<span>3.1 GPA Colleges: See Schools That Accept a 3.1 GPA</span>

3.1 GPA Colleges: See Schools That Accept a 3.1 GPA

Grade point average (GPA) is a measure of high school academic performance depicted as an average of all your final grades. Here we will explore what a 3.1 GPA means, its significance in college admissions, and strategies for improving or maintaining this level of academic performance.

What is a 3.1 GPA?

A 3.1 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 slightly above-average academic performance, indicating that the student has maintained mostly B grades, with some grades falling below or above that range.

Is a 3.1 GPA Good?

A grade of B demonstrates good performance, making a 3.1 a “good” GPA. Most colleges (if not all) accept applications from students attaining a 3.1 GPA, especially considering that it exceeds the national average for graduating high school seniors. With that in mind, a 3.1 GPA is not only accepted but is often competitive for admission at a sizable number of schools.

What percentile is a 3.1 GPA? 

A 3.1 GPA is a percentile of 86, landing you squarely with a B+ GPA. 

How Does a 3.1 GPA Affect College Admissions?

A 3.1 GPA represents a good academic performance. Admissions committees consider your GPA and your full application when making their decisions. They look at your test scores, extracurricular activities, recommendations, and essays.

A 3.1 GPA may make you a competitive candidate. But if you aren't sure, it's best to try to improve your GPA, which we discussed above. You can also put additional effort into extracurricular activities, sports, and community service to make your application more competitive.

What Colleges Can I Get Into With a 3.1 GPA?

There are a variety of colleges that accept a 3.1 GPA for admission and we’ve put together a sample of them below. While a 3.1 GPA doesn’t lead to automatic acceptance, recent trends show that these schools frequently admit students with a GPA in the 3.1-3.2 range.

Freshmen and Sophomores

For underclassmen, the key at this GPA level is to maintain the good study habits that earned a 3.1 GPA in the first place. Next, analyze your goals for post-graduation—if having a competitive GPA would give you a leg up in the area you’re intending to study, then put in some effort to enhance your already good GPA. Keep in mind that the higher your GPA is, the more likely you’ll earn extra scholarships and merit aid for it, as well, easing the high cost of college tuition bills. Now is a good time to take on after-school activities and find something you’re passionate about. Colleges look for well-rounded applicants and you’re in a good spot academically, so take on community service projects, a sport, or a club.

Juniors

As for juniors, remember that a 3.1 GPA already makes you competitive for a majority of colleges. To further bolster your application, now is the time to concentrate on preparing for standardized testing: the ACT or SAT. Most colleges weigh standardized tests and GPA fairly equally, so avoid neglecting one in favor of the other. Devote a block of study time to standardized test prep and take a few practice tests to get a sense of what the ACT and SAT are all about. If you want to try to further improve a 3.1 GPA as a junior, that means committing to exceptional performance in all classes. It’s still possible to increase your GPA up to as high as a 3.4, but make sure that you’re not neglecting necessary preparations for the SAT/ACT.

Seniors

For seniors, while it might feel as though most of the important work has been done already, it’s imperative to keep putting in the effort and avoid senioritis. Just as importantly, make sure that all other parts of your application present your high school career in the best possible light. This is also a good time to visit the college resource center and get to know your college counselors. They’ll provide feedback to craft an application essay that reads as effectively as possible.

Some specific colleges looking for students with a 3.1 GPA:

You’re eligible (and competitive) to apply to a ton of colleges. You have many to consider, including the University of Hartford, the University of Wisconsin-Milwaukee, and Central Washington University, all three of which accept students with an average GPA of 3.1.

What scholarships can you get with a 3.1 GPA? 

With a 3.1 GPA you’re eligible to apply for many scholarships. There are some that will require higher GPAs, like 3.5, but the majority with GPA requirements are usually around 3.0. Start applying to as many scholarships as you can today and start building up a nest egg to help offset the cost of college tuition! 

