Is a 2.7 GPA Good? Best Colleges That Accept a 2.7 GPA

A high grade point average (GPA) is certainly important when applying to colleges, but it's not the only factor in whether or not you'll be accepted. And while a high GPA certainly helps, there are many great colleges with low GPA requirements.

Every school has different admissions requirements, and many Ivy League schools require a higher-than-average grade point average. For example, the average GPA for Harvard is 4.18. That may not be where you are right now, but there are still plenty of quality colleges that accept 2.7 GPA.

What Is a 2.7 GPA?

A grade point average indicates your overall academic performance in high school and is based on the letter grades you earned. A 2.7 GPA indicates that you probably earned mostly Bs and Cs. In American schools, most are scaled from 1.0 to 4.0; however if your school uses a weighted scale, then you can have a GPA above 4.0.

Many college admissions offices will look at your GPA to determine whether you can handle the rigor of college courses. A lower GPA doesn't mean you can't succeed, but it may mean you need to make some changes. Many colleges for B students have resources to help you succeed.

Even when applying to colleges that accept a 2.7 GPA, make sure to check the average GPA of accepted students. You may have higher chances of acceptance if your GPA matches or exceeds them.

Colleges That Accept a 2.7 GPA

Your chances of admission are higher at a school that accepts B- students, but that doesn't mean you have to settle. Take a look at our list and see how you compare to the average accepted student.

1. State University of New York College at Brockport

First on our list is the State University of New York (SUNY) College at Brockport. Although they do not have a GPA requirement for first-time students, they do require letters of recommendation, which can help improve your chances.

Undergraduate students can pursue over 100 majors and over 65 minors, with online and on-campus options. With a 43% graduation rate, SUNY Brockport is committed to offering students the resources and help they need to succeed.

Average GPA accepted: 2.79

Acceptance rate: 71%

In-state tuition: $25,648 per year

Out-of-state tuition: $32,718 per year

2. Savannah State University

This public university in Georgia is a great option for B students as it has a higher acceptance rate and a low average accepted GPA. Choose from one of 40 academic programs at Savannah State, including business marketing, marine science, social work, or visual and performing arts.

Savannah State also offers some military programs, such as a minor in naval science and a certificate in the Army Reserve Officer Training Corps (AROTC).

Average GPA accepted: 2.77

Acceptance rate: 77%

In-state tuition: $174 per credit hour

Out-of-state tuition: $647 per credit hour

3. Nevada State College

Choose from one of dozens of on-campus degree programs or complete an online Bachelor of Arts degree in either history or interdisciplinary studies at Nevada State. Classes have a student-to-faculty ratio of about 18 to one.

Academic advising and the disability resource center ensure that all students can get the help they need to succeed in school. Nevada State is very affordable for residents; in-state students pay only registration fees, while out-of-state students pay tuition plus fees.

Average GPA accepted: 2.75

Acceptance rate: 82%

In-state tuition: $215.50 per credit hour

Out-of-state tuition_: $233.25 per credit hour

4. Fisher College

Fisher College is a private four-year college. With a high acceptance rate and an average GPA of 2.72, this could be a great option for B- students. Fisher offers over 25 bachelor's degree programs, including information technology, psychology, biology, and more.

As a private school, Fisher boasts low-class sizes, with a student-to-faculty ratio of just 14 to one, so students can get plenty of extra time and attention.

Average GPA accepted: 2.72

Acceptance rate: 74%

In-state tuition: $35,524 per year

Out-of-state tuition: $35,524 per year

5. Kentucky State University

With a 93% acceptance rate and an average accepted GPA of 2.72, you can be confident in your chances of enrollment at Kentucky State. Students interested in extra flexibility can take classes online as well. With a 13-to-one student-to-faculty ratio, you don't have to worry about being lost in a crowd.

Kentucky State's TRIO program aims to help all students meet and exceed their academic goals through Department of Education-funded programs. Several other support programs are available.

Average GPA accepted: 2.72

Acceptance rate: 93%

In-state tuition: $344 per credit hour

Out-of-state tuition: $522 per credit hour

6. Virginia Union University

This historically Black four-year university in Richmond, VA, could be a great fit for a student with a 2.7 GPA. It is committed to being both affordable and accessible, especially for students who don't believe they can attend college.

Complete your degree in biomedical science, communications, history, or many others. Virginia Union (VUU) students can also pursue one of 13 master's degree programs. VUU also participates in the federally funded TRIO program, which assists low-income students, first-generation college students, and students with disabilities.

Average GPA accepted: 2.71

Acceptance rate: 98%

In-state tuition: $482 per credit hour

Out-of-state tuition: $482 per credit hour

7. University of Arkansas at Monticello

The University of Arkansas at Monticello (UAM) has a 12-to-one student-to-faculty ratio, one of the smallest on our list. Smaller class sizes and robust learning support services make it easier for students to keep up with their classwork.

You can complete your degree in liberal arts, exercise science, nursing, social work, or many others. Associate degree programs and online courses are also available.

