<span>3.2 GPA Colleges: See Schools That Accept a 3.2 GPA</span>

3.2 GPA Colleges: See Schools That Accept a 3.2 GPA

Grade point average (GPA) is a measurement of academic performance through a cumulative average of all grades. A 3.2 GPA represents a B average and is a few tenths from a B+. Here we will explore what a 3.2 GPA means, its significance in academic and professional settings, and strategies for improving or maintaining this level of academic performance.

What is a 3.2 GPA?

A 3.2 GPA is a grade point average that falls between a B and a B- on the 4.0 grading scale commonly used in the United States. It represents a moderately good academic performance, indicating that the student has maintained above-average grades but may have some room for improvement.

Is a 3.2 GPA Good?

While a 3.2 GPA may not be considered outstanding, it still demonstrates a strong work ethic and dedication to academic success. Because of this, a 3.2 GPA means that you’ll have numerous college options, and your application will be competitive for admission at a sizable number of schools.

What percentile is a 3.2 GPA?

A 3.2 GPA is a straight B with a percentile of 87%.

What Colleges Can I Get Into With a 3.2 GPA?

A 3.2 GPA is a competitive academic record for a number of colleges and universities, and we’ve assembled a representative list below. Be aware that this GPA won’t automatically qualify for admission, but all of these schools have historically accepted students with GPAs in the 3.2-3.3 area.

If you’re in the midst of your freshman or sophomore year, keep doing the work needed to maintain a 3.2 GPA. This GPA level already exceeds the 3.0 competitive benchmark for a large number of colleges, so it’s important to maintain the study habits that earned that number in the first place. You also have time to set an ambitious goal in the upper end of the 3.0 range if there are any Ivy League institutions on your college dream list. Whatever your goal may be following high school graduation, make it a priority to join after-school clubs, participate in a sport, or find a community service project to take part in. Not only will this help you stand out as a well-rounded candidate for the college application process, but it could also lead to finding something you’re passionate about!

For juniors, there’s an added stressor: standardized testing. While it’s conceivable to improve a 3.2 GPA to a 3.5 before graduation, this may be a difficult year to try and accomplish the task. Remember that this is also when you need to start devoting study time to prepare for the ACT or SAT. Because most colleges weigh GPA and standardized test results fairly equally, ignoring one in order to concentrate on the other isn’t a good option. Pick up a book of practice tests and time yourself taking the exam to get used to the process for test day.

As for seniors, you’re in a great spot already. The fact of the matter is it would require straight As, a 4.0 semester GPA, to raise a cumulative 3.2 GPA by one-tenth of a point to a 3.3. A 3.3 doesn’t significantly change competitiveness, to be blunt, so focusing on the total package, your applications as a whole, is likely the best plan of attack at this point. If your SAT or ACT score isn’t exactly where you’d like it to be, sign up to retake the exam and rededicate study time toward improving that result. This is also a good time to visit your school’s college counselor and ask for their feedback on your college application, in particular, the essay portion. With a 3.2 GPA, a good essay and standardized test score will help ensure that you’re in a competitive position for admission at a wide variety of schools.

What Are Colleges Looking at Other Than High School GPA?

GPA is only one aspect that college admissions officers assess when reviewing applications. They want to hear more about you as an individual and see what makes you tick. A 3.2 is certainly going to catch many admissions offices’ eyes, but make sure you include as many of the following as possible to create a stellar application: 

How Can I Improve My 3.2 GPA?

To improve your GPA, you'll want to figure out what's been keeping you from getting the grades you've wanted so far. For general ideas, try a combination of studying more effectively, seeking additional help from teachers or tutors, and making sure you're doing all of your classwork and assignments. You can also consider taking more challenging weighted classes- but only if you're sure you can make A's in them. 

What scholarships can you get with a 3.2 GPA?

You’re eligible for a large number of scholarships with a 3.2 GPA. While some may require a 3.5 GPA or higher, the majority require a 3.0 as their minimum. Apply for plenty of scholarships prior to (and during) college to save some money on tuition! 

