Ohio Colleges for a 3.5 GPA

Ohio colleges that accept a 3.5 grade point average

What is a 3.5 GPA?

A 3.5 grade point average is a numerical representation of your course letter grades on a 4.0 scale. Your 3.5 GPA indicates you averaged B+ grades in your classes and delivered above average performance. The percent equivalent of a 3.5 grade point average is 88% on the percentage grading scale. This means that you scored an average of 88% on tests and assignments. GPA values for B+ letter grades range from 3.3 to 3.6. Your 3.5 GPA positions you in the middle of the B+ range, demonstrating you have likely earned a mix of A's (4.0) and B's (3.0). Learn more about what the B+ letter grade signifies.

Is a 3.5 GPA good?

A 3.5 demonstrates that you are a serious student, well prepared for many selective colleges and universities and is solidly above the the average U.S. high school GPA of 3.0. It indicates you've achieved a balance of A's and B's in your coursework, exemplifying a solid academic performance. 3.5 GPA is often seen as the benchmark for many academic scholarships, honors programs and many selective colleges. There are many large four-year colleges to choose from where a 3.5 is well within their typical GPA range and you will find yourself a strong applicant.

What colleges can I get into with a 3.5 GPA?

Graduating with a high school GPA of 3.5 places you within of the academic range at Ohio colleges like University of Cincinnati Main Campus, Xavier University and Ohio University Main Campus. Based on incoming freshman GPA data for ohio schools, our analysis indicates that 39 colleges would consider your 3.5 GPA competitive. The most popular colleges, historically accepting students with GPAs within the range of 3.3 to 3.7 (3.5 +/- 0.2), are listed below. To view your chances of admission at each school, scroll down and explore the full list.

Cum Laude

Cum laude or "with distinction" is a Latin Honor awarded to graduates with high academic performance. The precise range for cum laude designation varies by school but is generally between a 3.5 and 3.6 GPA. As a result, a graduate with a 3.5 GPA typically qualifies for cum laude honors at graduation.

3.5 GPA honor roll

Many high schools have honor rolls which are published to recognize students with consistently high performance. The qualifications for getting on the honor roll vary from school to school. Frequently, a high and standard honor roll is established with different criteria, sometimes for students above 3.0, 3.5 or 3.75 GPAs. In most cases a 3.5 will get you on the honor roll.

Demographic Statistics

Let's examine how a 3.5 GPA stacks up to the national high school averages across various demographic groups

Gender

  • Male: A 3.5 is 0.5 points (17%) higher than the average male student GPA of 3.0
  • Female: A 3.5 is 0.3 points (8%) higher than the average female student GPA of 3.23

Race/ethnicity

  • White: A 3.5 is 0.3 points (8%) higher than the average white student GPA of 3.23
  • Black: A 3.5 is 0.7 points (24%) higher than the average black student GPA of 2.83
  • Hispanic: A 3.5 is 0.5 points (19%) higher than the average Hispanic student GPA of 2.95
  • Asian/Pacific Islander: A 3.5 is 0.1 points (3%) higher than the average Asian/Pacific Islander student GPA of 3.39

Statistics source: 2019 National Assessment of Educational Progress (NAEP) High School Transcript Study (HSTS)

How can I raise my 3.5 GPA?

Consider the following tips to improve or maintain your 3.5 GPA. These are good study habits to develop in high school which will improve your college admission chances.

