.
Acceptance Rate: 85%
Average GPA: 3.3
Average ACT Composite: 25
Average SAT Composite: 1210
Average Net Price: $15,600
Number of Students: 45,601

Arkansas

3. University of Arkansas
Location: Fayetteville, AR
Brief Description: The state’s flagship university offers strong programs in business, engineering, and agriculture. The university has a picturesque campus and a growing national reputation.
Acceptance Rate: 82%
Average GPA: 3.3
Average ACT Composite: 25
Average SAT Composite: 1180
Average Net Price: $15,200
Number of Students: 27,559

California

4. California State University, Long Beach
Location: Long Beach, CA
Brief Description: One of the largest and most diverse universities in California, offering strong programs in the arts, engineering, and health sciences.
Acceptance Rate: 39%
Average GPA: 3.3
Average ACT Composite: 22
Average SAT Composite: 1120
Average Net Price: $9,700
Number of Students: 37,466

Colorado

5. University of Colorado Boulder
Location: Boulder, CO
Brief Description: Known for its stunning location at the foothills of the Rocky Mountains, the university offers strong programs in environmental science, engineering, and business.
Acceptance Rate: 80%
Average GPA: 3.3
Average ACT Composite: 25
Average SAT Composite: 1200
Average Net Price: $21,100
Number of Students: 36,122

Florida

6. University of South Florida
Location: Tampa, FL
Brief Description: A rapidly growing research university with strong programs in health sciences, engineering, and business. It offers a vibrant campus life and opportunities for internships in a major metropolitan area.
Acceptance Rate: 49%
Average GPA: 3.3
Average ACT Composite: 25
Average SAT Composite: 1220
Average Net Price: $10,800
Number of Students: 50,830

Indiana

7. Indiana University Bloomington
Location: Bloomington, IN
Brief Description: Known for its prestigious business school and vibrant campus community, IU Bloomington offers a wide range of academic opportunities.
Acceptance Rate: 80%
Average GPA: 3.3
Average ACT Composite: 25
Average SAT Composite: 1220
Average Net Price: $14,500
Number of Students: 43,064

Iowa

8. University of Iowa
Location: Iowa City, IA
Brief Description: Renowned for its writing programs and medical school, the University of Iowa offers a strong liberal arts education with research opportunities.
Acceptance Rate: 84%
Average GPA: 3.3
Average ACT Composite: 25
Average SAT Composite: 1190
Average Net Price: $15,800
Number of Students: 30,318

Kansas

9. University of Kansas
Location: Lawrence, KS
Brief Description: A prominent public research university with a strong emphasis on research and a diverse array of undergraduate programs.
Acceptance Rate: 93%
Average GPA: 3.3
Average ACT Composite: 25
Average SAT Composite: 1200
Average Net Price: $18,400
Number of Students: 27,565

Kentucky

10. University of Kentucky
Location: Lexington, KY
Brief Description: A leading public research university known for its programs in agriculture, engineering, and health sciences. The university also has a strong athletic tradition.
Acceptance Rate: 95%
Average GPA: 3.3
Average ACT Composite: 24
Average SAT Composite: 1160
Average Net Price: $19,100
Number of Students: 29,986

Massachusetts

11. University of Massachusetts Amherst
Location: Amherst, MA
Brief Description: The flagship campus of the UMass system is known for its strong research programs in science, engineering, and business. The campus has a lively social scene and a commitment to sustainability.
Acceptance Rate: 66%
Average GPA: 3.3
Average ACT Composite: 26
Average SAT Composite: 1250
Average Net Price: $21,500
Number of Students: 31,642

Michigan

12. Michigan State University
Location: East Lansing, MI
Brief Description: A Big Ten university known for its strong programs in business, education, and agriculture, with a sprawling campus and a spirited student body.
Acceptance Rate: 83%
Average GPA: 3.3
Average ACT Composite: 26
Average SAT Composite: 1220
Average Net Price: $16,600
Number of Students: 49,809

Mississippi

13. University of Mississippi
Location: Oxford, MS
Brief Description: Known for its beautiful campus and strong programs in law, journalism, and business. The university offers a rich cultural experience and a tight-knit community.
Acceptance Rate: 88%
Average GPA: 3.3
Average ACT Composite: 24
Average SAT Composite: 1160
Average Net Price: $13,800
Number of Students: 21,676

Missouri

14. University of Missouri
Location: Columbia, MO
Brief Description: The largest university in Missouri, known for its journalism school and research opportunities across various disciplines.
Acceptance Rate: 81%
Average GPA: 3.3
Average ACT Composite: 24
Average SAT Composite: 1170
Average Net Price: $17,400
Number of Students: 30,046