View All Scholarships

 

What Are Colleges Looking At Other Than a 3.1 High School GPA? 

Your GPA is just a quick snapshot of your academic competency — to know whether or not you’d thrive at a college or university, admissions officers need to know more about you. Providing a holistic view of who you are as a person, your interests, goals in life, and hobbies is also a good way to stand out. So provide as many of the following as possible in your college application: 

How Can I Improve My 3.1 GPA?

If you have a 3.1 GPA and would like to improve it, here are some tips:

  1. Identify areas of weakness: Identify the subjects or courses where you struggled or received lower grades. Work on improving your skills and understanding of these topics.

  2. Take challenging courses: Challenge yourself by taking advanced or honors-level courses in your areas of strength. This will help you demonstrate your academic abilities and show that you are willing to push yourself.

  3. Focus on time management: Manage your time effectively by creating a schedule that balances academic work with other commitments such as work or extracurricular activities.

  4. Attend office hours and seek help: Attend office hours and seek help from professors or tutors. They can provide guidance on how to improve your grades and understanding of the material.

  5. Study effectively: Develop effective study habits such as creating a study plan, taking notes, and reviewing material regularly.

  6. Stay organized: Keep track of your assignments, deadlines, and exams. This will help you avoid procrastination and stay on top of your academic work.

Remember, improving your GPA takes time and effort, so be patient and persistent in your efforts. 

What is a Weighted vs. Unweighted GPA?

A weighted GPA considers the difficulty of the classes you take. For example, 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.

On the other hand, an unweighted GPA assigns a standard value to each letter grade regardless of the class's difficulty level. For example, 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. 

 

Advanced Search

Winston-Salem State University is an Historically Black College and University and a public constituent institution of the University of North Carolina. WSSU is the country’s only HBCU to  offer a Motorsports Management degree and its Department of...

“…

At Winston Salem State University I have learned a ton of new things, and also I have fun while learning and that's the best part! Some of the new things I have learned are the proper ways to write persuasive essays,how to act as an adult (being...

” – Brittany from Durham, NC

Established in 1854, Salem State University is a 4-year public school in the greater Boston area. Salem State grants bachelor’s degrees in 32 academic programs with a focus on liberal arts and sciences. In addition to classroom facilities, Salem...

“…

All of my classes at Salem State teach me the basics of the subject, as well as things I will use in my every day life. This past semester in my Child Growth class, my professor gave us everyday examples of how we will use what we have learned. We...

” – Hayley from Methuen, MA

Central Connecticut State University is Connecticut’s oldest public university and the largest institution in the Connecticut State Colleges and Universities system. CCSU is home to schools of Business, Education, Engineering, and Graduate Studies...

“…

I am in the Schools Honor program and am learning so much from all of my honors and non honors classes. most of my teachers have been very helpful and they all know what they are talking about and are enthusiastic about it. I am also learning a lot...

” – Jessica from South Windsor, CT

At Plymouth State, you will actively learn with faculty and students, not just within your major but from diverse disciplines and with partners such as businesses and organizations, getting real-world, resume-boosting experience. The Plymouth State...

“…

I've only completed my first semester, but I've learned so much. I took a class called Environmental Geography. I knew that the world had it's problems, but this course really opened my eyes to the real problems of the world. I also took a course...

” – Esia from Hudson, NH

Founded in 1865, Dean College is a private institution based in the suburban town of Franklin, Massachusetts. Many students choose to study dance, drama and theater production, or athletic training. Dean is a sustainable campus and uses LED lighting...

“…

If you come to Dean wanting to learn, you're going to take a lot away from the experience. I was a Criminal Justice major, and was fortunate enough to have Professor Couture for my Intro to Crim class. She has a system set up where you can earn...

” – Kristen from Millville, MA

College placeholder image

Founded in 1859, Averett University is a private 4-year institution situated in Danville, Virginia. Averett University is affiliated with the Baptist General Association of Virginia but welcomes students of all faith, or non-faith, backgrounds. Top...

