10 Best Colleges for C Students in 2025

Students with average grades may worry about getting through the college admissions process. Fortunately, many excellent colleges recognize the academic potential of C students and consider more than just grades.

Colleges that accept a lower GPA may consider other factors, such as test scores, extracurriculars, or recommendations for acceptance decisions. Other colleges for B and C students may have an open admissions policy, guaranteeing a spot to any high school graduate. Below, we explore colleges for C students that offer academic opportunities, learning support, and more.

What Types of Colleges Are Best for C Students?

Colleges for C students typically accept applicants with GPAs between 2.0 and 2.7. Colleges that accept a 2.5 GPA or below often have less strict admissions criteria and may include open enrollment policies or guaranteed admission based on minimum GPAs. Many colleges for B and C students offer robust support systems and resources to help students excel academically and personally.

Open-Admission Colleges

Open-admission colleges do not require a minimum GPA for enrollment, allowing students to pursue higher education without the pressure of strict academic standards. Students generally only need a high school diploma or GED for acceptance.

Public Universities With Lower Admission Requirements

Many public universities have lower admission standards, making them accessible to C students. These schools often offer a variety of degree programs and resources to support students in their academic journeys.

Community Colleges (With Transfer Pathways to Universities)

Community colleges provide an excellent option for C students, offering affordable education and the opportunity to transfer to four-year universities. Some community colleges even have agreements with four-year schools to facilitate transfer credits and smooth transitions into various programs.

Private Colleges With Flexible Admissions

Some private colleges have adopted flexible admissions policies, allowing students with lower GPAs to apply. These institutions often provide personalized support and resources to help students thrive academically.

Best Colleges For C Students

If you're looking for colleges that accept an average GPA, keep reading to find top accredited schools that offer a variety of degree programs and unique opportunities. Many options are available, whether you're looking for online options or desire a vibrant campus experience.

1. Western Governors University

While based in Utah, Western Governors University is primarily a private distance learning institution. With a 100% acceptance rate, it's a great choice for C students seeking a flexible college experience.

Applicants must possess a high school diploma or equivalent to enroll in a bachelor's degree program. Students benefit from the independent learning model, where they take as many courses as they wish during the semester. Tuition is a flat rate of $3,825 per six-month term. This flexibility allows students to save money on tuition and earn their degrees quickly.

2. Idaho State University

Idaho State University is a public four-year institution. Students may enroll in online programs or pursue their degrees on campus in Pocatello. To gain acceptance, high school students must have a 2.5 GPA in required courses; however, students who don't meet this requirement may still be considered for admission.

Idaho undergraduates pay $8,610 for the academic year, and out-of-state students pay $27,720. Students may complete the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) for financial aid.

3. Bellevue University

Bellevue University in Nebraska offers in-person learning, though it's well-known for its numerous online degree programs. As an open-admissions university, it accepts students from diverse academic backgrounds. Students don't need to submit test scores and must only show proof of high school completion to be accepted.

Tuition for online programs is $449 per credit hour. On-campus programs are slightly more affordable�students pay $339. Incoming freshmen may apply to several renewable institutional scholarships, including the Bellevue Community Scholarship. This scholarship is awarded to high school seniors from Bellevue East High School and Bellevue West High School who have at least a 2.0 GPA and show engagement with the community.

4. Wilmington University

Wilmington University, accredited by the Middle States Commission on Higher Education (MSCHE), is a private, non-profit school in Delaware. With multiple start dates throughout the year and an open admissions policy, motivated students can start their academic journeys quickly. Though ACT and SAT scores aren't necessary for acceptance, recent high school graduates may submit them to avoid taking the required placement exams.

Tuition rates range from $342 to $419 per credit hour, and active-duty service members receive a discounted rate of $250. Students can use payment plans to spread tuition over four installments over the semester.

5. University of Kansas

The University of Kansas is a large public research institution that's well-known for its quality educational opportunities. With an 88% acceptance rate, it's accessible to C students who are motivated to pursue higher education. Students with a 2.0 GPA and at least a 21 ACT score or a 1060 SAT score are guaranteed admission.

