4.0 GPA Colleges: Browse Schools That Accept a 4.0 GPA
Grade point average (GPA) is a measure of academic performance that assigns a numeric value to all final grades and computes your average. A 4.0 GPA equates to an “A+” grade and indicates that you have received an A+ in every class.
Is a 4.0 GPA Good?
GPA is measured on a 4.0 scale, with 4.0 as the highest achievable score with a regular class load, otherwise known as an unweighted GPA. It demonstrates academic excellence and the ability to earn the highest possible grade in every class. Regarding college applications, a 4.0 GPA far exceeds the 3.0 national average for high school graduates, and is more on par with what very selective institutions, such as those in the Ivy League, seek out.
What Colleges Can You Apply to With a 4.0 GPA?
A 4.0 GPA is at the very top of the scale and makes you eligible for admission at every school. From large public universities to small private colleges, we’ve assembled a representative sample of these institutions below. Be aware that no GPA guarantees acceptance but all of these institutions have a history of admitting students with a 4.0 GPA.
For freshmen and sophomores, the best course of action is to keep it up. You’re already in an amazing place so keep up the stellar work. If you want to challenge yourself more, consider AP and Honors classes (if you aren’t already taking them). Now is also the ideal time to explore extracurricular activity options. Whether you’re more interested in clubs and organizations, sports, or community service, finding an activity to pursue outside of class will help you find what you’re passionate about, as well as really round out a great college application.
If you’re a junior, it’s time to turn a portion of your focus to preparing for standardized tests. Since most colleges consider ACT or SAT scores on approximately equal footing with GPA, it’s important to devote enough time to prepare. Take a few practice tests and time yourself to get accustomed to the format. Make notes about difficult questions and focus your study time on those areas. If there’s enough time, sign up for a test prep class offered by your high school to ensure you’re as prepared as possible.
For seniors, concentrate on making sure every part of your application lives up to the standard set by your GPA—from the essay to the list of after school activities. Have your college counselor read through your personal statement to make sure that it reflects your skills and accomplishments as well as a 4.0 GPA does. Meet with visiting college admissions officers and network with them to determine what their college or university wants to see on an application.
What Are Colleges Looking At Other Than a 4.0 High School GPA?
Personnel in the admissions office look at potential students holistically — numbers, like those provided by the GPA and standardized testing, are just the beginning of a student’s story. They show that a student can handle the academic rigor at an institution, but admission officers want to see what a student is passionate about, what they do outside of the classroom. Make sure you include as many of the following as possible in your application:
- SAT Scores / ACT Scores
- Extracurricular/Afterschool activities
- Sports
- Application Essays
- Volunteer Work / Community Service
- Jobs / Internships / Special Projects
- FAFSA
Frequently Asked Questions
Is a 4.0 GPA in high school considered good?
Considering it’s highest possible unweighted GPA, it’s a safe bet to say, yes, a 4.0 is a good GPA. The average high school student graduates with a 3.0, so earning a 4.0 is an outstanding achievement.
What colleges can I get into with a 4.0 GPA?
You have a high chance of acceptance at a majority of schools and should apply for numerous competitive institutions, including University of Florida, University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, and Northwestern University, which all accept students with an average GPA of 4.0.
You should also apply to Ivy League institutions such as Harvard College and Brown University, while remembering that incredible students get turned down every year regardless of a perfect GPA or standardized test scores.
What percentile is a 4.0 GPA?
A 4.0 GPA, or A+ GPA, is a percentile between 95% and 100%.
What scholarship can you get with a 4.0 GPA?
You can (and should) apply for all scholarships based on a GPA requirement! You should particularly seek out scholarships with a 3.5 GPA requirement or higher, making the odds you’ll earn the money greater. Even small scholarship amounts can help offset the burden of tuition, so start searching for scholarships today!