“…

the small classes offer a more personal level with the professors making easier to pay attention

” – Joey from Richmond, VA

College placeholder image

Notre Dame College is a Catholic liberal arts school dedicated to teaching students in the Sisters of Notre Dame tradition. NDC is based in South Euclid, Ohio, and houses the tolerance outreach center, the Abrahamic Center, which promotes interfaith...

“…

Notre Dame offers a very personal educational experience with lots of free support.

” – Jaimie from Galloway, OH

College placeholder image

York College is a private, Christ-centered institution established on an urban, 50-acre campus in Nebraska. York offers 26 on-campus bachelor’s degree programs, as well as two online master’s degree programs in Education and Organizational Leadership...

“…

The classes are great here and all the teachers are so willing to help.

” – Megan from Grand Island, NE

College placeholder image

Founded in 1871, Alcorn State University is a public Historically Black College and University in southwest Mississippi. The oldest historically black land-grant university in the United States, Alcorn State is home to five schools offering...

“…

Anybody who is pursuing an education at Alcorn State University will be in a positive learning environment:full of fun and a better understanding about careers all in one.

” – Imara from Sontag, MS

Founded in 1896, South Carolina State University is a 4-year public school in central South Carolina and the only public Historically Black College and University in the state. SCSU is home to six academic departments conferring undergraduate degrees...

“…

The learning environment at South Carolina State is very relaxed. Teachers are easily accessable and willing to help students understand course material.

” – Andrew from Florence, SC

Metropolitan State University of Denver is a 4-year public urban university in the heart of downtown Denver. MSU Denver is home to colleges of Business; Aerospace and Engineering Science; Health and Human Services; Letters, Arts & Sciences; Education...

“…

All of the teachers that I have meet seem to be very professional and experts in their subject areas. The classes are taught by the professors and not by student aids. The class sizes are smaller, so that means more access to the teacher. I believe I...

” – Ashlynn from Morrison, CO

Ferrum College is a 4-year liberal arts college in rural southwestern Virginia affiliated with the United Methodist Church. Ferrum hosts schools of Arts & Humanities, Natural Sciences, and Social Sciences granting bachelor’s degrees in 30 academic...

“…

Small campus where the teachers make you their priority. Help is always available for those who need it. Everyone on campus supports you from academics to sports.

” – Anneleisse from Castle Rock, CO

Founded in 1879, Curry College is a private institution based in Milton, Massachusetts. The school operates a main campus near a state park in Norfolk county and a satellite campus in Plymouth. All students must take a General Education curriculum...

“…

I transfered to Curry College last semester and loved that it was a small school and the professors were very helpful with anything you needed. Curry has a great campaus and very small class sizes which is very easy to learn from. Also since the...

” – Joseph from Canton, MA

St. Petersburg College is a public institution that operates multiple small campuses around Pinellas County, Florida. SPC is part of the Florida College System and is recognized as a state college. Popular majors include medical records technician...

“…

There certain classes that should not be taken online, like speech or one you need lots of instruction.

” – Tyler from Clearwater, FL

Keene State College is a 4-year public liberal arts college in southwest New Hampshire and a member of the University System of New Hampshire. Keene State confers bachelor’s degrees in over 40 academic fields of study. Throughout the school year...

“…

The professors here are great. They really strive to not only get you to learn the material, but make you like learning it. There are so many options when picking classes. You are destined to find something you like.

” – Sam from Londonderry, NH

William Peace University in Raleigh, North Carolina, is a 4-year co-ed university. Founded in 1857 as a school for women, WPU has gone through many changes, always adapting to the needs of students and the careers of tomorrow. 

WPU offers more than...

Founded in 1856, Albright College is a 4-year liberal arts college in eastern Pennsylvania and the oldest institution of higher learning in its home county. Albright confers bachelor’s degrees in over 45 academic majors and also features an...