View All Scholarships

 

What is a Weighted vs. Unweighted GPA?

A weighted GPA considers the difficulty of the classes you take. Honors, Advanced Placement (AP), and International Baccalaureate (IB) classes typically have a higher weight, meaning that a higher grade in these classes will result in a higher GPA. A weighted GPA is often used in college admissions to assess the academic rigor of a student's high school curriculum.

An unweighted GPA, on the other hand, assigns a standard value to each letter grade regardless of the level of difficulty of the class. An A in an honors class is assigned the same value as an A in a regular class. An unweighted GPA is often used in high school to give a general overview of a student's academic performance.

Explore Colleges for Every GPA with Appily

Ready to explore colleges that accept a GPA like yours? We have a comprehensive database to help you find and research schools. There, you can see essential data points like acceptance rateaverage financial aid awardaverage test scores, and application deadlines, including those for rolling admissionearly decision, and early action schools. 

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Founded in 1866, Fisk University is a private HBCU and the oldest university in Nashville, Tennessee. Fisk University is a member of the United Negro College Fund and its Victorian architecture-style campus is recorded in the National Register of...

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At Fisk, professors aren't the only ones you learn from. It's the students.
I am reminded everyday that, I sit in class next to some of the brightest minds in the country!

” – Jamal from Stone Mountain, GA

Originally founded as The State College for Alameda County, California State University East Bay is a 4-year public university and a Bay Area-based campus in the Cal State system. Cal State East Bay is home to four colleges of Business, Science...

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I have learned a lot in the 10 weeks that I have attended so far. The class sizes are nice, and I haven;t had much trouble getting the classes that I want. I have done well my first quarter, and I think I owe credit to CSUEB for that,

” – Brittni from Riverside, CA

SUNY at Fredonia is a 4-year public liberal arts college in western New York State and part of the State University of New York system. Fredonia encompasses colleges of Liberal Arts, Education, Business, Music, and Performing Arts conferring...

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All the teachers make themselves available for the students 24/7. If they aren't in their office, they are always reachable by e-mail or phone. They have flexible schedules so if you can't meet with them during their office hours then they schedule a...

” – Amoree from Liverpool, NY

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Davenport University is a private institution based in Grand Rapids, Michigan. The school operates multiple satellite campuses throughout the state and online. Davenport offers small class sizes and some of the most affordable tuition in the state...

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The classes that I have taken at Davenport University have thus far been excellent. The focus that DU has on helping students to have a well-rounded education is obvious and beneficial. The professors are open to helping students; I enjoy the smaller...

” – Lauren from Hastings, MI

Located in Albany, the capital of New York, the College of Saint Rose is a liberal arts institution sponsored by the Sisters of Saint Joseph of Carondelet. This 4-year institution is located in the Pine Hill neighborhood, which is noted for its...

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I have learned alot about myself and the path I want to take in the future. I think that being able to change your major with such ease is a major part of my success. There are so many different classes to choose from that it is easy to explore...

” – Rochelle from esperance, NY

Holy Cross College offers a meaningful, contemporary liberal arts education rooted in the Catholic tradition. Open to all, the co-ed campus is located in Notre Dame, Indiana and was started by the Brothers of Holy Cross in 1966. The College offers 9...

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Every class I learn something new and I actually enjoy it way more than I did in high school. The teachers are really devoted to helping you learn while doing it in a fun way. You'll never be bored.

” – Christopher from South Bend, IN

Black Hills State University is a 4-year liberal arts institution situated on 123 acres of land in Spearfish, South Dakota. Through its three colleges, BHSU offers more than 120 majors and minors, as well as three honors tracks. Students can complete...

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I've only been here at Black Hills State for 2 months, however I have been learning a lot and the classes and class sizes are very accomidating and not too long or overcrowded.

” – LeeSah from Spearfish, SD

Prescott College is a private, non-profit, liberal arts college located in Prescott, Arizona. With a focus on social justice and the environment, the college favors intellectual exploration and community over academic hierarchy. Resident students at...

