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100 Best Colleges That Accept a 3.7 GPA

Austin GormanApril 17, 2026

If you have a 3.7 GPA, congratulations; you’re in a strong position for college admissions. With that 3.7, you’ve demonstrated consistent academic performance, placing you in the upper percentile of students nationwide. But as you begin your college search, you might wonder: What colleges can I get into with a 3.7 GPA?

In this article, we’ll explore 100 colleges that accept a 3.7 GPA, provide detailed profiles of the top institutions, and offer tips on how to boost your college application so you can stand out in today’s competitive admissions landscape.

Is a 3.7 GPA Good?

A 3.7 GPA translates to an A- on the grade scale, positioning you well above the national average of 3.0. This GPA demonstrates not only intelligence but also a dedication to your studies and the ability to maintain high academic standards. Colleges will recognize your efforts during the admissions process.

While a 3.7 GPA opens doors to many top-tier schools, admissions officers also consider factors like extracurricular activities, leadership, and test scores. Therefore, while your GPA is solid, it’s important to think about the holistic elements of your application as well.

What Colleges Can You Get Iinto Wwith a 3.7 GPA?

Here’s a list of the top 100 colleges that accept students with a 3.7 GPA. Along with the college name, we’ve provided critical statistics like location, acceptance rate, average SAT/ACT scores, and net price to help you make an informed decision.

