3.6 GPA Colleges: Browse Schools That Accept a 3.6 GPA
GPA, or grade point average, is a simplified number that is used by colleges and universities to get an idea of your general academic performance. It takes the average of all high school grades and fits them on a scale from 0.01 to 4.0 and the numbers correlate to letter grades. A 3.6 GPA correlates to an A- average, indicative of an academic record consisting of good grades in all subjects.
Is a 3.6 GPA Good?
A 3.6 GPA is not only well above the national average GPA of 3.0 for all high school graduates, it’s also entering the realm of competitiveness for more select colleges. Since one of the goals of establishing a high GPA is to have as many options as possible for college, a 3.6 GPA will be very helpful in accomplishing that objective. By those standards, yes, a 3.6 GPA is good.
What Colleges Can I Get Into With a 3.6 GPA?
A 3.6 GPA makes it possible to apply to a wide variety of colleges from large public universities to more selective private schools. We’ve put together a list of these schools below. While no GPA guarantees admission, all of these institutions have a history of admitting students with a 3.6-3.7 GPA.
First and foremost, know that you’re in an excellent place for college acceptance. Across the board, the best course of action is to keep up the great work.
For freshmen and sophomores, take note of the study habits and testing strategies that helped earn a 3.6 GPA and continue nurturing them, but, since you’re in such a good place academically, focusing on extracurricular activities will be beneficial. Colleges and universities are looking for well-rounded students who have dedicated time and passion to after school clubs and organizations, community service projects, or in sport teams.
However, if you’re set on improving your GPA as much as possible, it’s still possible to reach a 3.9 GPA, but it would require nearly flawless semesters (at 4.0) beginning at first semester freshman year. Sophomores can get as high as 3.8 with perfect grades. Adding in AP or honors classes can offer higher GPAs, if those class options are available at your high school.
If you’re a junior, it’s not possible to raise a 3.6 GPA more than a tenth in time for the college application process. Instead, concentrate on preparing for a standardized test like the ACT or SAT. Most colleges evaluate standardized test performance and GPA equally on your application so be sure to devote enough time to prepare for these exams. Take a few practice tests and time yourself in order to feel as prepared as possible on the day of the exam. If you have enough room on your schedule, sign up for a test prep class offered by your school.
For seniors, it’s time to focus on making sure the other parts of your application are just as impressive as a 3.6 GPA. Visit your school’s college resource center and have the college counselor give your essay a thorough critique. Attend sessions with admissions officers from various colleges and network with them to find out what they’re looking for in a competitive application. Be sure to list all of your after school and volunteer activities because every little bit helps, especially with some of the more competitive schools that consider students with a 3.6 GPA.
What Are Colleges Looking At Other Than a 3.6 High School GPA?
Applications that holistically show applicants is the name of game! While there’s definitely a spotlight on GPA and standardized test scores, colleges also want to see what you’re interested in and what you’ve been a part of throughout your high school career. Make sure to include as many of the following as possible in your application:
- SAT Scores / ACT Scores
- Sports
- Club Affiliations
- Community Service
- Extracurricular Activities
- Job History / Internships / Special Projects
Frequently Asked Questions
Is a 3.6 GPA in high school considered good?
The GPA of the average high school graduate is 3.0, so it’s pretty safe to say that a 3.6 GPA is considered “good.” You’re eligible for acceptance into the vast majority of colleges, even competitive institutions!
What colleges can I get into with a 3.6 GPA?
You can apply at a large majority of colleges — including competitive ones — with reasonable expectations of acceptance. Among the broad list of colleges you should consider, take a look at Pennsylvania State University, New York University, and the University of Miami. The only colleges and universities they may be a reach would be the Ivy League institutions, otherwise known as ultra-competitive institutions where even a 4.0 and 36 ACT don’t guarantee acceptance.
What percentile is a 3.6 GPA?
A 3.6 GPA, or A- average letter grade, is a percentile of 91%.
What scholarships can you get with a 3.6 GPA?
You’re eligible for a majority of scholarships. There are a scant few that require a 4.0 GPA, but those are few and far between. Start applying to any and all scholarships you’re eligible for because even small amounts can go a long way to offsetting the cost of college tuition.
