Sitting at a 3.3 GPA? You have options.
A 3.3 GPA is above the U.S. average (3.0) and signals steady performance. Your chances rise when you pair it with course rigor, smart testing, and clear interests.
In this guide, youāll see 105 colleges where a 3.3 can be viable, detailed profiles for top choices, and concrete steps to raise your GPA odds as testing policies shift.
Youāll leave with a realistic list and a plan.
Is a 3.3 GPA Good for College Admissions?
Yes.
A 3.3 GPA (about a B+ average) sits above the national average. Admissions officers always read it in context, looking at the classes behind the number. A 3.3 with honors, AP, IB, or dual enrollment is much stronger than the same GPA in only standard courses.
Fit depends on the college tier. Many public universities and regional private schools admit students with a 3.3, while state flagships may view it as competitive if paired with solid test scores and rigorous coursework.
At highly selective colleges, a 3.3 is usually a reach unless you bring standout strengths in other areas.
How colleges view a 3.3 GPA
| College Type | Example Schools | How a 3.3 is viewed |
| Public regionals & broad-access publics | Western Michigan, UNC Greensboro, Boise State | Often competitive, especially with consistent grades and some rigor. |
| State flagships & mid-selective privates | UConn, Cincinnati, Oregon, DePaul | Possible with rigor, strong essays, and testing if required/encouraged. |
| Highly selective / Top-25 | Georgia Tech, UCLA, Notre Dame | Reach. A 3.3 needs exceptional rigor, testing, and impact to compete. |
What lifts a 3.3: upward grade trend, challenging junior/senior schedule, strong SAT/ACT (where considered), and a clear activity āspikeā tied to your major interest.
What Colleges Can You Get Into with a 3.3 GPA?
A 3.3 GPA puts you above the national high school average and keeps you competitive for many public universities and regional private colleges.
While it may not be high enough for the most selective schools, plenty of campuses view a 3.3 as a solid record ā especially if it comes with rigorous coursework or upward grade trends.
The list below highlights 105 colleges where students with a 3.3 are commonly admitted.
For each, youāll find key admissions data ā including acceptance rates, average SAT/ACT scores, net price, and GPA benchmarks ā so you can compare options and start building a realistic college list.
Here are the schools where a 3.3 GPA can work in your favor:
| College Name | Location | Average GPA | Acceptance Rate | Average SAT Composite | Average ACT Composite | Net Price |
| Alabama | ||||||
| University of Alabama | Tuscaloosa, AL | 3.3 | 80% | 1190 | 24 | $19,700 |
| Alaska | ||||||
| University of Alaska Anchorage | Anchorage, AK | 3.3 | 76% | 1070 | 21 | $12,600 |
| Arizona | ||||||
| University of Arizona | Tucson, AZ | 3.3 | 85% | 1210 | 25 | $15,600 |
| Arizona State University | Tempe, AZ | 3.3 | 86% | 1230 | 25 | $14,100 |
| Northern Arizona University | Flagstaff, AZ | 3.3 | 85% | 1130 | 22 | $15,500 |
| Arkansas | ||||||
| University of Arkansas | Fayetteville, AR | 3.3 | 83% | 1170 | 24 | $15,900 |
| Arkansas State University | Jonesboro, AR | 3.3 | 90% | 1090 | 21 | $12,300 |
| University of Central Arkansas | Conway, AR | 3.3 | 91% | 1090 | 22 | $12,500 |
| California | ||||||
| California State University, Long Beach | Long Beach, CA | 3.3 | 39% | 1120 | 22 | $9,700 |
| California State University, Fresno | Fresno, CA | 3.3 | 58% | 1100 | 22 | $9,400 |
| San Diego State University | San Diego, CA | 3.3 | 37% | 1210 | 26 | $14,300 |
| California State University, Sacramento | Sacramento, CA | 3.3 | 83% | 1100 | 22 | $9,800 |