	State	College Name	Location	Average GPA	Acceptance Rate	Average SAT	Average ACT	Net Price
1	AL	Auburn University	Auburn, AL	4.07	50%	1150-1320	25-31	$24,028
2	AL	University of Alabama	Tuscaloosa, AL	3.87	76%	1070-1370	23-31	$20,518
3	AL	Samford University	Birmingham, AL	3.9	82%	1100-1300	23-30	$30,490
4	AR	Hendrix College	Conway, AR	3.8	53%	1210-1390	27-32	$23,373
5	AZ	Arizona State University	Tempe, AZ	3.54	90.2%	1130-1380	21-28	$14,808
6	AZ	University of Arizona	Tucson, AZ	3.5	86%	1090-1350	21-29	$15,620
7	AZ	Northern Arizona University	Flagstaff, AZ	3.7	91%	1090-1290	21-27	$15,635
8	CA	University of Southern California	Los Angeles, CA	3.87	10%	1440-1530	32-35	$36,161
9	CA	Pepperdine University	Malibu, CA	3.65	50%	1250-1430	28-32	$40,941
10	CA	University of San Diego	San Diego, CA	4.1	47%	1190-1360	26-31	$36,086
11	CA	Loyola Marymount University	Los Angeles, CA	4.01	40%	1230-1410	26-30	$43,092
12	CA	Chapman University	Orange, CA	3.75	55.6%	1210-1410	27-32	$43,700
13	CA	Santa Clara University	Santa Clara, CA	3.73	43.8%	1300-1480	28-32	$40,179
14	CO	University of Colorado Boulder	Boulder, CO	3.76	81.1%	1170-1360	25-31	$22,225
15	CO	Colorado State University	Fort Collins, CO	3.7	81%	1080-1290	23-28	$16,793
16	CO	University of Denver	Denver, CO	3.8	71%	1190-1370	27-31	$37,745
17	CO	Regis University	Denver, CO	3.65	87%	1100-1280	23-29	$30,000
18	CT	University of Connecticut	Storrs, CT	3.76	54%	1200-1400	27-32	$22,233
19	CT	Quinnipiac University	Hamden, CT	3.54	77%	1090-1280	23-29	$39,200
20	DE	University of Delaware	Newark, DE	4.04	63.6%	1150-1330	24-30	$18,828
21	FL	University of Florida	Gainesville, FL	3.93	24%	1310-1470	28-33	$11,313
22	FL	Florida State University	Tallahassee, FL	4.0	25%	1230-1350	26-30	$12,815
23	FL	University of Miami	Coral Gables, FL	3.8	19%	1300-1460	29-33	$34,492
24	FL	Rollins College	Winter Park, FL	3.5	40.5%	1140-1340	25-30	$31,640
25	GA	University of Georgia	Athens, GA	4.14	37%	1240-1400	28-32	$16580
26	GA	Emory University	Atlanta, GA	3.8	11%	1400-1530	32-35	$27,683
27	GA	Mercer University	Macon, GA	3.9	66%	1150-1340	24-30	$20,464
28	IA	University of Iowa	Iowa City, IA	3.8	86%	1120-1330	22-29	$17,695
29	IA	Drake University	Des Moines, IA	3.67	65.5%	1120-1340	24-30	$30,559
30	IL	University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign	Urbana-Champaign, IL	3.94	43.7%	1200-1460	27-33	$13,517
31	IL	Loyola University Chicago	Chicago, IL	3.7	81%	1150-1340	24-30	$36,388
32	IL	DePaul University	Chicago, IL	3.8	74%	1080-1280	23-29	$31,808
33	IL	Illinois Institute of Technology	Chicago, IL	4.2	55.4%	1250-1430	28-32	$30,560
34	IN	Indiana University Bloomington	Bloomington, IN	3.78	80%	1150-1360	25-31	$13,191
35	IN	University of Notre Dame	Notre Dame, IN	4.11	12%	1400-1550	32-35	$31,726
36	IN	Purdue University	West Lafayette, IN	3.8	50%	1180-1410	26-32	$13,608
37	IN	Butler University	Indianapolis, IN	3.92	86%	1150-1330	26-30	$37,043
38	KS	University of Kansas	Lawrence, KS	3.65	88.2%	1100-1300	22-29	$19,195
39	KY	University of Kentucky	Lexington, KY	3.61	95%	1080-1320	23-29	$18,739
40	KY	Centre College	Danville, KY	3.8	56%	1160-1360	26-31	$22,600
41	LA	Tulane University	New Orleans, LA	3.7	14.6%	1350-1490	30-33	$38,816
42	LA	Louisiana State University	Baton Rouge, LA	3.81	74%	1080-1310	23-29	$20,352
43	LA	Loyola University New Orleans	New Orleans, LA	3.58	88%	1060-1250	22-28	$24,444
44	MA	Boston University	Boston, MA	3.89	11%	1330-1500	30-34	$29,154
45	MA	Northeastern University	Boston, MA	4.11	6%	1430-1540	32-35	$29,587
46	MA	University of Massachusetts Amherst	Amherst, MA	4.07	58%	1200-1370	26-32	$21,281
47	MA	Wheaton College	Norton, MA	3.78	80%	1140-1330	24-31	$34,330
48	MD	University of Maryland College Park	College Park, MD	4.45	45%	1280-1470	29-33	$16,364
49	MD	Loyola University Maryland	Baltimore, MD	3.74	81%	1130-1310	24-29	$37,232
50	ME	University of New England	Biddeford, ME	3.41	92%	1030-1270	21-28	$35,970
51	MI	University of Michigan	Ann Arbor, MI	3.9	18%	1400-1550	31-34	$17,832
52	MI	Michigan State University	East Lansing, MI	3.8	84%	1120-1310	23-29	$16,655
53	MI	Kalamazoo College	Kalamazoo, MI	3.75	76%	1150-1350	24-30	$27,238
54	MN	University of Minnesota Twin Cities	Minneapolis, MN	3.88	77%	1270-1480	26-31	$17,729
55	MN	St. Olaf College	Northfield, MN	3.71	52%	1260-1460	28-33	$26,800
56	MO	Washington University in St. Louis	St. Louis, MO	4.0	12%	1470-1560	33-35	$28,923
57	MO	Saint Louis University	St. Louis, MO	3.9	81.5%	1210-1400	27-31	$32,960
58	MS	Millsaps College	Jackson, MS	3.65	68%	1090-1280	22-29	$24,900
59	MT	University of Montana	Missoula, MT	3.36	96%	1090-1290	21-28	$14,850
60	NC	University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill	Chapel Hill, NC	4.47	19%	1300-1480	29-34	$17,265
61	NC	North Carolina State University	Raleigh, NC	3.9	40%	1210-1410	27-32	$16,520
62	NC	Elon University	Elon, NC	4.09	67%	1180-1370	25-30	$36,082
63	ND	University of North Dakota	Grand Forks, ND	3.6	77%	1080-1290	21-27	$16,178
64	NE	Creighton University	Omaha, NE	3.9	72%	1170-1360	25-31	$32,355
65	NH	Saint Anselm College	Manchester, NH	3.4	78.3%	1120-1310	24-29	$32,411
66	NJ	Stevens Institute of Technology	Hoboken, NJ	3.89	43%	1340-1500	30-33	$37,595
67	NJ	Rutgers University	New Brunswick, NJ	3.88	65%	1230-1430	25-31	$17,535
68	NV	University of Nevada, Reno	Reno, NV	3.44	85.3%	1070-1300	21-27	$16,489
69	NY	New York University	New York, NY	3.81	7.7%	1370-1510	31-34	$45,417
70	NY	Syracuse University	Syracuse, NY	3.8	42%	1180-1380	26-30	$47,177
71	NY	Hofstra University	Hempstead, NY	3.79	71%	1140-1340	24-30	$32,775
72	OH	Ohio State University	Columbus, OH	3.81	51%	1220-1490	27-32	$13,757
73	OH	University of Dayton	Dayton, OH	3.75	61.8%	1130-1320	24-30	$31,297
74	OK	University of Oklahoma	Norman, OK	3.6	76%	1120-1360	23-30	$17,274
75	OK	Oklahoma State University	Stillwater, OK	3.7	67%	1080-1290	21-27	$14,878
76	OR	University of Oregon	Eugene, OR	3.8	85%	1130-1330	24-30	$21,343
77	OR	Willamette University	Salem, OR	3.96	79%	1120-1320	23-30	$30,452
78	PA	Penn State University	University Park, PA	3.67	54%	1230-1470	26-32	$21,430
79	PA	Temple University	Philadelphia, PA	3.38	83%	1130-1330	25-30	$24,122
80	PA	Drexel University	Philadelphia, PA	3.8	77.5%	1190-1370	26-31	$39,390
81	RI	University of Rhode Island	Kingston, RI	3.64	77%	1110-1330	22-28	$20,174
82	RI	Providence College	Providence, RI	3.6	49%	1150-1340	25-30	$37,090
83	SC	Clemson University	Clemson, SC	4.43	38%	1240-1430	26-32	$20,788
84	SC	University of South Carolina	Columbia, SC	3.7	61%	1190-1390	24-30	$18,424
85	SC	Furman University	Greenville, SC	3.66	52.6%	1220-1400	27-31	$36,015
86	TN	University of Tennessee Knoxville	Knoxville, TN	4.19	46%	1160-1370	24-30	$18,986
87	TN	University of Texas at Austin	Austin, TX	3.85	29%	1300-1480	27-33	$14,028
88	TX	Texas A&M University	College Station, TX	3.66	63.1%	1160-1370	26-31	$20,335
89	TX	Southern Methodist University	Dallas, TX	3.7	61.2%	1220-1440	26-32	$34,771
90	TX	Baylor University	Waco, TX	3.67	51%	1210-1390	26-31	$38,372
91	UT	University of Utah	Salt Lake City, UT	3.68	87%	1130-1340	23-30	$20,226
92	VA	University of Virginia	Charlottesville, VA	4.32	17%	1340-1530	30-34	$24,055
93	VA	James Madison University	Harrisonburg, VA	3.62	76%	1180-1390	26-31	$21,804
94	VA	Virginia Commonwealth University	Richmond, VA	3.7	92.7%	1070-1290	22-28	$21,566
95	VT	Middlebury College	Middlebury, VT	4.04	10%	1370-1520	31-34	$24,070
96	WA	University of Washington	Seattle, WA	3.8	43%	1250-1460	27-32	$19,745
97	WA	Whitman College	Walla Walla, WA	3.7	50%	1260-1440	28-32	$29,000
98	WI	University of Wisconsin-Madison	Madison, WI	3.9	43.3%	1210-1460	26-32	$15,549
99	WI	Lawrence University	Appleton, WI	3.74	63%	1200-1380	26-31	$24,826
100	WV	West Virginia University	Morgantown, WV	3.45	88%	1040-1260	21-27	$12,181

