Is a 2.9 GPA Good? Best Colleges That Accept a 2.9 GPA

If you didn't get perfect grades in high school or during your undergraduate degree, that shouldn't prevent you from continuing your education. Even with a 2.9 grade point average (GPA), there are plenty of schools worth applying to.

Read on to learn about the easiest colleges to get into with a lower GPA.

What Is a 2.9 GPA?

A GPA is a convenient way for admissions staff and others to know your cumulative academic performance at a glance. The highest possible GPA score is 4.0, equivalent to an A+ grade. The 2.9 GPA is considered a slightly low B.

The national average can fluctuate. For instance, according to the Nation's Report Card, the overall high school graduate GPA increased from 3.0 in 2009 to 3.11 in 2019.

Generally, colleges want potential students to have a 3.0 GPA or higher, but a 2.9 shouldn't be too much of a cause for concern. In fact, you'll still have the opportunity to apply to a variety of colleges for B students.

Colleges That Accept a 2.9 GPA

Whether you see yourself attending a state university in the South or a technical school in New York, you won't have to discount as many colleges as you might think. The following institutions are happy to consider students with 2.9 GPAs.

1. University of Baltimore

The University of Baltimore (UB) is one of the best colleges that accept a 2.9 GPA because it offers over 70 programs for both undergraduate and graduate students. Concentrations include everything from business and design to law and psychology.

UB is ranked as the second most affordable university in Maryland. The school is also in the top 10% for supporting students' economic and social mobility.

Average GPA accepted: 2.9

Acceptance rate: 89%

In-state tuition: $9,772

Out-of-state tuition: $23,490

2. Albany State University

Nestled in southeast Georgia, Albany State University is a historically Black college and university that features programs in nursing, English, forensic science, and more.

Not only are the professors known for helping struggling students, but the university offers free teletherapy to everyone. You can also rely on counseling and accessibility services to ensure you'll get the most out of your educational experience.

Average GPA accepted: 2.8

Acceptance rate: 73%

In-state tuition: $5,484

Out-of-state tuition: $16,206

3. Virginia State University

Virginia State University offers over 30 concentrations for bachelor's degrees alone. For instance, you can decide to major in education, business, or engineering. Best of all, this state college is in the top 20% for social mobility, so even with a 2.9 GPA, you can expect to receive top-tier support.

Average GPA accepted: 2.9

Acceptance rate: 90%

In-state tuition: $9,755

Out-of-state tuition: $22,006

4. St. Francis College

If you'd prefer a Christian-centered private school, then St. Francis College is a good opportunity, especially if you're interested in biology, communication, or psychology.

This school recently started a five-year plan that focuses on student success. The school promotes academic excellence, individual development, and community, allowing students to feel empowered throughout their four-year education.

Average GPA accepted: 2.9

Acceptance rate: 84%

In-state tuition: $27,570

Out-of-state tuition: $27,570

5. Webber International University

Webber International University is a non-profit private university located in the sunny state of Florida. The school is known for its business specialty but also features concentrations in elementary education, sports performance, and more.

One way you can increase your chances of enrollment is by having an SAT score in the range of 853 to 1060. Once you're accepted, you can enjoy an environment that combines self-discipline, creativity, and ethical cultivation.

Average GPA accepted: 2.9

Acceptance rate: 78%

In-state tuition: $31,626

Out-of-state tuition: $31,626

6. University of Bridgeport

The University of Bridgeport (UB) has a college of arts and science, health science, and business. Altogether, you can choose between an impressive 125-plus academic programs.

UB demonstrates its support for attendees by offering civic engagement, student employment, and career development opportunities. Even with a slightly lower GPA, you'll feel valued and prepared for your future.

Average GPA accepted: 3.0

Acceptance rate: 82%

In-state tuition: $35,760

Out-of-state tuition: $35,760

7. SUNY Buffalo State University

SUNY Buffalo State University is the largest four-year college within New York's state university network. Some fields you can study as an undergraduate include interior design, journalism, and chemistry.

Counselors will provide one-on-one guidance. Students also praise the care and expertise of the professors and other staff members.