| Sonoma State University | Rohnert Park, CA | 3.3 | 82% | 1090 | 21 | $15,000 |
| California State University, Chico | Chico, CA | 3.3 | 89% | 1100 | 22 | $12,300 |
| Colorado | ||||||
| University of Colorado Boulder | Boulder, CO | 3.3 | 78% | 1250 | 26 | $21,100 |
| Colorado State University | Fort Collins, CO | 3.3 | 84% | 1180 | 25 | $17,900 |
| University of Northern Colorado | Greeley, CO | 3.3 | 89% | 1080 | 21 | $14,200 |
| Connecticut | ||||||
| University of Connecticut | Storrs, CT | 3.3 | 48% | 1230 | 27 | $19,200 |
| Delaware | ||||||
| University of Delaware | Newark, DE | 3.3 | 67% | 1220 | 25 | $17,000 |
| Florida | ||||||
| Florida International University | Miami, FL | 3.3 | 58% | 1150 | 24 | $9,900 |
| University of Central Florida | Orlando, FL | 3.3 | 45% | 1250 | 26 | $11,500 |
| Florida Atlantic University | Boca Raton, FL | 3.3 | 75% | 1130 | 23 | $10,300 |
| Georgia | ||||||
| Georgia Southern University | Statesboro, GA | 3.3 | 91% | 1100 | 22 | $14,400 |
| Valdosta State University | Valdosta, GA | 3.3 | 78% | 1050 | 20 | $13,600 |
| Idaho | ||||||
| University of Idaho | Moscow, ID | 3.3 | 81% | 1100 | 22 | $15,100 |
| Boise State University | Boise, ID | 3.3 | 81% | 1120 | 23 | $14,700 |
| Illinois | ||||||
| Southern Illinois University | Carbondale, IL | 3.3 | 92% | 1090 | 22 | $15,400 |
| Western Illinois University | Macomb, IL | 3.3 | 58% | 1050 | 20 | $14,800 |
| Eastern Illinois University | Charleston, IL | 3.3 | 63% | 1030 | 20 | $14,400 |
| DePaul University | Chicago, IL | 3.3 | 68% | 1130 | 23 | $30,600 |
| Indiana | ||||||
| Indiana University Bloomington | Bloomington, IN | 3.3 | 80% | 1180 | 24 | $13,100 |
| Ball State University | Muncie, IN | 3.3 | 89% | 1130 | 23 | $13,500 |
| Iowa | ||||||
| University of Iowa | Iowa City, IA | 3.3 | 84% | 1190 | 25 | $17,300 |
| Kansas | ||||||
| University of Kansas | Lawrence, KS | 3.3 | 93% | 1200 | 25 | $18,400 |
| Kansas State University | Manhattan, KS | 3.3 | 94% | 1130 | 23 | $18,700 |
| Kentucky | ||||||
| University of Louisville | Louisville, KY | 3.3 | 69% | 1170 | 24 | $17,200 |
| Northern Kentucky University | Highland Heights, KY | 3.3 | 89% | 1100 | 22 | $10,800 |
| Louisiana | ||||||
| Louisiana State University | Baton Rouge, LA | 3.3 | 74% | 1190 | 25 | $20,100 |
| University of Louisiana at Lafayette | Lafayette, LA | 3.3 | 67% | 1090 | 22 | $11,700 |
| Maine | ||||||
| University of Maine | Orono, ME | 3.3 | 92% | 1080 | 22 | $17,500 |
| Maryland | ||||||
| University of Maryland Eastern Shore | Princess Anne, MD | 3.3 | 54% | 1030 | 20 | $15,400 |
| Massachusetts | ||||||
| University of Massachusetts Amherst | Amherst, MA | 3.3 | 65% | 1290 | 27 | $21,800 |
| Worcester State University | Worcester, MA | 3.3 | 78% | 1100 | 22 | $14,200 |
| Michigan | ||||||
| Central Michigan University | Mount Pleasant, MI | 3.3 | 77% | 1090 | 22 | $15,800 |
| Eastern Michigan University | Ypsilanti, MI | 3.3 | 75% | 1070 | 21 | $15,100 |
| Western Michigan University | Kalamazoo, MI | 3.3 | 80% | 1120 | 23 | $16,900 |
| Minnesota | ||||||
| University of Minnesota Duluth | Duluth, MN | 3.3 | 76% | 1130 | 24 | $17,400 |
| Winona State University | Winona, MN | 3.3 | 68% | 1100 | 22 | $15,600 |
| Missouri | ||||||
| Missouri State University | Springfield, MO | 3.3 | 85% | 1110 | 23 | $16,000 |
| Montana | ||||||
| University of Montana | Missoula, MT | 3.3 | 92% | 1080 | 22 | $14,600 |
| Nebraska | ||||||
| University of Nebraska-Lincoln | Lincoln, NE | 3.3 | 79% | 1180 | 25 | $17,800 |
| Nevada | ||||||
| University of Nevada, Reno | Reno, NV | 3.3 | 88% | 1160 | 24 | $16,100 |
| New Hampshire | ||||||
| University of New Hampshire | Durham, NH | 3.3 | 85% | 1180 | 24 | $21,400 |