The Top 50 Colleges that Accept a 3.7 GPA

Here’s a closer look at the top 50 colleges from the list, offering more in-depth information about each school, their admissions requirements, and what makes them unique.

1. University of Delaware

Brief Description: UD is a prominent public research university, known for its strong engineering, business, and health sciences programs.
Acceptance Rate: 63.6%
Average GPA: 4.04
Average ACT Composite: 24-30
Average SAT Composite: 1150-1330
Average Net Price: $18,828
Number of Students: 19,119

2. University of Florida

Brief Description: UF is a top public research university with strong programs in engineering, business, and the sciences.
Acceptance Rate: 24%
Average GPA: 3.93
Average ACT Composite: 28-33
Average SAT Composite: 1310-1470
Average Net Price: $11,313
Number of Students: 54,814

3. University of Georgia

Brief Description: UGA is a major public research university, known for its agriculture, business, and education programs.
Acceptance Rate: 37%
Average GPA: 4.14
Average ACT Composite: 28-32
Average SAT Composite: 1240-1400
Average Net Price: $16,580
Number of Students: 31,514

4. University of Iowa

Brief Description: UI is a leading public research university known for its programs in business, health, and engineering.
Acceptance Rate: 86%
Average GPA: 3.8
Average ACT Composite: 22-29
Average SAT Composite: 1120-1330
Average Net Price: $17,695
Number of Students: 30,045