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This school offers me the ability to apply all of the courses I take, directly to my life experience as Galadriel. I can so easily make the connections between my courses and how they all work together to formulate the degree of my dream: Holistic...

” – Ariel from Wolfeboro, NH

Founded by the Sisters of Charity of New York, the University of Mount Saint Vincent is a Catholic liberal arts college in New York City. From its campus overlooking the Hudson River, the Mount offers undergrad degrees in over 70 academic programs...

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It is a wonderful school with great people who I know are forever friends. The school fosters education to its max as well as intergrating sports and socialization in. It is everything I dreamed a college to be.

” – Colleen from Manchester Center, VT

Concordia University Chicago is a private liberal arts institution based in River Forest, Illinois, with selective admissions. It is affiliated with the Lutheran Church-Missouri Synod and provides a curriculum focused on Jesus Christ. Popular fields...

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This college had provided me with the opportunity to take classes that no matter what the subject I learn a lot. My general courses and my specified classes are all very informational for life itself. The professors know how to relate life to the...

” – Heather from South St Paul, MN

Bemidji State University is a public institution located on the shore of Lake Bemidji in the rural town of Bemidji, Minnesota. BSU is a member of the Minnesota State Colleges and Universities system and has a “selective” admissions process. The...

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Im a second year freshman and the professors are nice and help the students that have questions. Some professors are confusing and drag on about 1 thing but studying with friends is helpful. friendly environment

” – Kayetoinette from Bemidji, MN

Shorter University is a private liberal arts institution associated with the Georgia Baptist Convention. The main campus is located in Rome, GA, and there is a satellite campus in Atlanta. Business administration and management, liberal arts and...

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shorter university is an amazing school. the class sizes are small, and the professors are very dedicated to your success.

” – jasmine from tallahassee, fl

Missouri Western State University is a public school based in Saint Joseph, MI. MWSU is one of the less than 500 colleges in the US with an ABET-accredited engineering programs. Upon admittance to Missouri Western students rub the head of the statue...

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When I started college in the fall of 2008 I was really unsure of what my major was going to be and what I wanted to do for the rest of my life. Taking the general studies classes at Missouri Western has really helps students figure out what they...

” – Bethany from Saint Joseph, MO

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Founded in 1837, Guilford College is a private liberal arts institution located in Greensboro, North Carolina. It is affiliated with the Religious Society of Friends and integrates Quaker values into the curriculum by offering majors in Community and...

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the classes are really small and all of the teachers are very caring. they really get involved in your education and are always available to help you when you need it. everyone seems so passionate about what they're doing and the facilities are...

” – Chelsea from Durham, NC

Founded by a group of nuns and the local bishop, the University of Providence is a Catholic liberal arts institution in Great Falls. UP is home to schools of Liberal Arts and Health Sciences offering bachelor’s degrees in 30 academic majors. As a...

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The courses available are outstanding! One of my favorite type of courses are called ILCs, which combine two different areas of study and show how they are interlinked and how the areas can affect you personally. Both my core classes and the...

” – Amber from Nampa, ID

Founded in 1837 in the Lake Sunapee Region of central New Hampshire, Colby-Sawyer College is a 4-year institution built on a liberal arts and sciences core curriculum. Conferring undergraduate degrees through the School of Arts and Sciences, the...

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You get out of it, what you put into it. it's one of those schools where you aren't competing for attention, so you can get a good education.

” – Devin from Cornish, NH

St Andrews University is a public institution based in St. Andrews, Fife, and is the oldest university in Scotland. It is one of the most difficult universities in the UK to gain admittance to. St. Andrews University operates its own wind farm and is...

Claflin University is a private HBCU and independent institution based in Orangeburg, South Carolina. The school provides a career-oriented liberal arts education. It is a member of the United Negro College Fund and affiliated with the United...

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Yes, I've learn so much that I earn 20 credit hrs. as a first semester freshmen in the spring of 2009, and haved accumulated a 3.33 GPA.

” – Michael from Columbia, SC

Founded in 1864 in Washington, DC, Gallaudet University is a private, international institution that focuses on education for the deaf and hard of hearing. All classes are taught in both English and American Sign Language. Many students choose to...

