Is a 1.4 GPA Good? Best Colleges That Accept a 1.4 GPA
Students with a 1.4 GPA can get into colleges that have lenient admission policies, no minimum GPA requirements, or a holistic application review process.
If you want to pursue a college degree but fear that you won't be admitted with a 1.4 grade point average (GPA), don't worry. You can find colleges with low GPA requirements or schools with a holistic application review process that considers other factors for admission. Keep reading to discover some of the nation's colleges that accept a 1.4 GPA.
What Is a 1.4 GPA?
At most schools, 1.4 is considered a low grade point average. Based on many grading scales nationwide, this GPA falls between the letter grades D+ (1.3), which represents a weak academic performance, and C- (1.7), which is considered below average.
While many schools prefer applicants with a good GPA, some believe that a low grade point average doesn't predict how a high school student will manage coursework in their freshman year of college. These schools often give promising students a chance by using test scores, letters of reference, essays, and other factors to admit them.
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Arizona State University
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Schools That Accept a 1.4 GPA
Are you ready to apply to the best colleges that accept a 1.4 GPA? Review the list below to find good schools nationwide.
1. Morgan State University
Morgan State University doesn't use a GPA and test scores alone to decide who should attend. Instead, the school follows a holistic review process that examines leadership, unique talents, weighted GPA, unweighted GPA, the rigor of the high school's schoolwork, and more.
Once admitted, students can choose from dozens of bachelor's degree programs in various areas of study, including marketing, English, music, and social work. The College of Interdisciplinary & Continuing Studies (CICS) offers several online programs.
Average GPA: N/A
Acceptance rate: 83%
In-state tuition: $265 per credit (CISC online); $5,815 annually (on-campus)
Out-of-state tuition: $265 per credit (CISC online); $16,925 annually (on-campus)
2. University of North Texas at Dallas
Students who want to enroll at the University of North Texas at Dallas with a GPA of less than 2.25 are considered for admission through a holistic review. During this review process, the admissions committee considers high school GPA, employment history, family background, and other factors.
Learners admitted to the school can pursue on-campus bachelor's degrees in public health, finance, history, applied Spanish, and beyond. An online bachelor's program is offered in emergency services administration.
Average GPA: 3.3
Acceptance rate: 94%
In-state tuition: $261.31 per credit (on-campus); $318 per credit (online)
Out-of-state tuition: $666.31 per credit (on-campus); $441 per credit (online)
3. Lincoln University
At Lincoln University in Missouri, students looking to earn an undergraduate degree can find programs in computer science, physics, fine and studio arts, nursing, and wellness. The school helps learners in these programs excel with peer tutoring, mentoring, and library access.
Students who want to enroll but don't have a GPA of at least 2.0 must attend the school's Summer Bridge Program. This free, three-week residential option consists of two mandatory classes that learners complete in July.
Average GPA: 2.71
Acceptance rate: 100%
In-state tuition: $269 per credit
Out-of-state tuition: $545 per credit
4. University of Central Missouri
When selecting students for admission to the University of Central Missouri, the school reviews each application based on factors like ACT/SAT scores, personal statement, high school GPA, and service. Learners who don't meet the school's minimum 2.0 GPA are automatically considered for the Advantage Program, which provides support from enrollment to graduation.
UCM lets enrollees choose from numerous online and on-campus bachelor's programs. Online learners study big data, general studies, history, marketing, and more, while on-campus students earn degrees in fields like art education, data science, finance, and graphic design.
Average GPA: 3.5
Acceptance rate: 69%
In-state tuition: $297 per credit (online/hybrid and on-campus)
Out-of-state tuition: $297 per credit (online/hybrid); $594.00 (on-campus)
5. Samford University
Samford University is a selective college; however, it doesn't have minimum GPA or SAT/ACT score mandates. Instead, college applications are viewed holistically to consider leadership, integrity, moral character, community service, and more.
For accepted students, the school offers on-campus programs in various areas of study, including business, nursing, public health, and the arts. Online programs explore family science, nursing, and more.
Average GPA: 3.48 to 4.1 (middle 50%)
Acceptance rate: 82%
In-state tuition: $382 per credit (online); $40,760 annually (on-campus)
Out-of-state tuition: $382 per credit (online); $40,760 annually (on-campus)
6. Northern Illinois University
Northern Illinois University offers on-campus and online programs for students seeking bachelor's degrees. Areas of study include art, music, theatre, health sciences, and public service leadership.
At NIU, students with at least a 3.0 GPA are automatically admitted. Learners with a lower GPA receive a holistic review during which their personal situation, achievements, and involvement are considered. Applicants may also be required to respond to review questions and complete an interview.