5. University of Minnesota Twin Cities

Brief Description: The University of Minnesota is a flagship public research university offering a wide range of programs across multiple disciplines.
Acceptance Rate: 77%
Average GPA: 3.88
Average ACT Composite: 26-31
Average SAT Composite: 1270-1480
Average Net Price: $17,729
Number of Students: 54,890

6. Rutgers University

Brief Description: Rutgers is New Jersey’s largest public research university, offering diverse undergraduate and graduate programs.
Acceptance Rate: 65%
Average GPA: 3.88
Average ACT Composite: 25-31
Average SAT Composite: 1230-1430
Average Net Price: $17,535
Number of Students: 69,000

7. New York University

Brief Description: NYU is a world-renowned private research university in New York City with top programs in arts, business, and law.
Acceptance Rate: 7.7%
Average GPA: 3.81
Average ACT Composite: 31-34
Average SAT Composite: 1370-1510
Average Net Price: $45,417
Number of Students: 65,000

8. University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill

Brief Description: UNC-Chapel Hill is one of the oldest public universities in the US, and it offers world-class academics and research opportunities.
Acceptance Rate: 19%
Average GPA: 4.47
Average ACT Composite: 29-34
Average SAT Composite: 1300-1480
Average Net Price: $17,265
Number of Students: 32,234

9. Ohio State University

Brief Description: Ohio State is one of the largest public universities in the US, known for its diverse academic offerings and robust research initiatives.
Acceptance Rate: 51%
Average GPA: 3.81
Average ACT Composite: 27-32
Average SAT Composite: 1220-1490
Average Net Price: $13,757
Number of Students: 45,728

10. University of Oklahoma

Brief Description: OU is a public research university with strong programs in engineering, business, and health sciences.
Acceptance Rate: 76%
Average GPA: 3.6
Average ACT Composite: 23-30
Average SAT Composite: 1120-1360
Average Net Price: $17,274
Number of Students: 34,523

11. University of Oregon

Brief Description: UO is a public research university that is widely recognized for its business, science, and journalism programs.
Acceptance Rate: 85%
Average GPA: 3.8
Average ACT Composite: 24-30
Average SAT Composite: 1130-1330
Average Net Price: $21,343
Number of Students: 23,384

12. Penn State University

Brief Description: Penn State is a major public research university known for its comprehensive academic offerings and strong alumni network.
Acceptance Rate: 54%
Average GPA: 3.67
Average ACT Composite: 26-32
Average SAT Composite: 1230-1470
Average Net Price: $21,430
Number of Students: 88,914

13. Temple University

Brief Description: Temple is a large public research university in Philadelphia, offering diverse programs within an urban setting.
Acceptance Rate: 83%
Average GPA: 3.38
Average ACT Composite: 25-30
Average SAT Composite: 1130-1330
Average Net Price: $24,122
Number of Students: 30,205

14. Clemson University

Brief Description: Clemson University is a public research institution known for its strong engineering, business, and agricultural programs.
Acceptance Rate: 38%
Average GPA: 4.43
Average ACT Composite: 26-32
Average SAT Composite: 1240-1430
Average Net Price: $20,788
Number of Students: 29,077

15. University of South Carolina

Brief Description: USC is a major public research institution with strong programs in business, law, and public health.
Acceptance Rate: 61%
Average GPA: 3.7
Average ACT Composite: 24-30
Average SAT Composite: 1190-1390
Average Net Price: $18,424
Number of Students: 28,470

16. University of Tennessee Knoxville

Brief Description: UTK offers a comprehensive range of academic programs, advanced research initiatives, and vibrant student life.
Acceptance Rate: 46%
Average GPA: 4.19
Average ACT Composite: 24-30
Average SAT Composite: 1160-1370
Average Net Price: $18,986
Number of Students: 36,304

17. Southern Methodist University

Brief Description: SMU is a private research university in Dallas known for its business and law programs.
Acceptance Rate: 61.2%
Average GPA: 3.7
Average ACT Composite: 26-32
Average SAT Composite: 1220-1440
Average Net Price: $34,771
Number of Students: 10,850

18. Texas A&M University

Brief Description: Texas A&M is a large public research university with excellent engineering and business programs.
Acceptance Rate: 63.1%
Average GPA: 3.66
Average ACT Composite: 26-31
Average SAT Composite: 1160-1370
Average Net Price: $19,906
Number of Students: 79,114

19. University of Texas at Austin

Brief Description: UT Austin is a top public research university with strong programs in business, engineering, and the arts.
Acceptance Rate: 29%
Average GPA: 3.85
Average ACT Composite: 27-33
Average SAT Composite: 1300-1480
Average Net Price: $14,028
Number of Students: 53,082