Average GPA accepted: 3.0

Acceptance rate: 86%

In-state tuition: $8,486

Out-of-state tuition: $18,906

8. Norfolk State University

Norfolk State University is another historically Black college and university. It's the only school in Virginia that offers an optical engineering major. Other concentrations include sociology, political science, and history.

The school's robust student services include help with both academics and finding financial aid, among other valuable resources.

Average GPA accepted: 2.9

Acceptance rate: 89%

In-state tuition: $9,910

Out-of-state tuition: $21,412

9. Winston-Salem State University

Winston-Salem State University has made a name for itself by being the only historically Black college and university with a motorsports management degree program. The school also offers various education, health and fitness, and other programs.

Even with a 2.9 GPA, you can benefit from the institution's detailed community standards and services, which are designed to uplift the student body.

Average GPA accepted: 3.0

Acceptance rate: 73%

In-state tuition: $6,735

Out-of-state tuition: $17,391

10. Plymouth State University

Plymouth State University offers over 100 degree programs, including music, mathematics, and science.

The school's emphasis on real-world experience can help students develop the necessary skills for their career goals, even if they struggle academically. Best of all, 100% of enrolled students receive some kind of financial aid.

Average GPA accepted: 3.0

Acceptance rate: 98%

In-state tuition: $14,558

Out-of-state tuition: $25,498

How We Rank Schools

Every school is carefully chosen based on its staple criteria, which also informs its reputation. The following can also help you make a more informed decision about which schools to apply to.

• Accreditation: Each school featured should have at least regional, if not national, accreditation, such as that offered by the Distance Education & Training Council.
• GPA requirement: No school on this list has a GPA requirement that would exempt you from applying, although three is still no guarantee of acceptance.
• Acceptance rates: These percentages, none lower than 73%, are a good indication of your chances of enrollment, but they're still one part of the larger picture, which includes ACT scores and other factors.

College Admissions Process for 2.9-GPA Students

It should be emphasized that a 2.9 GPA won't automatically bar you from entry into a university. Admission committees will often look at the GPA within the context of your coursework.

Even when a low GPA could be an issue, you can round out your application by getting higher SAT or ACT scores. Doing this can prove to admission committees that your GPA could have been a sign of poor work-life balance or other extenuating circumstances.

Keep in mind that a 2.9 GPA may disqualify you from receiving certain grants or scholarships.

Strategies To Improve Slightly Below-Average GPAs

If you'd like to improve your GPA, then you may have the opportunity to retake some classes in your senior year. Getting an A or a B in a course where you originally had a C or D can make a sizeable difference.

While it's great to challenge yourself as a high school student and beyond, you shouldn't overdo it either. Instead, it's worth strategically choosing classes that align with your long-term academic and career goals.

Don't forget to develop dependable study habits that can help you strengthen your weak areas in a given subject.

FAQs About College Applications for Students With Low GPAs

If you still have specific questions relating to low GPAs, don't worry. The following questions and answers can help you have a clearer idea of what to expect.

Is a 2.9 GPA Good?

As mentioned, a 2.9 GPA is in the B- percentile. While a grade like this suggests room for improvement, it's by no means bad. Even though a lower GPA can affect your chances at certain scholarships, for instance, there are still plenty of others you can apply for.

What Are the Common GPA Admissions Requirements?

Aside from Ivy League schools or private colleges requiring high GPAs, colleges generally set these requirements in the 2.8 to 3.8 range. This range often covers moderately selective colleges and public universities.

When it comes to a community college, you'll be glad to know that the range is even lower, from 2.0 to 2.8. Sometimes, your high school GPA is not a factor at all.

What Colleges Accept Students With a 2.9 GPA?

Numerous colleges accept a 2.9 GPA. You can apply to anything from SUNY Buffalo State University to St. Francis College. Rather than focusing solely on your GPA, you should also spend time scrutinizing the reputation of the specific programs it offers.

Remember to take into consideration financial aid opportunities. While some colleges are more open to a lower GPA, they may not offer the same financial aid packages as other colleges with similar leniency.

Explore Online Bachelor's Degrees

A slightly lower-than-average GPA may close some doors for you, but there is still a wide range of academic opportunities you can pursue. Keep in mind that a GPA doesn't define you as a student, and there are many other ways you can prove your capabilities.

If you want more content on potential schools and reputable programs, be sure to browse the articles found throughout Learn.org.