  • Identify areas of weakness: Determine which subjects or topics you struggle with and focus on improving those areas. This targeted approach will help you make the most significant impact on your overall GPA.
  • Develop a study schedule: Create a consistent study routine that allocates time for each subject. Establishing regular study habits will help you stay on track and better retain information.
  • Use effective study techniques: Employ proven study techniques like spaced repetition and active recall to enhance your learning and retention.
  • Seek help when needed: Don't hesitate to ask for help from teachers, peers, or tutors if you're struggling with a subject. Most schools offer tutoring services, and your teachers are there to support your learning.
  • Participate in class: Engage in classroom discussions and ask questions. Active participation can deepen your understanding of the material and demonstrate your commitment to learning.
  • Organize your study materials: Keep your notes, assignments, and resources well-organized, making it easier to access and review them when needed.
  • Break down large tasks: Divide complex projects or lengthy assignments into smaller, manageable tasks. This makes it easier to track your progress and reduce feeling overwhelmed.
  • Practice good time management: Use to-do lists or online schedulers to manage your time effectively. Dedicating time for studying, extracurricular activities, and relaxation can help you maintain a healthy balance.
  • Utilize online resources: Take advantage of online resources, such as Khan Academy, YouTube tutorials, or educational websites, to supplement your learning and gain a deeper understanding of challenging topics.
  • Join or form study groups: Collaborate with classmates in study groups to review material, discuss concepts, and prepare for exams. This collaborative learning environment can boost your motivation and understanding of the subject matter.
  • Stay consistent: Consistency is key to improving your GPA. Maintain good study habits, complete assignments on time, and stay focused on your academic goals.
  • Monitor your progress: Track your GPA with a GPA calculator and assess your progress. This will help you stay motivated and adjust your strategies as needed to continue improving.
  • Foster a growth mindset: Believe in your ability to grow and improve. Embrace challenges as opportunities for learning and remind yourself that your efforts will yield results.

Aside from good study habits, chart your path towards your target GPA by understanding what it will take to get there. You can refer to a raise your GPA calculator to check the future grades you need to achieve the GPA you aspire to.

How high can I still increase my 3.5 GPA?

The table below will help you see how high or low you can possibly change your GPA if you currently have a 3.5. As you progress in school it becomes more and more difficult to improve your overall grade point average. Select the tab and table column corresponding to the last semester you completed. Then find a row for your predicted future letter grade average. The result would be your GPA at graduation if you can maintain that letter grade.

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39 results

List of 3.5 GPA Colleges

Displaying 39 colleges where your 3.5 GPA is within the typical range of past accepted students. You have a chance at being accepted but admission may be challenging at more selective colleges. Hint: Filter by admission chance for 99 target schools (good chance), 30 reach (harder) schools and 138 safety (easier) schools you can consider.

University of Cincinnati Main Campus
C
Cincinnati, OH

University of Cincinnati Main Campus

Public 4 Year

2 reviews

3.69 Average GPA

#3 Best Public Universities in Ohio

  • 41,155enrollment
  • $20,149net price
  • 86%acceptance rate
  • 1160-1360SAT range
  • 24-29ACT range
Your 3.5 GPA
Admission Chance80%

Applications Due Mar 1

Xavier University
X
Cincinnati, OH

Xavier University

Private 4 Year

1 reviews

3.68 Average GPA

#8 Best Private Colleges in Ohio

  • 6,114enrollment
  • $31,619net price
  • 85%acceptance rate
  • 1120-1310SAT range
  • 23-30ACT range
Your 3.5 GPA
Admission Chance79%

Ohio University Main Campus
O
Athens, OH

Ohio University Main Campus

Public 4 Year

4 reviews

3.59 Average GPA

#4 Best Public Universities in Ohio

  • 24,145enrollment
  • $20,207net price
  • 87%acceptance rate
  • 1080-1270SAT range
  • 22-27ACT range
Your 3.5 GPA
Admission Chance84%

Applications Due Feb 1

Oberlin College
O
Oberlin, OH

Oberlin College

Private 4 Year

3 reviews

3.67 Average GPA

#4 Best Private Colleges in Ohio

  • 2,992enrollment
  • $46,462net price
  • 35%acceptance rate
  • 1360-1530SAT range
  • 30-33ACT range
Your 3.5 GPA
Admission Chance27%

Applications Due Jan 15

Kent State University at Kent
K
Kent, OH

Kent State University at Kent

Public 4 Year

1 reviews

3.61 Average GPA

#9 Best Public Universities in Ohio

  • 25,854enrollment
  • $19,046net price
  • 88%acceptance rate
  • 990-1220SAT range
  • 18-25ACT range
Your 3.5 GPA
Admission Chance85%