Full-time Kansas residents pay $365.60 per credit hour, while non-residents pay $976.60. Students may complete FAFSA to help manage these tuition costs.

6. New York City College of Technology

At New York City College of Technology, students can pursue various associate and bachelor's degrees in person and online. Tuition is $305 per credit and financial aid is available to qualifying students.

There are different admissions requirements for various types of students, including those pursuing an associate degree, bachelor's degree, or transferring into a program. To enter one of the associate programs, students only need a 1.7 GPA or a C- for acceptance. For students seeking a bachelor's degree, a minimum GPA of 2.0 or C average is required. Likewise, transfer college students should also have a 2.0 GPA and have college-level English and math competencies.

7. Upper Iowa University

Upper Iowa University offers online and in-person degree programs on campus in Fayette. The acceptance rate is 93% and the admissions team considers a range of factors when making a decision, including extracurriculars, high school coursework, and class rank. Students who hold a 2.4 GPA or higher don't have to submit SAT or ACT scores.

On-campus students pay $9,400 per semester, while online students pay $505 per credit hour. Many renewable scholarships are available for those in their freshman year or transferring into the school. The Albright Scholarship is available for students with a 2.0 GPA and above.

8. California State University East Bay

California State University East Bay is a public research university with a 97% acceptance rate. Tuition for the year is $7,583 and financial aid is available to help pay for college.

Students' college applications go through an index process, in which multiple factors are considered. Students need only a 2.5 GPA for acceptance; however, students with a GPA of 2.0 to 2.49 can still get accepted. For students with these GPAs, additional factors, like taking more STEM classes than necessary, being a first-generation student, or living in the local area, can increase your chances of acceptance. Students with a GPA below 2.0 aren't considered for admission.

9. University of Arizona

The University of Arizona is a public four-year school with a student population of over 50,000. Students need only a 2.0 GPA to gain admittance and don't have to submit test scores. The acceptance rate is 86%, which makes it a good choice for C students.

The estimated tuition for Arizona students is $13,900. With over 90% of students receiving financial aid, students can lower the cost of attendance with a combination of loans, grants, and scholarships.

10. New England College

New England College is a private four-year school that offers degree programs online and in-person. It has a rolling admissions process and no application fee. Students don't need to provide test scores to be considered and with an acceptance rate of 96%, it's easy to get accepted.

Tuition is $20,792 per semester; however, many scholarships and aid opportunities are available that lower this cost. Students can also use payment plans to help manage tuition costs.

How We Rank Schools

We compiled this list of colleges that accept C students based on several ranking factors. Some of our considerations include:

• Accreditation: All schools on this list are accredited by recognized organizations like the MSCHE. This accreditation ensures students can receive federal financial aid.
• GPA Accepted: We chose colleges that accept an average GPA to ensure the best chances of admission for C students.
• Acceptance Rates: All schools on this list have a high acceptance rate, and may even have an open admissions policy.

FAQs About the Best Colleges for C-Average Students

If you're trying to find colleges for average students, you may have questions about your options. Below, we discuss grades and top colleges that accept average students.

How Much Do Grades Matter for College Admissions?

Generally, a college admissions team admits students who can thrive in higher education. This may mean looking at GPA, test scores, leadership potential, and other factors. According to U.S. News & World Report, the main factor is high school GPA.

All of the schools on this list accept students with at least a C average. Students who don't meet this GPA criteria may still be accepted based on other considerations.

Do Colleges Accept C Grades?

Yes, many colleges accept C grades; however, competitive schools, like Ivy League universities, may be a reach. To enroll at a school with a low acceptance rate, an applicant must demonstrate competency and unique qualifications, like extracurriculars or accomplishments.

What Are the Best Colleges for Students With a 2.0 GPA?

Students searching for colleges that accept a 2.0 GPA can find many options throughout the U.S. From large public universities to private liberal arts colleges, students with low grades can find an option to suit their academic needs. Bellevue University and Western Governors University have an open admissions policy, which makes them great options for students with a 2.0 GPA.

Explore Colleges and Universities

If you're beginning your college search, check out the schools here on Learn.org. Many affordable and accessible college opportunities are within reach. Contact any school that interests you to find more information on their admissions process and financial aid opportunities.