Average GPA: 3.4
Acceptance rate: 70%
In-state tuition: $466.80 - $516.80 per credit (online); $13,792 annually (on-campus)
Out-of-state tuition: $466.80 - $516.80 per credit (online); $13,792 annually (on-campus)
7. Georgia Southern University
Georgia Southern University's Armstrong and Statesboro campuses encourage applicants to maintain a 2.5 or better high school GPA in 17 required high school curriculum-specified courses. However, all students, regardless of GPA, will undergo evaluation for admission.
Whether learners want to attend GSU in person or online, dozens of programs are available for bachelor's degree seekers. Fields of study include criminal justice, IT, marketing, and political science.
Average GPA: 3.5
Acceptance rate: 90%
In-state tuition: $5,610 annually (on-campus and online)
Out-of-state tuition: $5,610 annually (online); $20,250 annually (on-campus)
8. University of Southern Mississippi
Future college students who want to attend the University of Southern Mississippi need at least a 2.0 GPA. Applicants who don't meet this and other standards may appeal to gain admission. During the appeal process, admissions officers evaluate students' high school performance, standardized test scores, special interests, skills, and other relevant factors.
Once admitted, students can pursue campus-based bachelor's degrees in chemistry, computer science, fitness and nutrition, and legal studies. Online degrees include allied health, human resource management, and sport coaching.
Average GPA: 3.4
Acceptance rate: 99%
In-state tuition: $10,394 annually (on-campus and online)
Out-of-state tuition: $10,394 annually (online); $12,394 annually
9. University of North Texas
At the University of North Texas, students with a high school diploma are guaranteed admission if they have a 3.0 GPA. Learners who have a lower GPA or don't meet any of the school's minimum admission standards receive an automatic review of their application. This review examines courses taken, achievements, leadership, public service, and more.
Dozens of degrees are available for freshmen admitted to UNT. Chemistry, Spanish, data science, English language arts, and finance are some fields to consider.
Average GPA: N/A
Acceptance rate: 72%
In-state tuition: $12,092 annually
Out-of-state tuition: $12,092 annually
10. Liberty University
Students interested in attending Liberty University might be surprised to learn that the school, best known for its online degree options, also offers residential programs. Degrees are available in nursing, public health, sport management, music, and many other fields.
When reviewing applications during the admissions process, Liberty doesn't look for a GPA or test score. Instead, the school considers each student on a case-by-case basis. Factors include a learner's high school transcript, admission essay, reference letters, and community service.
Average GPA: 3.5 (resident)
Acceptance rate: 99%
In-state tuition: $24,650 annually
Out-of-state tuition: $24,650 annually
How We Rank Schools
Our team closely vetted the schools in this rank list to confirm that each has met the following criteria for providing a top-notch academic experience:
- Accreditation: All schools in this list are accredited by a nationally recognized organization, such as the MSCHE or HLC.
- GPA requirement: These schools have no minimum GPA requirement or consider applicants with lower GPAs.
- Acceptance rates: Most schools above have higher acceptance rates, which allows more students to attend.
College Admissions With a 1.4 GPA
Many schools use a GPA to decide whether a student qualifies for admission. For schools that look for high GPAs, a 1.4 might be too low. However, some colleges allow all students to apply, no matter their grade point average.
Instead of using a GPA and test scores as primary factors, they might give more weight to letters of recommendation, personal interests, talents, and essays.
Strategies To Improve a Low GPA
If you have a low high school GPA and want to improve it before applying to college, consider these tips:
- Talk to your teachers: Many teachers are willing to help their students improve their grades by providing extra-credit projects or assistance after school.
- Find a tutor: A tutor can make concepts easier to comprehend as you work on assignments and study for tests.
- Strengthen your time management skills: You can use schedule planners, calendars, or to-do list apps to stay on top of your class goals.
- Connect with peers: By studying with classmates, you can help each other avoid bad habits that could prevent earning a higher GPA.
FAQs About Colleges Accepting Students With Below-Average GPAs
Do you want to pursue a degree at a college that accepts students with below-average GPAs? Explore the FAQs below to learn more about these schools.
Can You Get Into College With a 1.4 GPA?
Yes, students can gain admission to some colleges with a GPA of 1.4. If you want to attend a four-year college, choose schools that require no minimum GPA or allow students with low GPAs to enroll under certain conditions. You can also apply to colleges that accept everyone with a high school diploma or GED, such as community colleges with open admissions.
Can I Get a Scholarship With a 1.4 GPA?
It's possible to get a scholarship with a 1.4 GPA. A great way to qualify for an award is to pick one that accepts any grade point average or doesn't include GPA in its selection process. Some scholarships focus on a student's unique talents; others provide awards based on heritage, gender, financial need, and other factors.
What Is the Lowest GPA a College Will Accept?
You can find schools nationwide that have no minimum GPA standards. This means they might accept a low GPA if they find an application appealing in other ways. For instance, if you apply to a school with a holistic review process, they may consider your grades alongside other factors, such as test scores, community service, extracurricular activities, and leadership experience.
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