Applications Due Aug 1

Bowling Green State University Main Campus
B
Bowling Green, OH

Bowling Green State University Main Campus

Public 4 Year

0 reviews

3.6 Average GPA

#6 Best Public Universities in Ohio

  • 16,920enrollment
  • $20,485net price
  • 79%acceptance rate
  • 990-1200SAT range
  • 20-25ACT range
Your 3.5 GPA
Admission Chance75%

Applications Due Jul 15

University of Toledo
T
Toledo, OH

University of Toledo

Public 4 Year

0 reviews

3.56 Average GPA

#5 Best Public Universities in Ohio

  • 15,545enrollment
  • $17,654net price
  • 92%acceptance rate
  • 1060-1280SAT range
  • 21-28ACT range
Your 3.5 GPA
Admission Chance91%

Cleveland State University
C
Cleveland, OH

Cleveland State University

Public 4 Year

0 reviews

3.31 Estimated Average GPA

#7 Best Public Universities in Ohio

  • 14,385enrollment
  • $15,719net price
  • 85%acceptance rate
  • 880-1130SAT range
  • 18-25ACT range
Your 3.5 GPA
Admission Chance90%

Applications Due Aug 15

John Carroll University
J
University Heights, OH

John Carroll University

Private 4 Year

0 reviews

3.66 Average GPA

#9 Best Private Colleges in Ohio

  • 2,922enrollment
  • $30,496net price
  • 82%acceptance rate
  • 1160-1320SAT range
  • 25-30ACT range
Your 3.5 GPA
Admission Chance76%

University of Akron Main Campus
A
Akron, OH

University of Akron Main Campus

Public 4 Year

4 reviews

3.47 Average GPA

#8 Best Public Universities in Ohio

  • 13,465enrollment
  • $14,667net price
  • 83%acceptance rate
  • 980-1230SAT range
  • 18-25ACT range
Your 3.5 GPA
Admission Chance84%

Applications Due Aug 1

Youngstown State University
Y
Youngstown, OH

Youngstown State University

Public 4 Year

1 reviews

3.51 Average GPA

#11 Best Public Universities in Ohio

  • 11,071enrollment
  • $11,900net price
  • 81%acceptance rate
  • 830-1160SAT range
  • 18-24ACT range
Your 3.5 GPA
Admission Chance81%

Applications Due Aug 1

Otterbein University
O
Westerville, OH

Otterbein University

Private 4 Year

0 reviews

3.66 Average GPA

#21 Best Private Colleges in Ohio

  • 2,458enrollment
  • $22,661net price
  • 84%acceptance rate
  • 1035-1260SAT range
  • 20-27ACT range
Your 3.5 GPA
Admission Chance78%

Capital University
C
Columbus, OH

Capital University

Private 4 Year

0 reviews

3.63 Average GPA

#22 Best Private Colleges in Ohio

  • 2,617enrollment
  • $24,439net price
  • 72%acceptance rate
  • 960-1186SAT range
  • 18-24ACT range
Your 3.5 GPA
Admission Chance65%

Applications Due May 1

Baldwin Wallace College
B
Berea, OH

Baldwin Wallace College

Private 4 Year

2 reviews

3.7 Average GPA

#10 Best Private Colleges in Ohio

  • 3,220enrollment
  • $28,705net price
  • 77%acceptance rate
  • 1043-1298SAT range
  • 20-27ACT range
Your 3.5 GPA
Admission Chance68%

University of Mount Union
M
Alliance, OH

University of Mount Union

Private 4 Year

0 reviews

3.33 Estimated Average GPA

#19 Best Private Colleges in Ohio

  • 2,130enrollment
  • $23,259net price
  • 76%acceptance rate
  • 960-1180SAT range
  • 19-26ACT range
Your 3.5 GPA
Admission Chance83%

Ohio Wesleyan University
O
Delaware, OH

Ohio Wesleyan University

Private 4 Year

0 reviews

3.54 Average GPA

#13 Best Private Colleges in Ohio

  • 1,410enrollment
  • $27,311net price
  • 52%acceptance rate
  • 1123-1358SAT range
  • 23-30ACT range
Your 3.5 GPA
Admission Chance50%