| New Jersey | ||||||
| Kean University | Union, NJ | 3.3 | 69% | 1060 | 21 | $15,300 |
| Montclair State University | Montclair, NJ | 3.3 | 77% | 1100 | 22 | $15,500 |
| New Mexico | ||||||
| University of New Mexico | Albuquerque, NM | 3.3 | 94% | 1080 | 22 | $11,700 |
| North Carolina | ||||||
| University of North Carolina at Greensboro | Greensboro, NC | 3.3 | 82% | 1130 | 23 | $11,300 |
| East Carolina University | Greenville, NC | 3.3 | 82% | 1130 | 22 | $13,800 |
| Appalachian State University | Boone, NC | 3.3 | 80% | 1180 | 25 | $12,800 |
| North Dakota | ||||||
| University of North Dakota | Grand Forks, ND | 3.3 | 82% | 1120 | 22 | $15,400 |
| North Dakota State University | Fargo, ND | 3.3 | 88% | 1130 | 23 | $15,700 |
| Ohio | ||||||
| University of Akron | Akron, OH | 3.3 | 93% | 1100 | 22 | $16,200 |
| Bowling Green State University | Bowling Green, OH | 3.3 | 88% | 1090 | 22 | $16,800 |
| Ohio University | Athens, OH | 3.3 | 87% | 1150 | 24 | $17,100 |
| University of Toledo | Toledo, OH | 3.3 | 94% | 1100 | 22 | $16,400 |
| Oklahoma | ||||||
| University of Oklahoma | Norman, OK | 3.3 | 80% | 1160 | 24 | $19,600 |
| Oklahoma State University | Stillwater, OK | 3.3 | 70% | 1120 | 23 | $16,200 |
| Oregon | ||||||
| University of Oregon | Eugene, OR | 3.3 | 82% | 1180 | 24 | $17,800 |
| Portland State University | Portland, OR | 3.3 | 98% | 1080 | 22 | $13,400 |
| Pennsylvania | ||||||
| Pennsylvania State University | University Park, PA | 3.3 | 54% | 1250 | 27 | $25,300 |
| Indiana University of Pennsylvania | Indiana, PA | 3.3 | 92% | 1080 | 22 | $19,400 |
| Duquesne University | Pittsburgh, PA | 3.3 | 72% | 1140 | 24 | $30,200 |
| Rhode Island | ||||||
| University of Rhode Island | Kingston, RI | 3.3 | 76% | 1150 | 24 | $19,000 |
| South Carolina | ||||||
| College of Charleston | Charleston, SC | 3.3 | 74% | 1180 | 25 | $19,500 |
| University of South Carolina Upstate | Spartanburg, SC | 3.3 | 58% | 1060 | 21 | $11,400 |
| South Dakota | ||||||
| University of South Dakota | Vermillion, SD | 3.3 | 86% | 1130 | 22 | $17,500 |
| Tennessee | ||||||
| University of Tennessee at Chattanooga | Chattanooga, TN | 3.3 | 83% | 1100 | 22 | $13,800 |
| East Tennessee State University | Johnson City, TN | 3.3 | 86% | 1090 | 21 | $13,300 |
| Middle Tennessee State University | Murfreesboro, TN | 3.3 | 94% | 1080 | 21 | $11,200 |
| Texas | ||||||
| Texas State University | San Marcos, TX | 3.3 | 85% | 1110 | 23 | $13,700 |
| Sam Houston State University | Huntsville, TX | 3.3 | 85% | 1100 | 22 | $12,600 |
| University of Texas at Arlington | Arlington, TX | 3.3 | 79% | 1140 | 23 | $14,300 |
| Utah | ||||||
| University of Utah | Salt Lake City, UT | 3.3 | 62% | 1190 | 25 | $14,900 |
| Southern Utah University | Cedar City, UT | 3.3 | 78% | 1100 | 22 | $11,700 |
| Utah Valley University | Orem, UT | 3.3 | 100% | 1080 | 21 | $9,500 |
| Vermont | ||||||
| University of Vermont | Burlington, VT | 3.3 | 67% | 1180 | 25 | $21,000 |
| Virginia | ||||||
| Old Dominion University | Norfolk, VA | 3.3 | 89% | 1100 | 22 | $17,500 |
| Virginia Commonwealth University | Richmond, VA | 3.3 | 91% | 1130 | 23 | $19,300 |
| Washington | ||||||
| University of Washington Tacoma | Tacoma, WA | 3.3 | 86% | 1140 | 23 | $12,400 |
| Wisconsin | ||||||
| University of Wisconsin-Milwaukee | Milwaukee, WI | 3.3 | 93% | 1110 | 22 | $14,900 |
| Wyoming | ||||||
| University of Wyoming | Laramie, WY | 3.3 | 94% | 1110 | 23 | $12,800 |
Detailed Profiles of the Top 20 Colleges That Accept a 3.3 GPA
With a 3.3 GPA, youāll want to know not just who admits students at your level, but what each campus offers academically, socially, and financially.
