Texas Colleges for a 3.5 GPA

Texas 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 Texas colleges like Texas A & M University College Station, Texas State University and University of Houston. Based on incoming freshman GPA data for texas schools, our analysis indicates that 42 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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42 results

List of 3.5 GPA Colleges

Displaying 42 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 120 target schools (good chance), 27 reach (harder) schools and 102 safety (easier) schools you can consider.

Texas A & M University College Station
T
College Station, TX

Texas A & M University College Station

Public 4 Year

5 reviews

3.68 Estimated Average GPA

#21 Best Public Universities in America

  • 74,014enrollment
  • $20,375net price
  • 63%acceptance rate
  • 1150-1390SAT range
  • 25-31ACT range
Your 3.5 GPA
Admission Chance53%

Applications Due Dec 1

Texas State University
T
San Marcos, TX

Texas State University

Public 4 Year

9 reviews

3.38 Estimated Average GPA

#7 Best Public Universities in Texas

  • 38,171enrollment
  • $14,120net price
  • 88%acceptance rate
  • 980-1180SAT range
  • 19-26ACT range
Your 3.5 GPA
Admission Chance91%

Applications Due Jun 1

University of Houston
H
Houston, TX

University of Houston

Public 4 Year

7 reviews

3.46 Average GPA

#5 Best Public Universities in Texas

  • 46,700enrollment
  • $14,056net price
  • 66%acceptance rate
  • 1160-1330SAT range
  • 23-29ACT range
Your 3.5 GPA
Admission Chance68%

Applications Due May 31

University of North Texas
N
Denton, TX

University of North Texas

Public 4 Year

3 reviews

3.46 Estimated Average GPA

#8 Best Public Universities in Texas

  • 44,767enrollment
  • $15,283net price
  • 79%acceptance rate
  • 1000-1240SAT range
  • 19-27ACT range
Your 3.5 GPA
Admission Chance81%

Applications Due Aug 1

Texas Christian University
T
Fort Worth, TX

Texas Christian University

Private 4 Year

4 reviews

3.68 Estimated Average GPA

#4 Best Private Colleges in Texas

  • 12,273enrollment
  • $44,190net price
  • 56%acceptance rate
  • 1140-1360SAT range
  • 26-31ACT range
Your 3.5 GPA
Admission Chance45%

Applications Due Feb 1

Southern Methodist University
S
Dallas, TX

Southern Methodist University

Private 4 Year

0 reviews

3.68 Average GPA

#2 Best Colleges in Texas

  • 12,053enrollment
  • $45,094net price
  • 52%acceptance rate
  • 1370-1510SAT range
  • 31-34ACT range
Your 3.5 GPA
Admission Chance42%

Applications Due Jan 15

The University of Texas at Arlington
T
Arlington, TX

The University of Texas at Arlington

Public 4 Year

3 reviews

3.43 Estimated Average GPA

#9 Best Public Universities in Texas

  • 43,946enrollment
  • $14,262net price
  • 81%acceptance rate
  • 1000-1240SAT range
  • 18-26ACT range
Your 3.5 GPA
Admission Chance83%

Applications Due Jun 1

The University of Texas at San Antonio
T
San Antonio, TX

The University of Texas at San Antonio

Public 4 Year

2 reviews

3.36 Estimated Average GPA

#21 Best Public Universities in Texas

  • 34,393enrollment
  • $12,664net price
  • 87%acceptance rate
  • 1010-1220SAT range
  • 19-26ACT range
Your 3.5 GPA
Admission Chance90%

Applications Due Jun 1

Abilene Christian University
A
Abilene, TX

Abilene Christian University

Private 4 Year

6 reviews

3.65 Average GPA

#10 Best Private Colleges in Texas

  • 5,079enrollment
  • $28,978net price
  • 66%acceptance rate
  • 1070-1280SAT range
  • 21-28ACT range
Your 3.5 GPA
Admission Chance58%

Applications Due Feb 15

Prairie View A & M University
P
HBCU
Prairie View, TX

Prairie View A & M University

Public 4 Year

1 reviews

3.3 Average GPA

#26 Best Public Universities in Texas

  • 9,056enrollment
  • $12,875net price
  • 76%acceptance rate
  • 860-1050SAT range
  • 16-21ACT range
Your 3.5 GPA
Admission Chance84%

Applications Due Mar 1

Trinity University
T
San Antonio, TX

Trinity University

Private 4 Year

0 reviews

3.68 Average GPA

#3 Best Colleges in Texas

  • 2,692enrollment
  • $30,038net price
  • 31%acceptance rate
  • 1310-1470SAT range
  • 29-33ACT range
Your 3.5 GPA
Admission Chance23%

Applications Due Jan 15

Dallas Baptist University
D
Dallas, TX

Dallas Baptist University

Private 4 Year

1 reviews

3.46 Average GPA

#15 Best Private Colleges in Texas

  • 4,348enrollment
  • $27,607net price
  • 91%acceptance rate
  • 970-1200SAT range
  • 19-25ACT range
Your 3.5 GPA
Admission Chance92%

Lamar University
L
Beaumont, TX

Lamar University

Public 4 Year

3 reviews

3.4 Average GPA

#25 Best Public Universities in Texas

  • 16,803enrollment
  • $11,757net price
  • 84%acceptance rate
  • 830-1030SAT range
  • 14-19ACT range
Your 3.5 GPA
Admission Chance87%

University of the Incarnate Word
T
San Antonio, TX

University of the Incarnate Word

Private 4 Year

0 reviews

3.5 Average GPA

#22 Best Private Colleges in Texas

  • 7,305enrollment
  • $20,832net price
  • 94%acceptance rate
  • 910-1133SAT range
  • 16-23ACT range
Your 3.5 GPA
Admission Chance94%

University of St Thomas
S
Houston, TX

University of St Thomas

Private 4 Year

0 reviews

3.53 Average GPA

#12 Best Private Colleges in Texas

  • 3,588enrollment
  • $19,207net price
  • 97%acceptance rate
  • 1010-1300SAT range
  • 24-29ACT range
Your 3.5 GPA
Admission Chance97%

Applications Due Aug 15

University of Mary Hardin Baylor
M
Belton, TX

University of Mary Hardin Baylor

Private 4 Year

0 reviews

3.53 Average GPA

#21 Best Private Colleges in Texas

  • 3,575enrollment
  • $31,197net price
  • 96%acceptance rate
  • 970-1200SAT range
  • 19-27ACT range
Your 3.5 GPA
Admission Chance96%

St. Mary's University
S
San Antonio, TX

St. Mary's University

Private 4 Year

0 reviews

3.61 Average GPA

#13 Best Private Colleges in Texas

  • 3,253enrollment
  • $21,379net price
  • 86%acceptance rate
  • 1020-1220SAT range
  • 20-26ACT range
Your 3.5 GPA
Admission Chance83%

Applications Due Jan 15

Austin College
A
Sherman, TX

Austin College

Private 4 Year

0 reviews

3.63 Average GPA

#3 Best Value Colleges in Texas

  • 1,182enrollment
  • $24,739net price
  • 54%acceptance rate
  • 1160-1370SAT range
  • 24-30ACT range
Your 3.5 GPA
Admission Chance46%

Applications Due Jul 31