Nebraska

15. University of Nebraska-Lincoln
Location: Lincoln, NE
Brief Description: A flagship institution with a strong focus on agricultural sciences, engineering, and business. The university also offers a robust sports culture.
Acceptance Rate: 79%
Average GPA: 3.3
Average ACT Composite: 24
Average SAT Composite: 1150
Average Net Price: $16,100
Number of Students: 25,390

New Hampshire

16. University of New Hampshire
Location: Durham, NH
Brief Description: Known for its programs in marine biology, environmental science, and business, UNH offers a scenic campus and a close-knit community.
Acceptance Rate: 85%
Average GPA: 3.3
Average ACT Composite: 25
Average SAT Composite: 1190
Average Net Price: $22,200
Number of Students: 14,788

Ohio

17. University of Cincinnati
Location: Cincinnati, OH
Brief Description: A major urban research university offering renowned co-op programs in engineering, design, and business.
Acceptance Rate: 76%
Average GPA: 3.3
Average ACT Composite: 24
Average SAT Composite: 1160
Average Net Price: $21,500
Number of Students: 40,329

Oklahoma

18. University of Oklahoma
Location: Norman, OK
Brief Description: Offers a comprehensive range of programs, particularly strong in meteorology, petroleum engineering, and business. The university is known for its vibrant campus life and traditions.
Acceptance Rate: 83%
Average GPA: 3.3
Average ACT Composite: 25
Average SAT Composite: 1200
Average Net Price: $21,500
Number of Students: 28,079

Oregon

19. University of Oregon
Location: Eugene, OR
Brief Description: Known for its beautiful campus and strong programs in journalism, business, and environmental studies. It offers a dynamic college experience with a focus on sustainability.
Acceptance Rate: 83%
Average GPA: 3.3
Average ACT Composite: 24
Average SAT Composite: 1170
Average Net Price: $16,700
Number of Students: 21,752

Tennessee

20. University of Tennessee
Location: Knoxville, TN
Brief Description: A major research university with strong programs in engineering, business, and agriculture. The university has a spirited student body and a strong athletics tradition.
Acceptance Rate: 79%
Average GPA: 3.3
Average ACT Composite: 25
Average SAT Composite: 1200
Average Net Price: $21,500
Number of Students: 31,701

Texas

21. University of Houston
Location: Houston, TX
Brief Description: A major urban research university with strong programs in business, engineering, and health sciences. The university offers numerous internship opportunities in one of the country’s largest cities.
Acceptance Rate: 65%
Average GPA: 3.3
Average ACT Composite: 25
Average SAT Composite: 1200
Average Net Price: $14,000
Number of Students: 46,324

Utah

22. University of Utah
Location: Salt Lake City, UT
Brief Description: A leading research university with strong programs in health sciences, engineering, and business, set against the backdrop of the Utah mountains.
Acceptance Rate: 79%
Average GPA: 3.3
Average ACT Composite: 25
Average SAT Composite: 1200
Average Net Price: $13,700
Number of Students: 32,994

calculator

How to Improve Your Admissions Chances with a 3.3 GPA

While a 3.3 GPA can certainly get you into many great colleges, there are ways to enhance your application and increase your chances of acceptance, especially if you’re aiming for schools where the average GPA is higher. Here’s how to build a strong strategy:

1. Boost Your Standardized Test Scores

Strong SAT or ACT scores can complement your GPA and make your application more competitive. Many colleges consider these scores alongside your GPA to get a better sense of your academic abilities. Consider dedicating extra time to test preparation, taking practice exams, and even retaking the test if necessary to achieve the highest score possible.

2. Craft a Compelling Personal Statement

Your personal statement is your opportunity to tell your story. Use this space to highlight your strengths, passions, and unique experiences—and more than anything, your academic curiosity. A well-crafted essay can make a strong impression on admissions officers and help you stand out from other applicants with similar GPAs.

3. Showcase Your Extracurricular Involvement

Colleges are looking for well-rounded students who contribute to their communities both inside and outside of the classroom. Highlight your involvement in clubs, sports, volunteer work, or part-time jobs. Leadership roles and long-term commitments are particularly impressive and can help offset a lower GPA.

4. Seek Strong Letters of Recommendation

Recommendations from teachers, counselors, or mentors who know you well can provide valuable insights into your character, work ethic, and potential. Choose recommenders who can speak to your strengths and provide specific examples of your achievements.

5. Consider Applying Early Decision or Early Action

If you have a first-choice school, applying early decision or early action can improve your chances of acceptance. These programs often have higher acceptance rates and show the college that you’re committed to attending if admitted.