Below, youāll find 20 universities where a 3.3 can keep you competitive, along with details on acceptance rates, test score ranges, net price, and student body size.
Use these profiles to compare strengths and decide which schools fit your goals.
1. University of Alabama
The University of Alabama is a flagship SEC school with nationally ranked programs in business, engineering, and communications.
With a 3.3 GPA, you fall into the competitive range for admission, especially if youāve taken a balanced mix of college-prep or AP courses.
Students who also submit strong test scores or show involvement in leadership and activities stand out even more.
- 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
2. University of Arizona
Located in Tucson, the University of Arizona blends research opportunities with a lively campus culture. Its strengths include business, engineering, and environmental sciences.
A 3.3 GPA is right in line with admitted students here, and many applicants strengthen their profile by pairing it with consistent test scores or extracurricular involvement in STEM or service programs.
- 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
3. University of Arkansas
The University of Arkansas in Fayetteville offers strong business, agriculture, and engineering programs, all set in a scenic Ozark Mountain location.
Students with a 3.3 GPA are well within the admitted range, and demonstrating upward grade trends in junior or senior year can make your application even stronger.
Scholarship opportunities are available for in-state and out-of-state students.
- 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
4. California State University, Long Beach
CSU Long Beach is one of the most popular public universities in California, with strengths in engineering, arts, and health sciences.
Admission is more selective than many other CSU campuses, so a 3.3 GPA will be competitive if combined with rigorous courses or strong local priority admission.
Students often highlight extracurriculars or community service to help balance GPA.
- 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
5. University of Colorado Boulder
Set against the Rocky Mountains, CU Boulder is well known for programs in business, engineering, and environmental sciences.
A 3.3 GPA can be competitive, though applicants with higher-level math or science coursework will be stronger candidates for STEM majors. Students benefit from a research-heavy campus and vibrant college-town environment.
- 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
6. University of South Florida
Based in Tampa, USF is one of Floridaās fastest-growing research universities. With strong offerings in health sciences, engineering, and business, it provides big opportunities in a metropolitan setting.
Students with a 3.3 GPA are competitive, and USF often values applicants with strong extracurricular involvement or upward academic trends.
- 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
7. Indiana University Bloomington
IU Bloomington is the flagship of Indiana, best known for its Kelley School of Business and Jacobs School of Music.
With a 3.3 GPA, you are within the admission range, but higher rigor or strong testing will help for competitive majors like business. The large campus environment also offers diverse programs and opportunities to explore interests.
- 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
8. University of Iowa
Located in Iowa City, the University of Iowa is nationally known for its writing programs and strong medical school connections.
A 3.3 GPA matches many admitted students, and demonstrating interest in a specific program like health sciences or communications can boost your profile.
The schoolās supportive community makes it a strong fit for steady academic performers.
- 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
9. University of Kansas
The University of Kansas offers more than 400 degree programs with top strengths in pharmacy, education, and engineering.
A 3.3 GPA places you in a competitive spot for admission. KUās high acceptance rate means students who also submit solid ACT or SAT scores may be considered for additional merit awards.
- 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
10. University of Kentucky
The University of Kentucky is the stateās flagship, with strong programs in agriculture, health sciences, and engineering. Students with a 3.3 GPA are solidly in range here.
Admissions committees also value evidence of growth in GPA, AP/IB coursework, and participation in extracurricular activities that highlight leadership and initiative.
- 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
11. University of Massachusetts Amherst
UMass Amherst is the flagship of the UMass system and a top public research university in New England. Its computer science, business, and engineering programs are nationally recognized.