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The way the classes are set up, you won't miss anything that is said/signed in class.

” – Craigory from Cincinnati, OH

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Tulsa Community College is a public, 2-year institution established in the state of Oklahoma. Students attending classes at TCC can choose between the Metro campus, the Northeast campus, the Southeast campus, the West campus, the Owasso Community...

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Tulsa Community College is a perfect way to start your academic career, or to get the technical skills you need to start working right away. The the size of the campuses make it easy to navigate between classes, or you can choose online classes so...

” – Grandma, back in school.

California State University-Dominguez Hills is a 4-year public university in the greater Los Angeles area and part of the Cal State system. CSUDH hosts six colleges granting undergraduate degrees in over 40 academic majors. A diverse institution...

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I am learning many different things at Dominguez. My first year here has really built a great foundation for the rest of my scholastic career. From easy tips to taking notes and easy study tips.

” – Current Business student

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Rockford University is a private, 4-year institution established on a suburban, 150-acre campus in Winnebago County, Illinois. Rockford offers over 80 undergraduate and graduate majors, minors, and concentrations through the College of Arts and...

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The teachers are really interested in your learning. So if you ask questions they will give you the best and detailed answer. They will be available to you at every hour so you could ask them questions about the homework or any problem you might have...

” – Erick from Rockford, IL

Georgia Southwestern State University is a 4-year public institution and part of the University System of Georgia. GSW is home to five colleges and schools conferring bachelor’s degrees in 40 academic areas of study. Additionally, Georgia...

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The professors are knowledgeable in their class. I am currently taking Anatomy & Physiology this semester and I am enjoying myself because the human body is interesting.

” – Azriel from Columbus, GA

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The University of Saint Francis is a private, Christ-centered institution located in Fort Wayne, Indiana. The campus features a number of historic facilities, such as the Brookside Mansion, which once was home to the entire college, and now hosts...

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The courses at the University are in a word: Fantastic. The class sizes are of course small in comparison to a larger University but its not necessarily the size that accounts for the quality of the education. The professors are the one's who make a...

” – Kyle from Monroe, IN

Founded by an antislavery advocate in 1859, Adrian College is a 4-year liberal arts college in southeast Michigan. Affiliated with the United Methodist Church, Adrian awards bachelor’s degrees in 50 academic majors. In addition to classroom space...

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Almost every professor here at Adrian knows their stuff and is very willing to work with you to make sure you thoroughly understand the class material. They will stay after class, meet with you during or outside of posted office hours, and help you...

” – Kelly from Wellington, OH

Founded in 1850, the Defiance College is a private institution based in the rural town of Defiance, OH. The liberal arts college is closely affiliated with the United Church of Christ. The school houses the McMaster School for Advancing Humanity...

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The science department at Defiance College consists of only professors with doctorates no graduate assistants, in fact there are no graduate assistants in the college. This helps keep the classroom more professional and makes learning easier. The...

” – Bryan from Defiance, OH

Henderson State University is one of only 10 public schools in the state and has the alma mater “The School with a Heart.” Rated as having “selective” admissions, HSU offers the only bachelor’s degree in aviation in the state. The Reynolds...

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I have taken several classes, and almost every one of them I have learned a lot of new information from. There were only a couple classes that I didn't really retain much, because they seemed to be a review from the college prep classes from high...

” – Brittany from Malvern, AR

Marymount California University is a private graduate-level Catholic institution with a variety of disciplines in the arts and sciences. The university also offers a BA-MBA program, in which students can earn both a bachelor’s degree and a MBA in...

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Marymount College is ideal for those who don't want to get lost in the University/Larger Colleges. I have found that the smaller classrooms allow me to feel more comfortable in seeking further help from my teachers. Their study hall, as been a...

” – Megn from Big Bear City, CA

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Established in 1872, Saint Peter’s University is one of 28 Jesuit universities in the nation. Saint Peter’s is based in Jersey City, NJ, with a second location called Englewood Cliffs, and is home to four colleges and schools conferring undergraduate...