6. Emphasize Upward Trends in Your Grades

If your GPA has improved over time, especially in your junior and senior years, make sure to highlight this in your application. Looking for ways to boost your GPA? Try taking classes outside of your high school! Many students find that community college courses or online curricula like Coursera or EdX help their transcript. What’s more, admissions officers often look favorably at students who demonstrate growth and resilience over time in their high school academic performance.

7. Use the Additional Information Spaces

Don’t be afraid to take advantage of the additional information section of the application. While optional, it’s often extremely helpful to take a few sentences to explain any unique circumstances in your life that may have caused some lower grades. Admissions officers will better understand the reason for any difficulties with the context accompanying it.

Your Journey with a 3.3 GPA Starts Here

A 3.3 GPA is far from a dead end—it’s a solid foundation that can lead to numerous opportunities in higher education. While you might not be aiming for the Ivy League, many reputable colleges and universities would be thrilled to have you join their ranks. By understanding your options, focusing on your strengths, and presenting a well-rounded application, you can turn your 3.3 GPA into an acceptance letter from a school that’s the right fit for you.

Remember, the college journey is about finding the place where you’ll thrive, not just the place with the most prestige. With careful planning and a positive outlook, you’ll be well on your way to achieving your academic goals. When the time comes, try to visit your top choice schools if possible! These in-person visits can help confirm your choice of campus culture, as well as stoke your excitement about the future.

FAQs

Is a 3.3 GPA good enough for college?

Yes, a 3.3 GPA is good enough to get you into a variety of colleges. While it may not meet the standards of the most selective institutions, it’s above average and opens doors to many excellent schools.

What types of colleges can I get into with a 3.3 GPA?

With a 3.3 GPA, you can gain admission to a range of schools, including public universities, private colleges, and liberal arts institutions. The key is to find colleges where your GPA aligns with the average admitted student.

What else matters besides GPA in college applications?

Colleges look at several factors beyond GPA, including standardized test scores, extracurricular activities, personal statements, and letters of recommendation. A strong application in these areas can enhance your chances of acceptance.

How can I improve my chances of getting accepted with a 3.3 GPA?

Focus on achieving high standardized test scores, writing a compelling personal statement, showcasing your extracurricular involvement, and obtaining strong letters of recommendation. Highlighting an upward trend in your grades, and taking independent courses outside of school, can also help your chances.

What resources can help me find colleges that accept a 3.3 GPA?

Use college search tools like College Board’s BigFuture, Naviance, and other online resources that allow you to filter schools by GPA. College counseling services can also provide personalized guidance based on your academic profile. You can also consider working with a college counseling service like Empowerly for personalized advice.

I have a lower GPA than 3.3. Are there still colleges I can apply to?

Absolutely! Many colleges accept students with GPAs below 3.3, particularly if they have other strengths in their application. Consider community colleges or schools with higher acceptance rates, and explore transfer options after improving your GPA. Many states even have transfer agreements between community colleges and four-year universities that can set you on the right track right away. 

Ready to make your college admission dreams a reality?

Join the 98% of students who partnered with Empowerly and got accepted into Ivy League and top 25 schools. Our top-rated college counselors boost admission rates by 11x for our students. If you have any questions or challenges, book your FREE consultation, and we’d be happy to help you.

Book A Free Consultation
Share this post
College Internships
Picture of Gelyna Price

Gelyna Price

Related articles

Find the latest college admissions news, tips, resources and more.

Empowerly’s Guide to Summer Programs

Explore top competitive high school summer programs and download Empowerly’s new guide to help your student build a standout summer strategy.

How to Stand Out in National Science & History Competitions

Here’s how to win national science and history competitions — and what real students did to get into top colleges like Princeton.

Do Extracurriculars During Admissions Season Still Count?

It’s senior year. Do your extracurriculars during admissions season even count? Turns out, yes, and now is not the time to get caught slipping.

Empowerly is a member of:

Menu

  • Services
  • Success Stories
  • Careers
  • Become a Counselor
  • Refer a Friend
  • Book a Consult

Contact Us

  • enrollment@empowerly.com
  • 800 491 6920
  • empowerly.com

Follow Us

  • LinkedIn
  • Instagram
  • Facebook
Subscribe to our Newsletter
© 2025 Empowerly Inc | All Rights Reserved
Cookie Preferences
Terms & Conditions
Privacy Policy
Solutions
Our Services
Middle School College Prep
Transfer Admissions
SAT Test Prep
ACT Test Prep
College Prep for Neurodiverse Students
About Us
Our Story
Why Us
Success Stories
Partnering with Us
Empowerly for Employers
Programs
AI Scholar Program
Research Scholar Program
Startup Internship Program
Resources
Blog
Referral
Webinars
Empowerly Score®
Book a Free Consultation
Login