With a 3.3 GPA, youāre within the admitted student profile, though more competitive majors may expect higher rigor or test scores. The Five College Consortium also allows students to take courses at nearby Amherst, Smith, Mount Holyoke, and Hampshire Colleges, expanding opportunities.
- 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
12. Michigan State University
As one of the largest universities in the country, Michigan State University offers over 200 majors and strong programs in business, education, agriculture, and communication.
A 3.3 GPA falls well within the admission range, and the school values students who show steady academic performance and campus involvement.
The Big Ten atmosphere provides both academic and extracurricular opportunities, from research to athletics.
- 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
13. University of Mississippi
Ole Miss is known for its historic campus in Oxford and strong programs in law, journalism, and business.
A 3.3 GPA is competitive here, especially when paired with upward trends or rigorous coursework in core subjects. Students can expect a tight-knit community with a vibrant social and cultural environment.
- 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
14. University of Missouri
The University of Missouri, or Mizzou, is the stateās flagship and home to one of the most prestigious journalism schools in the nation. Business, engineering, and health sciences are also strong.
A 3.3 GPA puts you squarely in the competitive range, and demonstrated interest or strong essays can further support your application. The campus in Columbia offers a balance of academic rigor and SEC spirit.
- 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
15. University of NebraskaāLincoln
UNL is Nebraskaās flagship institution, with standout programs in agriculture, engineering, and business.
A 3.3 GPA makes you a strong candidate for admission, and students with consistent grades are often eligible for merit scholarships. The Big Ten environment combines academic opportunity with spirited athletics and a welcoming Midwestern 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
16. University of New Hampshire
UNH in Durham is well regarded for its marine biology, environmental science, and business programs.
A 3.3 GPA is competitive here, especially if supported by relevant coursework in science or math. The scenic campus and strong research culture provide a close-knit environment where steady academic performers thrive.
- 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
17. University of Cincinnati
UC is a major urban research university known for its nationally ranked co-op programs in engineering, business, and design.
A 3.3 GPA puts you within the admitted range, and demonstrating career focus or applied learning experience strengthens your profile. Students here gain real-world experience through co-op placements that set them apart after graduation.
- 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
18. University of Oklahoma
OU offers strong programs in petroleum engineering, meteorology, and business, alongside a rich tradition of campus spirit.
With a 3.3 GPA, youāre in a solid position for admission. Demonstrating strength in math or science can improve chances for selective majors, while leadership in activities highlights you as a well-rounded applicant.
- 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
19. University of Oregon
The University of Oregon in Eugene is especially strong in journalism, business, and environmental studies.
A 3.3 GPA is competitive here, but stronger course rigor or testing will help for more selective majors. Students benefit from a lively campus environment with a focus on sustainability and a classic Pacific Northwest culture.
- 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
20. University of Tennessee
The University of Tennessee, Knoxville, is the stateās flagship and offers strong programs in engineering, agriculture, and business.
With a 3.3 GPA, youāre within the competitive range, especially if you highlight rigor in math and science.
The spirited SEC atmosphere and supportive faculty make it a well-rounded choice for many students.
- 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
How to Improve Your Admissions Chances with a 3.3 GPA
A 3.3 GPA puts you in a solid position at many colleges, but you can strengthen your profile even more. If youāre targeting schools where the average admitted GPA is higher, youāll need to show growth, rigor, and impact beyond the classroom.
The strategies below explain how students with a 3.3 can raise their odds and make their applications stand out.
1. Take Rigorous Classes
Colleges look beyond GPA numbers to see how you challenged yourself. A 3.3 in regular classes is less impressive than the same GPA in AP, IB, or honors courses. If your school offers advanced classes, try to take them in subjects that match your strengths.
For example, AP English if youāre a strong writer, or AP Biology if youāre drawn to science. Even if the grades are slightly lower, showing rigor proves that youāre willing to push yourself.
2. Use Test Scores to Strengthen Your Profile
Standardized test scores can balance out a 3.3 GPA, especially at mid-selective or flagship universities.
A 1250 SAT or 26 ACT, for example, shows colleges that youāre ready for their academic demands. If your scores are above the schoolās average, definitely submit them. If theyāre lower, take advantage of test-optional policies.
Either way, prepare carefully and test at least twice to maximize your chances.
3. Show Growth in Your Grades
Admissions officers like to see students who improve over time. If your GPA started lower but has risen to 3.3 by junior or senior year, highlight that upward trend. Colleges see this as evidence of maturity and resilience.