Average GPA accepted: 2.71

Acceptance rate: 46%

In-state tuition: $313.75 per credit hour

Out-of-state tuition: $375 per credit hour

8. State University of New York College at Morrisville

SUNY College at Morrisville, another branch of the State University of New York, is another great option for B- students. Some programs have specific GPA requirements, but the overall average is a 2.7 GPA. Morrisville also has a 12-to-one student-to-faculty ration, making it easier for you to get the attention you need.

Morrisville offers several associate and bachelor's degree programs, or earn your Master of Science in Food and Agribusiness.

Average GPA accepted: 2.7

Acceptance rate: 91%

In-state tuition: $25,311 per year

Out-of-state tuition: $35,731 per year

9. Paul Quinn College

Freshman applicants to Paul Quinn need their high school transcripts, one letter of recommendation, and a resume, but SAT/ACT scores are optional and no essay is required. Students can major in business administration, liberal arts, or follow a path to teacher certification. Student support services help create opportunities for all students to complete their degrees.

Average GPA accepted: 2.6

Acceptance rate: 57%

In-state tuition: $370.75 per credit hour

Out-of-state tuition: $370.75 per credit hour

10. Albany State University

Albany State offers many great programs for B students, from short-term certificates to master's degrees. Complete your bachelor's in mass communications, nursing, education, marketing, or one of many others.

U.S. News and World Report says that more than half of all classes at Albany State have fewer than 20 students, which means you can get a more individualized education. Its student wellness initiative also prioritizes caring for all aspects of a student's health, from physical and spiritual to financial and social.

Average GPA accepted: 2.77

Acceptance rate: 73%

In-state tuition: $851 per credit hour

Out-of-state tuition: $1,167 per credit hour

How We Rank Schools

Finding the right school, especially one with smaller class sizes, student support services, and a lower GPA acceptance rate, is a lot to balance. That's why we used very specific criteria when researching these schools.

• Accreditation: All schools on our list are fully accredited institutions. Since the schools are located across the nation, many are accredited by different boards, but their educational standards remain the same. No matter what kind of student you are, you'll have the chance at a great education at any of these schools.
• GPA requirement: Our schools all have average GPA acceptance rates below a 2.8. Remember that's an average, so some students will have higher GPAs and some lower. But for a student with a 2.7 GPA, you have better chances of being admitted to any of these schools.
• Acceptance rates: While a few of our schools are more selective, with acceptance rates below 50%, most are higher, even approaching a 90% or higher acceptance rate. That means that, even with a below-average GPA, you still have a good chance of getting in.

College Admissions Process for Students With Below-Average GPAs

A low high school GPA can make the college application process feel more stressful, but it doesn't have to. As you narrow down your list of colleges, bear in mind that you may need to include additional details like letters of recommendation, a strong interest letter, or ACT/SAT scores. However, rather than viewing this as a burden, look at it as an opportunity to shine.

We'll talk about ways to improve your GPA below, but as you apply for schools, don't shy away from explaining your grades and what you have done or will do to improve. Taking community college classes, seeking work opportunities, or re-taking standardized tests are all great ways to stand out to a college recruiter.

Strategies To Improve GPAs

Maybe you are approaching your senior year and notice your grades aren't quite where you want them to be. Don't worry, you still have time to improve. First, if college is truly a goal of yours, then take the time to get academic help through tutoring or talking with your teacher or guidance counselor. Improving your study habits and getting extra help can raise your grades before graduation.

Colleges also look at the student as a person and their overall accomplishments, so consider getting involved in after-school clubs, sports, or organizations. Look for service opportunities in your community or apply for jobs or internships. On the other hand, if you are already doing these things and feel they are taking time away from your studies, then consider where you can cut back to focus on improving your grades.

FAQs About Colleges That Accept Students With Low GPAs

Picking the right college is a big decision, and as you review your grades and application requirements, it's normal to still have a few questions. Take a look at our FAQs below to learn more about applying for school with a 2.7 GPA.

Is a 2.7 GPA Good?

A 2.7 GPA is just below the national average and indicates that the student earned mostly Bs in school. It's not great, but it isn't bad either. You may have a harder time getting accepted to more selective colleges, but you still have many options. Including extracurricular activities, internships, and volunteer work can help improve your application and make you stand out.

What Do Colleges Consider a Low GPA?

Most colleges consider anything below a 2.5 to be a low GPA. Students with a 2.5 GPA earned mostly Cs and a few Bs in school. This might mean the student will struggle to keep up with college coursework, and they may need to include additional information on college applications. However even with a low GPA, a hardworking student can complete their degree.

What Is the Lowest GPA a College Will Accept?

A GPA between 2.0 and 2.5 will significantly limit your options, but it won't take a degree off the table entirely. There are some colleges that accept everyone, even those with a low GPA. If you still have time before graduation, it's best to work to improve your grades, as this will open up more options for school.

Explore Online Bachelor's Degrees

As you consider your options for college, know that there are several fantastic schools available to those with a 2.7 GPA. Take a look at our list, as well as other accredited schools featured on Learn.org. When you find one that fits your needs, reach out to them to learn more.