Applications Due Mar 1

Wright State University Main Campus
W
Dayton, OH

Wright State University Main Campus

Public 4 Year

3 reviews

3.41 Average GPA

#10 Best Public Universities in Ohio

  • 9,678enrollment
  • $15,650net price
  • 95%acceptance rate
  • 913-1168SAT range
  • 17-24ACT range
Your 3.5 GPA
Admission Chance96%

Applications Due Aug 23

Marietta College
M
Marietta, OH

Marietta College

Private 4 Year

0 reviews

3.54 Average GPA

#17 Best Private Colleges in Ohio

  • 1,198enrollment
  • $22,895net price
  • 83%acceptance rate
  • 940-1130SAT range
  • 18-24ACT range
Your 3.5 GPA
Admission Chance82%

Ashland University
A
Ashland, OH
 

Ashland University

Private 4 Year

0 reviews

3.54 Average GPA

#15 Best Private Colleges in Ohio

  • 4,174enrollment
  • $20,342net price
  • 72%acceptance rate
  • 1073-1250SAT range
  • 20-26ACT range
Your 3.5 GPA
Admission Chance70%

Heidelberg University
H
Tiffin, OH
 

Heidelberg University

Private 4 Year

0 reviews

3.33 Average GPA

#27 Best Private Colleges in Ohio

  • 1,086enrollment
  • $20,053net price
  • 71%acceptance rate
  • 1030-1162SAT range
  • 19-24ACT range
Your 3.5 GPA
Admission Chance79%

Muskingum University
M
New Concord, OH
 

Muskingum University

Private 4 Year

0 reviews

3.42 Average GPA

#28 Best Private Colleges in Ohio

  • 2,117enrollment
  • $19,682net price
  • 86%acceptance rate
  • 950-1120SAT range
  • 17-22ACT range
Your 3.5 GPA
Admission Chance88%

Wittenberg University
W
Springfield, OH

Wittenberg University

Private 4 Year

1 reviews

3.6 Average GPA

#3 Best Value Colleges in Ohio

  • 1,299enrollment
  • $22,912net price
  • 94%acceptance rate
  • 1050-1370SAT range
  • 21-28ACT range
Your 3.5 GPA
Admission Chance93%

The University of Findlay
F
Findlay, OH

The University of Findlay

Private 4 Year

0 reviews

3.7 Average GPA

#18 Best Private Colleges in Ohio

  • 4,869enrollment
  • $24,069net price
  • 86%acceptance rate
  • 1010-1213SAT range
  • 19-26ACT range
Your 3.5 GPA
Admission Chance79%

Ohio Dominican University
O
Columbus, OH
 

Ohio Dominican University

Private 4 Year

0 reviews

3.32 Average GPA

 

  • 1,276enrollment
  • $21,881net price
  • 52%acceptance rate
  • -SAT range
  • -ACT range
Your 3.5 GPA
Admission Chance62%

Walsh University
W
North Canton, OH
 

Walsh University

Private 4 Year

0 reviews

3.38 Estimated Average GPA

#20 Best Private Colleges in Ohio

  • 2,309enrollment
  • $20,032net price
  • 73%acceptance rate
  • 1030-1320SAT range
  • 20-26ACT range
Your 3.5 GPA
Admission Chance78%

Wilmington College
W
Wilmington, OH
 

Wilmington College

Private 4 Year

1 reviews

3.47 Average GPA

#31 Best Private Colleges in Ohio

  • 1,046enrollment
  • $24,528net price
  • 88%acceptance rate
  • 850-1010SAT range
  • 16-21ACT range
Your 3.5 GPA
Admission Chance89%

Applications Due Aug 1

Cleveland Institute of Art
C
Cleveland, OH

Cleveland Institute of Art

Private 4 Year

0 reviews

3.48 Average GPA

 

  • 584enrollment
  • $33,395net price
  • 70%acceptance rate
  • 1080-1280SAT range
  • 21-28ACT range
Your 3.5 GPA
Admission Chance71%