Strong grades in recent challenging classes, especially in your intended major, can carry more weight than earlier struggles.
Use your application to point out this growth and show that youāre on track for success in college.
4. Write a Strong Personal Essay
Your essay gives you the chance to show more than your GPA. A 3.3 is solid, but your story can explain the person behind the number. Use your essay to highlight your passions, challenges youāve overcome, or a turning point in your education.
Be specific: instead of saying you ālove science,ā describe the project or experience that sparked your interest. A focused essay can make admissions officers remember you long after theyāve forgotten your GPA.
5. Highlight Extracurricular Activities
Colleges want students who contribute outside the classroom. With a 3.3 GPA, strong extracurriculars can tip the balance in your favor.
Depth matters more than a long list: leading a club, building a community project, or excelling in music or sports shows commitment.
If possible, connect your activities to your intended major ā for example, joining robotics if you plan to study engineering. Leadership and consistency help admissions officers see your impact.
6. Ask for Strong Recommendations
A teacher who explains how you worked hard in a tough class, improved over time, or supported classmates can make a 3.3 GPA look even stronger. Choose recommenders who know you well, not just those who gave you the highest grades.
Give them plenty of time and share your goals so they can write in detail. Strong recommendations can turn your GPA into a story of persistence and growth.
7. Use the Additional Information Section
Applications like the Common App include an optional space for context. This is the place to briefly explain anything that affected your grades.
For example, a medical issue, family responsibility, or limited course options at your school. Keep it short and factual ā no excuses, just context.
This helps admissions officers understand your 3.3 GPA in the bigger picture of your high school experience.
8. Look for Merit Scholarships
Many colleges award automatic or competitive scholarships starting at a 3.3 GPA. Public universities like Arizona, Alabama, and Kentucky often publish scholarship grids that show the GPA and test scores needed for aid. Even some private schools use 3.3 as a starting point for merit awards.
Research each schoolās financial aid page and apply early, since funds can be limited. Scholarships tied to GPA can make a big difference in affordability.
9. Build a Balanced College List
With a 3.3 GPA, the key is applying to a mix of schools. Include reach schools where admission is possible but competitive, match schools where your GPA is right on target, and safety schools where youāre very likely to be admitted.
For example, Ohio University or DePaul might be solid matches, while Penn State could be a reach, and Western Michigan could serve as a safety. A balanced list ensures youāll have strong choices when decisions arrive.
Get Expert Guidance for Your Journey With a 3.3 GPA
A 3.3 GPA is more than enough to unlock solid college options. It shows consistent effort, and with the right mix of advanced classes, test scores, and activities, you can compete at many respected universities. The key is to build a list that reflects both your strengths and your goals.
Remember, admissions officers care about your entire story ā not just a number. Use your application to highlight your growth, curiosity, and contributions inside and outside the classroom. With careful planning, a 3.3 GPA can take you to a campus where youāll thrive.
If you want expert help building that path, Empowerly counselors specialize in guiding students with GPAs like yours. Weāll help you shape a strategy, find the best-fit schools, and strengthen every part of your application.
Book your FREE consultation today
FAQs About Applying With a 3.3 GPA
1. Is a 3.3 GPA good enough for college?
Yes. A 3.3 is above the national average (around 3.1) and is competitive at many public universities and private colleges. For highly selective schools, youāll need to show additional strengths.
2. What types of colleges accept a 3.3 GPA?
Plenty. Regional public universities, many state flagships, and mid-sized private schools regularly admit students with a 3.3. Some schools may offer merit scholarships starting at this GPA.
3. How can I make a 3.3 GPA look stronger?
Take the toughest classes you can handle, aim for solid SAT/ACT scores (if useful), and highlight leadership or long-term extracurriculars. Growth over time is also a big plus.
4. What else matters besides GPA?
Admissions are holistic. Colleges weigh rigor, test scores, essays, recommendations, and activities. A 3.3 paired with strong impact in other areas can be more compelling than a higher GPA alone.
5. Can I still get scholarships with a 3.3 GPA?
Yes. Many schools start merit awards around 3.3, especially if you add strong test scores. Public universities in states like Arizona, Kentucky, and Mississippi publish scholarship grids for GPA + score combos.
6. What if my GPA is lower than 3.3?
You still have good options. Many colleges admit students closer to 3.0, and transfer pathways from community colleges can lead to strong four-year universities. Admissions officers also weigh upward trends and context.