20. University of Utah

Brief Description: The University of Utah is a leading research university with strong programs in health sciences, business, and engineering.
Acceptance Rate: 87%
Average GPA: 3.68
Average ACT Composite: 23-30
Average SAT Composite: 1130-1340
Average Net Price: $20,226
Number of Students: 35,236

21. James Madison University

Brief Description: JMU offers strong business, education, and health sciences programs within a welcoming campus environment.
Acceptance Rate: 76%
Average GPA: 3.62
Average ACT Composite: 26-31
Average SAT Composite: 1180-1390
Average Net Price: $21,804
Number of Students: 20,409

22. University of Virginia

Brief Description: UVA is a top public research university founded by Thomas Jefferson. It’s known for its strong liberal arts programs and historic campus.
Acceptance Rate: 17%
Average GPA: 4.32
Average ACT Composite: 30-34
Average SAT Composite: 1340-1530
Average Net Price: $24,055
Number of Students: 25,924

23. University of Washington

Brief Description: Located in Seattle, the University of Washington is a leading public research university offering extensive academic and extracurricular opportunities.
Acceptance Rate: 43%
Average GPA: 3.8
Average ACT Composite: 27-32
Average SAT Composite: 1250-1460
Average Net Price: $19,745
Number of Students: 55,620

24. University of Wisconsin-Madison

Brief Description: UW-Madison is a highly respected public research university with a vibrant campus life and strong academic programs.
Acceptance Rate: 43.3%
Average GPA: 3.9
Average ACT Composite: 26-32
Average SAT Composite: 1210-1460
Average Net Price: $15,549
Number of Students: 48,557

25. Washington University in St. Louis

Brief Description: WashU is a prestigious private research university with especially well-regarded business, law, and medical programs.
Acceptance Rate: 11%
Average GPA: 4.0
Average ACT Composite: 33-35
Average SAT Composite: 1470-1560
Average Net Price: $28,923
Number of Students: 16,399

26. University of Michigan

Brief Description: The University of Michigan is one of the top-ranked public research universities in the world, with particular strength in engineering, business (Ross School of Business), medicine, and the liberal arts. Michigan's Ann Arbor campus offers Big Ten energy, a vibrant college town, and one of the largest and most active alumni networks in the country.
Acceptance Rate: 18%
Average GPA: 3.9
Average ACT Composite: 31-34
Average SAT Composite: 1400-1550
Average Net Price: $17,832
Number of Students: 52,065

27. University of Southern California

Brief Description: USC is a leading private research university in Los Angeles, renowned for its School of Cinematic Arts (the #1 film school in the world), the Marshall School of Business, and the Viterbi School of Engineering. USC's Trojan alumni network is one of the most influential in entertainment, tech, and finance, especially on the West Coast.
Acceptance Rate: 10%
Average GPA: 3.87
Average ACT Composite: 32-35
Average SAT Composite: 1440-1530
Average Net Price: $36,161
Number of Students: 49,318

28. University of Notre Dame

Brief Description: Notre Dame is a highly selective private Catholic research university with top-ranked programs in business (Mendoza College of Business), engineering, arts and letters, and pre-professional advising. Known for its iconic campus, Fighting Irish football, and unmatched alumni loyalty, Notre Dame consistently ranks among the top 20 national universities.
Acceptance Rate: 12%
Average GPA: 4.11
Average ACT Composite: 32-35
Average SAT Composite: 1400-1550
Average Net Price: $31,726
Number of Students: 12,809

29. Northeastern University

Brief Description: Northeastern University is a private research university in Boston famous for its co-op program, which integrates six-month paid professional placements into the undergraduate experience. With a 6% acceptance rate, Northeastern is one of the most competitive schools in the country — a true reach for 3.7 GPA students, but reachable with strong supplementals.
Acceptance Rate: 6%
Average GPA: 4.11
Average ACT Composite: 32-35
Average SAT Composite: 1430-1540
Average Net Price: $29,587
Number of Students: 27,534

30. Boston University

Brief Description: Boston University is a major private research university on Commonwealth Avenue in Boston, offering strong programs in communications (COM), business (Questrom School), engineering, and pre-med. BU's location along the Charles River and its deep integration with the city of Boston create an urban college experience unmatched by most peers.
Acceptance Rate: 11%
Average GPA: 3.89
Average ACT Composite: 30-34
Average SAT Composite: 1330-1500
Average Net Price: $29,154
Number of Students: 37,557