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Saint Peters offers a wide range of courses that not only satisfy students academically, but provides them with the knowledge and understanding that you will remember for years to come. As a freshman I came in not feeling overwhelmed and was able to...

” – Erica from Newark, NJ

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Central Methodist University is a private, liberal arts institution established in Fayette, Missouri. While CMU is affiliated with the United Methodist Church, the university values diversity and diplomacy making students of all faiths welcome. CMU’s...

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Nicholls State University is a public institution with “selective” admissions located in the rural town of Thibodaux, Louisiana, 50 miles west of New Orleans. The institution is named after Francis Redding Tillou Nicholls, a brigadier general for the...

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The teachers are very friendly & willing to go out of their way to help you to the best of their ability. If you're having trouble with anything all you have to do is ask. The material covered in the classes are interesting & challenging.

” – Amanda from Raceland, LA

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Neumann University is a private institution sponsored by the Sisters of St. Francis of Philadelphia, created in the Franciscan Tradition. NU offers 10 study abroad destinations, a Child Development Center, and dorms with bathrooms in every suite...

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You will learn a lot by attending this school. A lot of classes in their core curriculum are very diverse so you are exposed to a lot of knowledge in many areas. The teachers don't let you off easy either, they provide you with a lot of information...

” – Tim from Barto, PA

Elizabeth City State University is a public HBCU situated in the rural town of Elizabeth City, North Carolina. It is a member of the University of North Carolina system and the Thurgood Marshall College Fund. ECSU is a military-friendly university...

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ECSU is a fantastic school and I'm really learning a lot that will def help me improve my outlook.

” – Devon from Kinston, NC

Unity College
New Gloucester, ME
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Unity College, “America’s Environmental College,” is located in Unity, Maine, and was founded in 1965. Sitting within three climate zones, UC is comprised of 225 acres and features a liberal arts education in environmentally focused majors...

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Unity College is hands on learning based. They put you out in your field of study and relate all subjects to the environment.

” – Jordan from Johnsburg, IL

Parkland College is a two-year community college based in Champaign, Illinois, that confers associate’s degrees and workforce certificates. Serving 54 communities across central Illinois, Parkland offers over 100 degree and certificate programs and a...

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Parkland is a really great way to get accustomed to the college life! From my personal experience thus far, the professors truly care about their students and are passionate about the subjects they teach. They are there to help and answer any...

” – Lauren from Champaign, IL

Established by the Religious Society of Friends in 1873, William Penn University is a liberal arts institution in central Iowa affiliated with the Quakers. William Penn is home to seven academic divisions conferring degrees in over 20 majors. As a...

Chestnut Hill College is a coeducational college with “selective” admissions. Founded in 1924 by the Sisters of St. Joseph, the Institute for Forgiveness & Reconciliation is an homage towards their mission of “unity and love for all without...

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Chestnut Hill College is a place where students are very close to students, the class size average is 20-25 students per class. The teachers are very available and that can help the students to imporve their skill by getting assistance from teachers...

” – Luis from Burbank, CA

Founded in 1890, Keuka College is a liberal arts school based in Keuka Park, New York. The Field Period at Keuka College is a required program chosen by the student that explores their interests through an internship, cultural experience, artistic...

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Keuka College offers great diversity because of there multicultural affairs office and activities. Also, due to their programs outreaching to Chinese students, there is no limit to the amount of ne ideas and cultures you can learn.

” – Devin from Orchard Park, NY

Founded in 1839, Framingham State University is a public institution based in Framingham, Massachusetts. Framingham operates the Center for Social Research, the Christa Corrigan McAuliffe Center for Education and Teaching Excellence, and the John C...

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The professors here are great. They are extremely willing to help you out if you ever need help. They want you to succeed, and they will do anything they can if you just ask.

” – Lauren from Wrentham, MA

Cazenovia College is situated in Cazenovia, NY, and offers more than 35 undergraduate programs in liberal arts and professional studies. One of the smallest liberal arts schools in the region, Cazenovia features small classes and 96% of students...