“…

All of the professors are extremely helpful and they really want you to succeed which is great. Many of the tests have reviews beforehand that tell you exactly what is on each test and most of the time there are no tricks when the actual test comes...

” – Meghan from Bowmansville, PA

Surrounding the city’s oldest parks in downtown Minneapolis, Minnesota, Augsburg University is a test-optional, 4-year institution comprised of 18 main buildings, 3 dining venues, and more than 50 liberal arts academic programs to choose from...

“…

The professors are great! They go beyond what is taught in the textbook.

” – Nou from Coon Rapids, MN

Blackburn College is a private, 4-year institution established in Carlinville, Illinois, and is one of under ten federally recognized work colleges in the US. The college’s Work Program is student-managed, and it offers students the opportunity to...

“…

Blackburn offers many classes for a wide variety of people. Having just built a new $1mil+ science building in the last 5 years, Blackburn's science program is booming. The teachers have every intention of making you learn, which is wonderful.

” – Joshua from Carlinville, IL

Life University is the biggest single-campus chiropractic college in the world. It is a private institution founded by a doctor of chiropractic that offers health and wellness-focused programs. Life University’s education is founded around Vitalism...

“…

During campus tour we were taken through three courses for a 15 minute sample to various courses that my program requires. The student/professor ratio seem conducive to an environment for learning.

” – Travis from Macon, GA

College placeholder image

Barton College is a private liberal arts institution situated in Wilson, North Carolina. Barton is associated with the Christian Church (Disciples of Christ) and has a “selective” admissions process. The school provides a curriculum that focuses on...

“…

Barton has very small class sizes which allows each person to get personal attention. The professors are available majority of the time. There are also resources on campus such as the writing center, tutors, and every building has its own computer...

” – Jayla from NC

College placeholder image

The College of Staten Island is a 4-year public school in New York City and a senior college in the City University of New York system. CSI is home to five divisions and schools offering undergrad degrees in over 55 academic majors. In addition to...

“…

Just finished my first semester and I am ready for the next one

” – Troy from New York, NY

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...

“…

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...

“…

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

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...

“…

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...

“…

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...

“…

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...

“…

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...

“…

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

College placeholder image

With campus overlooking the Wabash River, Vincennes University is a 4-year public school in southwest Indiana. The first public college founded in the state, VU operates four campuses around Indiana and confers bachelor’s degrees in 18 academic...

“…

You will learn a lot here at Vincennes. The classes are small and very helpful. Have a bigger opportunity to talk to the teacher one on one.

” – Jelisa from Pendleton, IN

College placeholder image

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...

“…

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

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...

Founded in 1872, Lyon College is a 4-year liberal arts college in northern Arkansas and one of the oldest institutions of higher learning in the state. Lyon confers bachelor’s degrees in 15 academic disciplines. In addition, Lyon houses a Scottish...

“…

Lyon College provides a very aggressive academic program, their classes are invigorating, challenging, interesting and provide interaction with an amazing faculty. The homework helps to make the information in class concrete within the memory. And...

” – Karisala from O Fallon, IL

College placeholder image

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...

“…

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...

“…

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

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...

“…

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

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...

“…

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...

“…

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...

“…

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...

“…

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

College placeholder image

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...

“…

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...

“…

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

” – Devon from Kinston, NC

Franklin Pierce University is a small private institution based in rural Rindge, New Hampshire. The campus is surrounded by forests, wetlands, lakes, fields, and mountains, which are utilized for field work and ecology research. FPU operates multiple...

“…

From my meeting with some of the professors and sitting in on some classes I feel that the teachers will push you to learn. This school may not be Harvard but that may mean that the teachers care a little more about how smart you are, not just how...

” – Kate from Hopedale, MA

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...

“…

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...

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...

“…

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 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...

“…

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

College placeholder image

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...

“…

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

College placeholder image

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...

“…

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