31. Emory University

Brief Description: Emory University is a top-ranked private research university in Atlanta, with particular strength in pre-med, public health (Rollins School of Public Health), business (Goizueta Business School), and the liberal arts. Emory's partnership with the CDC and Emory Healthcare gives undergraduates unmatched access to public health and clinical research opportunities.
Acceptance Rate: 11%
Average GPA: 3.8
Average ACT Composite: 32-35
Average SAT Composite: 1400-1530
Average Net Price: $27,683
Number of Students: 15,846

32. University of Miami

Brief Description: The University of Miami (UM) is a private research university in Coral Gables, Florida, known for its Rosenstiel School of Marine, Atmospheric, and Earth Science, the Miami Herbert Business School, and the School of Communication. UM's tropical location, strong athletic culture, and access to Miami's growing tech and entertainment scene make it a distinctive choice.
Acceptance Rate: 19%
Average GPA: 3.8
Average ACT Composite: 29-33
Average SAT Composite: 1300-1460
Average Net Price: $34,492
Number of Students: 19,593

33. Tulane University

Brief Description: Tulane University is a highly selective private research university in New Orleans, with standout programs in business (A. B. Freeman School), public health, architecture, and the liberal arts. Tulane is known for its strong service ethic (public service is a graduation requirement), its Mardi Gras-infused campus culture, and its walkable St. Charles Avenue campus.
Acceptance Rate: 14.6%
Average GPA: 3.7
Average ACT Composite: 30-33
Average SAT Composite: 1350-1490
Average Net Price: $38,816
Number of Students: 14,464

34. University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign

Brief Description: UIUC is one of the top public research universities in the country, with world-class programs in engineering, computer science, agriculture, and business (Gies College of Business). The Grainger College of Engineering ranks among the top 10 nationally, and UIUC's computer science department has produced founders and engineers at nearly every major tech company.
Acceptance Rate: 43.7%
Average GPA: 3.94
Average ACT Composite: 27-33
Average SAT Composite: 1200-1460
Average Net Price: $13,517
Number of Students: 56,916

35. University of Maryland, College Park

Brief Description: The University of Maryland is Maryland's flagship public research university, located just 8 miles from Washington, D.C. UMD is particularly strong in business (Robert H. Smith School of Business), engineering (A. James Clark School), computer science, and public policy. The Terrapin network is massive across the D.C. corridor, offering internship pipelines to federal agencies, think tanks, and tech firms.
Acceptance Rate: 45%
Average GPA: 4.45
Average ACT Composite: 29-33
Average SAT Composite: 1280-1470
Average Net Price: $16,364
Number of Students: 40,792

36. Purdue University

Brief Description: Purdue University in West Lafayette is a nationally ranked public research institution known for its engineering, agriculture, aviation, and computer science programs. Purdue's College of Engineering is consistently ranked among the top 10 in the country, and the university boasts 24 astronaut alumni — more than any other university.
Acceptance Rate: 50%
Average GPA: 3.8
Average ACT Composite: 26-32
Average SAT Composite: 1180-1410
Average Net Price: $13,608
Number of Students: 52,211

37. Indiana University Bloomington

Brief Description: Indiana University Bloomington is consistently ranked among the most beautiful public university campuses and offers top-tier programs through the Kelley School of Business, the Jacobs School of Music, and the Hamilton Lugar School of Global and International Studies. IU Bloomington balances Big Ten scale with classic Midwestern college-town charm.
Acceptance Rate: 80%
Average GPA: 3.78
Average ACT Composite: 25-31
Average SAT Composite: 1150-1360
Average Net Price: $13,191
Number of Students: 47,005

38. Michigan State University

Brief Description: Michigan State University is a Big Ten research powerhouse in East Lansing, known for its Eli Broad College of Business (top-ranked supply chain program), the College of Communication Arts and Sciences, and one of the largest study-abroad programs in the country. MSU's rolling admissions and strong scholarship aid make it attractive for out-of-state students.
Acceptance Rate: 84%
Average GPA: 3.8
Average ACT Composite: 23-29
Average SAT Composite: 1120-1310
Average Net Price: $16,655
Number of Students: 51,316

39. University of Colorado Boulder

Brief Description: CU Boulder is a major public research university nestled at the base of the Rocky Mountains, offering strong programs in aerospace engineering, environmental studies, business (Leeds School of Business), and the natural sciences. CU Boulder has produced five Nobel Prize–winning faculty and maintains the nation's largest NASA-funded space research program.
Acceptance Rate: 81.1%
Average GPA: 3.76
Average ACT Composite: 25-31
Average SAT Composite: 1170-1360
Average Net Price: $22,225
Number of Students: 38,644