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The professors at Cazenovia College really try to tailor one's education to one's needs. They offer a fantastic learning center ready and willing to tutor any student in any subject. The advisors and professors want to challenge the students so that...

” – Michelle from Keene, NH

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Young Harris College is a private liberal arts school situated in the Southern Appalachian Mountains. It is affiliated with the United Methodist Church. All undergraduate students must complete a core curriculum that includes public speaking and...

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Young Harris is a top of the notch learning school. With small class sizes professors are ablet to get to know the students on individual basis and help them with their needs. They have excellent tutoring programs and the best academic services.

” – Hannah from Hiram, GA

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Fitchburg State University is a public Massachusetts institution founded in 1894. It has a “selective” admissions process and provides a liberal arts and sciences curriculum integrated with professional programs. The most popular majors are exercise...

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Classes are small and the professors are nice and really care about your success!

” – Nicole from Salisbury, MA

With campus a short distance from the shores of Lake Superior, Northland College is a 4-year liberal arts college in northern Wisconsin dedicated to sustainability and the environment. Northland confers undergraduate degrees in over 40 academic...

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The level and sophistication of the academic program at Northland is outstanding. The professors are always willing to provide any assistance and they want to see their students succeed. They push you to do your best in order to become a more...

” – Abby from Bloomington, IL

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Florida SouthWestern State College is a 2-year community college in southwest Florida with outreach programs and satellite campuses throughout the state. FSW is home to schools of Arts & Humanities, Business, Science, Education, and Health...

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Most of what we talk about in class, you should already know in high school. However, with the more advanced classes (Physics, Chemistry, Biology, English Composition), they take you into a deeper world, seeing as you have more to explore certain...

” – Angelica from Fort Myers, FL

Belmont Abbey College is a private liberal arts institution based in Belmont, North Carolina. It is affiliated with the Order of Saint Benedict and the Roman Catholic Church. The college houses the Saint Joseph Adoration Chapel which is open 24 hours...

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Here at Belmont Abbey College the learning experience is quiet different then what I expected. Since, I attending public high school I was used to the teachers just being teachers. What I mean is that I never expected to be taught by an actual monk...

” – Stephanie from Huntersville, NC

West Liberty University is a public, 4-year institution established in the state of West Virginia. WLU offers a number of undergraduate and graduate degree programs for many different fields of study, such as Creative Art Therapy and Museum Education...

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an outstanding experience. best place to learn about art. the best school for me.

” – Ashley from Williamstown, WV

The University of Wisconsin-Whitewater is a 4-year public school in southeast Wisconsin and part of the UW system. UW Whitewater is home to five colleges conferring undergraduate degrees in more than 50 majors and 119 minors. Additionally, UW...

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Whitewater has a great environment for learning. Class sizes can range from a small number of students to a lecture hall but you are usually able to find classes where you can choose whether or not you want a small or large class size. Most...

” – Rachel from Waukesha, WI

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Formed by the consolidation of Baker Business University and Muskegon College, Baker College is a career and vocational school with several campus locations throughout Michigan. Baker confers bachelor’s degrees in over 40 academic majors and students...

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I am learning a lot at baker

” – Elizabeth from Flint, MI

Founded by the Sisters of Divine Providence, La Roche University is a 4-year Catholic institution in Pittsburgh. LaRoche offers bachelor’s degrees in over 50 academic majors grounded in the Catholic Intellectual Tradition. As a Catholic university...

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La Roche College is a small, yet bustling school. Professors and students throughout the school are friendly, always smiling, and eager to help in anyway they can. I transferred here but have never felt more at home!

” – Sarah from Brackenridge, PA

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Marlboro College is a 4-year liberal arts college with a campus nestled in the heart of southern Vermont’s scenic Green Mountains. Marlboro offers a standard array of degree fields, but more than half of the student body opts to take an...

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There are a lot of intellectuals on campus, and everyone seems to be a self-created expert in something. Just a casual conversation with someone over lunch can be a stimulating experience.

” – wendalement