Kettering College
K
Kettering, OH
 

Kettering College

Private 4 Year

0 reviews

3.41 Average GPA

 

  • 832enrollment
  • $16,398net price
  • 34%acceptance rate
  • -SAT range
  • 19-24ACT range
Your 3.5 GPA
Admission Chance39%

College of Mount St. Joseph
M
Cincinnati, OH
 

College of Mount St. Joseph

Private 4 Year

0 reviews

3.56 Average GPA

#14 Best Private Colleges in Ohio

  • 2,027enrollment
  • $17,506net price
  • 54%acceptance rate
  • 1068-1233SAT range
  • 21-27ACT range
Your 3.5 GPA
Admission Chance50%

Malone University
M
Canton, OH
 

Malone University

Private 4 Year

0 reviews

3.49 Average GPA

#23 Best Private Colleges in Ohio

  • 1,199enrollment
  • $21,571net price
  • 78%acceptance rate
  • 943-1190SAT range
  • 18-23ACT range
Your 3.5 GPA
Admission Chance78%

Shawnee State University
S
Portsmouth, OH
 

Shawnee State University

Public 4 Year

0 reviews

3.3 Average GPA

 

  • 3,297enrollment
  • $13,313net price
  • 100%acceptance rate
  • -SAT range
  • -ACT range
Your 3.5 GPA

Mount Vernon Nazarene University
M
Mount Vernon, OH
 

Mount Vernon Nazarene University

Private 4 Year

2 reviews

3.55 Average GPA

#25 Best Private Colleges in Ohio

  • 1,941enrollment
  • $23,391net price
  • 85%acceptance rate
  • 963-1228SAT range
  • 18-25ACT range
Your 3.5 GPA
Admission Chance83%

Mount Carmel College of Nursing
M
Columbus, OH
 

Mount Carmel College of Nursing

Private 4 Year

0 reviews

3.63 Average GPA

 

  • 766enrollment
  • $15,006net price
  • 63%acceptance rate
  • -SAT range
  • 17-23ACT range
Your 3.5 GPA
Admission Chance56%

Applications Due Jun 15

Ursuline College
U
Pepper Pike, OH
 

Ursuline College

Private 4 Year

0 reviews

3.46 Average GPA

 

  • 950enrollment
  • $14,502net price
  • 85%acceptance rate
  • 975-1200SAT range
  • 20-22ACT range
Your 3.5 GPA
Admission Chance86%

Applications Due Mar 1

Miami University Middletown
M
Middletown, OH
 

Miami University Middletown

Public 4 Year

0 reviews

3.37 Average GPA

 

  • 1,269enrollment
  • $13,405net price
  • 100%acceptance rate
  • -SAT range
  • -ACT range
Your 3.5 GPA

Ohio University Eastern Campus
O
Saint Clairsville, OH
 

Ohio University Eastern Campus

Public 4 Year

0 reviews

3.39 Average GPA

 

  • 1,143enrollment
  • $7,478net price
  • 100%acceptance rate
  • -SAT range
  • -ACT range
Your 3.5 GPA

Ohio University Zanesville Campus
O
Zanesville, OH
 

Ohio University Zanesville Campus

Public 4 Year

0 reviews

3.32 Average GPA

 

  • 1,923enrollment
  • $8,076net price
  • 100%acceptance rate
  • -SAT range
  • -ACT range
Your 3.5 GPA

Ohio University Chillicothe Campus
O
Chillicothe, OH
 

Ohio University Chillicothe Campus

Public 4 Year

0 reviews

3.35 Average GPA

 

  • 1,928enrollment
  • $8,456net price
  • 100%acceptance rate
  • -SAT range
  • -ACT range
Your 3.5 GPA

Applications Due Aug 25

Ohio University Southern Campus
O
Ironton, OH
 

Ohio University Southern Campus

Public 4 Year

0 reviews

3.37 Average GPA

 

  • 2,006enrollment
  • $8,181net price
  • 100%acceptance rate
  • -SAT range
  • -ACT range
Your 3.5 GPA