40. University of Massachusetts Amherst

Brief Description: UMass Amherst is the flagship of the UMass system and a strong public research university with standout programs in computer science, engineering, and business (Isenberg School of Management). UMass students also benefit from the Five College Consortium, which provides access to courses at Amherst, Smith, Mount Holyoke, and Hampshire Colleges.
Acceptance Rate: 58%
Average GPA: 4.07
Average ACT Composite: 26-32
Average SAT Composite: 1200-1370
Average Net Price: $21,281
Number of Students: 32,229

41. Auburn University

Brief Description: Auburn University is Alabama's largest land-grant university and an SEC staple, with particularly strong programs in engineering (Samuel Ginn College of Engineering), veterinary medicine, agriculture, and architecture. The Auburn campus is defined by football Saturdays, the Toomer's Corner oak-rolling tradition, and warm Southern hospitality.
Acceptance Rate: 50%
Average GPA: 4.07
Average ACT Composite: 25-31
Average SAT Composite: 1150-1320
Average Net Price: $24,028
Number of Students: 33,015

42. University of Alabama

Brief Description: The University of Alabama in Tuscaloosa is a major SEC flagship known for its Crimson Tide football program, the Honors College, Culverhouse College of Business, and Capstone College of Nursing. UA's generous automatic merit scholarships for out-of-state students make it one of the best financial values among flagship universities.
Acceptance Rate: 76%
Average GPA: 3.87
Average ACT Composite: 23-31
Average SAT Composite: 1070-1370
Average Net Price: $20,518
Number of Students: 38,644

43. Loyola Marymount University

Brief Description: Loyola Marymount University (LMU) is a private Jesuit research university perched on a bluff overlooking the Pacific Ocean in Los Angeles. LMU is known for its School of Film and Television, the College of Business Administration, and its tight-knit, mission-driven community. Students value LMU's combination of academic rigor, spiritual grounding, and Southern California lifestyle.
Acceptance Rate: 40%
Average GPA: 4.01
Average ACT Composite: 26-30
Average SAT Composite: 1230-1410
Average Net Price: $43,092
Number of Students: 10,237

44. Middlebury College

Brief Description: Middlebury College is a top-ranked liberal arts college in rural Vermont, renowned worldwide for its language programs, international studies, and environmental studies. Middlebury's famous Language Schools and the Middlebury Institute of International Studies at Monterey create unique global study opportunities unavailable at most peer schools.
Acceptance Rate: 10%
Average GPA: 4.04
Average ACT Composite: 31-34
Average SAT Composite: 1370-1520
Average Net Price: $24,070
Number of Students: 2,781

45. Creighton University

Brief Description: Creighton University is a private Jesuit university in Omaha, Nebraska, with particularly strong pre-health programs and direct connections to its own medical, dental, pharmacy, and nursing schools. Creighton offers early assurance pathways for high-achieving students pursuing careers in medicine and other health fields.
Acceptance Rate: 72%
Average GPA: 3.9
Average ACT Composite: 25-31
Average SAT Composite: 1170-1360
Average Net Price: $32,355
Number of Students: 8,820

46. North Carolina State University

Brief Description: North Carolina State University in Raleigh is a top public research university with standout programs in engineering, agriculture, textiles, and veterinary medicine. NC State sits in the heart of the Research Triangle — alongside Duke and UNC Chapel Hill — giving students access to one of the most concentrated research and tech corridors in the country.
Acceptance Rate: 40%
Average GPA: 3.9
Average ACT Composite: 27-32
Average SAT Composite: 1210-1410
Average Net Price: $16,520
Number of Students: 36,700

47. Drexel University

Brief Description: Drexel University is a private research university in Philadelphia known for its demanding co-op program, which integrates up to 18 months of full-time professional experience into the undergraduate curriculum. Drexel is particularly strong in engineering, business (LeBow College of Business), and design (Westphal College of Media Arts & Design).
Acceptance Rate: 77.5%
Average GPA: 3.8
Average ACT Composite: 26-31
Average SAT Composite: 1190-1370
Average Net Price: $39,390
Number of Students: 22,730

48. Baylor University

Brief Description: Baylor University in Waco, Texas, is the largest Baptist university in the world and a Big 12 research institution. Baylor is particularly strong in pre-health fields (pre-med, pre-dental, pre-PA), the Hankamer School of Business, and the Louise Herrington School of Nursing. Its Christian-faith integration distinguishes it from most other Texas research universities.
Acceptance Rate: 51%
Average GPA: 3.67
Average ACT Composite: 26-31
Average SAT Composite: 1210-1390
Average Net Price: $38,372
Number of Students: 20,709

