Elementary Education Degree GPA Requirements | Learn.org

If you're hoping to become an elementary school teacher, you'll need a relevant college degree. A bachelor's degree in elementary education is an excellent choice. But perhaps you have questions about earning this degree. Specifically, you'd like to know about the GPA requirements for this type of program.

Graduating high school students should have a GPA of at least 2.0. This is typically the minimum GPA most colleges require, as well as the minimum for most financial aid options. Elementary education programs may have additional admission requirements, including a higher GPA, though the requirements can vary from school to school.

Keep reading for more information.

Minimum GPA Requirements for Admission

Not all colleges have minimum GPA requirements for incoming freshmen. Some schools focus more on SAT/ACT scores, admissions essays, or other factors when deciding whether to admit certain candidates.

That said, most schools look for a minimum high school GPA of 2.0 on a 4.0 scale. Students unable to maintain this GPA may still be admitted at some schools, but their chances of admission are much better the higher their GPA is.

GPA Requirements for Transfer Students

If you're a transfer student with some college experience already under your belt, you may be subject to higher GPA requirements. Some schools may expect you to not only have a minimum GPA but may also want you to have most of your general education requirements out of the way.

GPA requirements for transfer students can vary widely. Let's look at some top schools and their GPA requirements:

• Oklahoma State University: 2.25
• Arizona State University: 2.50
• University of California Los Angeles: 3.2

GPA Requirements During the Elementary Education Program

Many schools require you to complete a separate admissions process for acceptance into teacher education programs, including elementary education degrees. Students are often required to have a higher cumulative GPA for admission into these programs.

Again, though, the required GPA may vary by school. Some colleges and universities don't have minimum GPA requirements but still expect you to meet average academic standards.

It's a good idea to check with your school to find out about admission into their elementary education program and what GPA is expected of you. As a general rule of thumb, shoot for a GPA of 2.25 to 2.50.

Maintaining a Minimum GPA

It's important to maintain your GPA throughout your college experience. If your GPA falls below the required minimum, you may be placed on academic probation and unable to advance through your courses or graduate.

If you're struggling to keep your GPA up, consider taking classes in subjects you know best as electives. You can also seek additional help like tutoring services or study groups to help improve your performance in required courses you're struggling with.

GPA for Fieldwork and Student Teaching Eligibility

All teacher preparation programs require field experiences like practicums, internships, or student teaching experiences to fulfill teacher licensure requirements. You may need to maintain a minimum GPA to participate in these experiences, which typically take place during your senior year.

Though requirements will vary by school, higher GPAs are always better than lower GPAs. Michigan State University requires a GPA of 2.50 to advance to their internship year. Whether you attend Michigan State or another school, aiming for a GPA of 2.50 to 3.0 is recommended.

Academic Probation and GPA Recovery

If you fail to maintain minimum GPA requirements while working toward your bachelor's degree, the school may place you on academic probation. You may be required to take remedial courses or fulfill certain requirements to return to good standing.

The good news is that colleges have many options to help students recover from low GPAs to meet their degree requirements. Speak with an academic advisor at your school to find out about specific courses you can take and other resources that may be present to help you get your grades back up.

GPA Requirements for Certification and Licensure

Your college of education may have specific GPA requirements to graduate with your elementary education degree. This may be because many states require graduating teacher candidates to have a minimum GPA to pursue licensure.

Let's look at some top schools and their education degree program graduation requirements:

• Purdue University: 2.80
• West Virginia University: 2.75
• University of Southern Indiana: 2.75

State Requirements for Teacher Certification

All states have slightly different requirements for teacher candidates, but all expect you to meet certain competencies. Some states may require you to meet minimum GPA requirements to earn your state license or to become certified in specific areas.

State requirements are commonly reflected in graduation requirements at schools in the state. It's common for states to expect a minimum cumulative GPA of 2.75 but check with your state for specific requirements that may apply to you.

GPA's Impact on Passing State Exams

Your GPA from your educator preparation program may affect your eligibility to sit for state exams. If your state requires a minimum GPA, you must meet that GPA to take any necessary state exams.

As long as you meet basic eligibility requirements, your GPA will not affect your ability to pass the exams. Learners are encouraged to study and prepare for the exams to ensure they demonstrate proficiency in all content areas and show promise in their ability to manage an elementary classroom.

Does GPA Matter After Graduation?

Your college GPA can impact your life after graduation, especially as you search for your first job. That said, as you gain professional experience, your GPA will gradually become less important as employers become more focused on your employment history.

Job Market and GPA

Getting a job doesn't necessarily depend on having a good GPA. Many employers feel that a GPA is not an accurate representation of how you will perform on the job, so they don't give it much consideration when considering potential employees. That said, it can be helpful when it comes to landing your first job since employers won't have much, aside from your academic history, to take into consideration.

Do You Need a Good GPA To Be a Teacher?

Having a good GPA isn't essential to becoming a teacher. If you complete your professional education, pass a background check, and successfully obtain any necessary licenses and certifications, you will qualify for various private and public school teaching jobs.

Again, though, having a good GPA can make it easier for you to land your first job and may help you demonstrate that you have a strong understanding of classroom management and other important teaching skills.

FAQs About GPA Requirements for Elementary Education Majors

If you still have questions about the GPA you should have as an elementary education student, keep reading. Below, we'll answer some frequently asked questions you may be wondering about.

Can I Get into an Education Program with a Low GPA?

Not all schools have minimum GPA requirements, so it is possible to get accepted even with a low GPA. However, your chances of getting accepted go up the higher your GPA is, and those with higher GPAs are more likely to get accepted into high-quality and respected programs. It's best to aim for a GPA of at least 2.00 to 2.50 when applying to the college of your choice.

What Happens if My GPA Falls Below the Requirement During the Program?

If your school requires that you maintain a minimum GPA and you fall below the requirement, you may be placed on academic probation. You must follow the instructions your school outlines for recovering your GPA and returning to good standing. This may involve taking remedial courses or agreeing to tutoring.

Does GPA Affect Student Teaching Placement?

It's important to have a good GPA not only in your education courses but in all the coursework you complete. While it won't necessarily affect where you are placed for student teaching, your GPA may impact your ability to complete the student teaching requirements necessary for graduation.

What GPA Do I Need for Teacher Certification?

Depending on where you reside or apply for teaching certification, you may face different GPA requirements when getting certified. Not all states have a minimum GPA requirement, but some do.

Check with your state's department of education for specific information. In the meantime, aim to graduate from your education program with at least a 2.75 cumulative GPA.