49. Stevens Institute of Technology

Brief Description: Stevens Institute of Technology is a private STEM-focused research university in Hoboken, New Jersey, directly across the Hudson River from Manhattan. Stevens is known for its engineering, computer science, business (Howe School), and quantitative finance programs. The proximity to NYC creates unmatched internship access in finance, tech, and engineering.
Acceptance Rate: 43%
Average GPA: 3.89
Average ACT Composite: 30-33
Average SAT Composite: 1340-1500
Average Net Price: $37,595
Number of Students: 8,512

50. Florida State University

Brief Description: Florida State University in Tallahassee is a major public research university known for its film school (one of the top-ranked in the country), the College of Motion Picture Arts, the College of Business, and strong athletic traditions. FSU's affordable in-state tuition, merit aid for out-of-state students, and central Florida location make it an attractive flagship option.
Acceptance Rate: 25%
Average GPA: 4.0
Average ACT Composite: 26-30
Average SAT Composite: 1230-1350
Average Net Price: $12,815
Number of Students: 45,493

How to Improve Your Admissions Chances with a 3.7 GPA

While a 3.7 GPA is a solid start, you don’t want to neglect the rest of your application. Here are some tips to improve your admissions chances, especially for more competitive schools:

Take Advantage of Your Free Time:

Stay engaged and learning, even when you have a break from school. Try to find an after-school internship or summer program near you. Proactive students can even consider finding a job. College admissions officers love to see that students understand the value of hard work and real-world experiences.

Strong Test Scores:

If you’re aiming for top-tier universities, high SAT or ACT scores can significantly boost your application. Aim for scores that are above the average range for your target schools. Even if a college doesn’t consider standardized test scores, you may be able to submit AP, IB, or other subject tests to support your application.

Extracurricular Leadership

Admissions officers want to see students who are leaders, and one of the best ways to demonstrate your potential is through extracurricular activities. Look for clubs, student organizations, and volunteer opportunities that you care about. Then, find a way to make an impact and pursue leadership roles. Going above and beyond in extracurricular activities is a great way to demonstrate your passion and drive.

Compelling Personal Statement

Your personal essay is your opportunity to highlight your personality and passion while also demonstrating your ability to communicate nuanced ideas. Write strong, compelling arguments that show colleges you’re ready to write at a university level–while helping admissions officers get to know you better.

Build Relationships with Mentors

Letters of recommendation play a huge role in college admissions. Make sure you’ve built strong relationships with mentors who can write glowing endorsements, like summer program supervisors, bosses, school counselors, and teachers! When it comes time to request letters of recommendation, ask early and provide plenty of information to make the process smooth. (Don’t forget to write a thank you note!)

Demonstrate Interest

Some schools consider demonstrated interest when making admissions decisions; they want to know that you are actually excited about their school. Show your enthusiasm by attending virtual tours, engaging with admissions officers, and participating in campus events. You can also consider applying Early Decision or Early Action to your top choice schools.

Stand Out with Empowerly

A 3.7 GPA opens up a world of possibilities for college-bound students. With a range of colleges ready to accept students with this GPA, your academic future is bright. However, while your GPA is important, you need a well-rounded application that showcases your strengths and passion to stand out. Empowerly can help.

Empowerly’s expert college counselors know how to help you build strong admissions profiles, from compelling essays to balanced course loads, to make you a top tier candidate. We offer personalized, one-on-one guidance throughout the college application process. From identifying the best colleges for your GPA to crafting a standout application, Empowerly is dedicated to helping you achieve your academic dreams. Reach out today and take the next step toward your college future!

Book A Free Consultation

FAQs

Is a 3.7 GPA good enough for college?

A 3.7 GPA is well above the national average and positions you competitively for many colleges, including highly selective institutions.

What types of colleges can I get into with a 3.7 GPA?

With a 3.7 GPA, you can aim for a wide range of schools, from strong public universities to selective private institutions

What else matters besides GPA in college applications?

Colleges look at a range of factors, including standardized test scores, extracurricular activities, personal essays, and letters of recommendation, when they make admissions decisions. Your 3.7 GPA is a strong start, but it isn’t a guarantee of acceptance.

How can I improve my chances of getting accepted with a 3.7 GPA?

Make sure that the other parts of your application are as strong as your GPA. Improving your test scores, engaging in meaningful extracurriculars, and writing a standout personal essay will enhance your application.

What resources can help me find colleges that accept a 3.7 GPA?

College counseling services, like Empowerly, can provide personalized advice and help you find schools that match your profile.

I have a lower GPA than 3.7. Are there still colleges I can apply to?

Yes. Many schools take a holistic approach to admissions and will consider other factors beyond GPA, such as your personal story, extracurriculars, and test scores.

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