Colleges for a 2.5 GPA

colleges that accept a 2.5 grade point average

What is a 2.5 GPA?

A 2.5 grade point average is a numerical representation of your course letter grades on a 4.0 scale. Your 2.5 GPA indicates you averaged C+ grades in your classes and delivered satisfactory but below average performance. The percent equivalent of a 2.5 grade point average is 78% on the percentage grading scale. This means that you scored an average of 78% on tests and assignments. GPA values for C+ letter grades range from 2.3 to 2.6. Your 2.5 GPA positions you in the middle of the C+ range, demonstrating you have likely earned a mix of B's (3.0) and C's (2.0). Learn more about what the C+ letter grade signifies.

Is a 2.5 GPA good or bad?

A 2.5 isn't a particularly strong GPA. It's well below the U.S. average high school GPA (3.1) and further behind the average 3.15 GPA for college-bound students. You have earned mostly C's and B's, which will get you though high school but isn't very competitive for applying to colleges. Freshman and sophomores still have time to pull their GPA up from a 2.5 to a 3.0 which is much better for applying to colleges. Juniors and seniors face more limited options. If you graduate high school with a 2.5, you face limited selective, four-year college choices. You will find more options if you also consider colleges that have open admissions to all students regardless of GPA.

What colleges can I get into with a 2.5 GPA?

Graduating with a high school GPA of 2.5 places you within of the academic range at colleges like Shaw University, Saint Augustines College and Paul Quinn College. Based on incoming freshman GPA data for U.S. schools, our analysis indicates that 34 colleges would consider your 2.5 GPA competitive. The most popular colleges, historically accepting students with GPAs within the range of 2.3 to 2.7 (2.5 +/- 0.2), are listed below. To view your chances of admission at each school, scroll down and explore the full list.

Raise a 2.5 GPA to a 3.0

If you have a low GPA and have decided to take action to improve your grades, congratulations setting a goal is an important first step. A 3.0 is a good target as it will open many more doors for you when you apply to colleges.

In order to increase your 2.5 you will need to take some steps

  • Attend all classes
  • Pay attention and take good notes in class
  • Do all of your assignments and turn them in on time
  • Practice good study habits. Every night, dedicate a block of several hours for doing homework, reviewing class notes and studying for tests
  • Ask your teacher for extra help outside of class
  • Seek assistance from a tutor for subjects you're having trouble with
  • Make friends with someone who is doing well in a class and see if they are willing to help you

Next an important consideration is if it's mathematically possible and realistic to achieve a 3.0. This will depend greatly on how far along you are in school as it gets progressively harder to increase a grade average. Consult the table below for a detailed look at your highest possible GPA and what grades it will take to get there.

Demographic Statistics

Let's examine how a 2.5 GPA stacks up to the national high school averages across various demographic groups

Gender

  • Male: A 2.5 is 0.5 points (17%) lower than the average male student GPA of 3.0
  • Female: A 2.5 is 0.7 points (23%) lower than the average female student GPA of 3.23

Race/ethnicity

  • White: A 2.5 is 0.7 points (23%) lower than the average white student GPA of 3.23
  • Black: A 2.5 is 0.3 points (12%) lower than the average black student GPA of 2.83
  • Hispanic: A 2.5 is 0.5 points (15%) lower than the average Hispanic student GPA of 2.95
  • Asian/Pacific Islander: A 2.5 is 0.9 points (26%) lower 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 2.5 GPA?

Consider the following tips to improve or maintain your 2.5 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 2.5 GPA?

The table below will help you see how high or low you can possibly change your GPA if you currently have a 2.5. 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.

Freshmen with a 2.5 after first semester can still possibly raise their GPA as high as a 3.81 or drop it to a 0.31. There is still a lot of time to change your GPA before graduation and it can vary by 3.50 grade points in the future.

Possible grades you can raise your 2.5 GPA to before graduation for freshmen
Future Grades 1st Semester Completed 2nd Semester Completed
A 3.81 3.62
A- 3.55 3.40
B+ 3.20 3.10
B 2.94 2.88
B- 2.68 2.65
C+ 2.32 2.35
C 2.06 2.12
C- 1.80 1.90
D+ 1.45 1.60
D 1.19 1.38
D- 0.92 1.15
F 0.31 0.62

Sophomores with a 2.5 after first semester can still raise their GPA as high as a 3.44 or see it fall to a 0.94. You have some time to change your GPA before graduation and it can vary by 2.50 grade points in the future.

Possible grades you can raise your 2.5 GPA to before graduation for sophomores
Future Grades 1st Semester Completed 2nd Semester Completed
A 3.44 3.25
A- 3.25 3.10
B+ 3.00 2.90
B 2.81 2.75
B- 2.62 2.60
C+ 2.38 2.40
C 2.19 2.25
C- 2.00 2.10
D+ 1.75 1.90
D 1.56 1.75
D- 1.38 1.60
F 0.94 1.25

Juniors with a 2.5 after first semester can still raise their GPA to a 3.06 or lower it to a 1.56. You have limited classes left to change your GPA before graduation and it can vary by 1.50 grade points in the future.

Possible grades you can raise your 2.5 GPA to before graduation for juniors
Future Grades 1st Semester Completed 2nd Semester Completed
A 3.06 2.88
A- 2.95 2.80
B+ 2.80 2.70
B 2.69 2.62
B- 2.58 2.55
C+ 2.42 2.45
C 2.31 2.38
C- 2.20 2.30
D+ 2.05 2.20
D 1.94 2.12
D- 1.82 2.05
F 1.56 1.88

After first semester senior year your GPA is fairly locked in. A 2.5 can be raised a 2.69 or slip to a 2.19. You have very little time to change your GPA before graduation and it can vary by 0.50 grade points at the most.

Possible grades you can raise your 2.5 GPA to before graduation for seniors
Future Grades 1st Semester Completed 2nd Semester Completed
A 2.69 2.50
A- 2.65 2.50
B+ 2.60 2.50
B 2.56 2.50
B- 2.52 2.50
C+ 2.48 2.50
C 2.44 2.50
C- 2.40 2.50
D+ 2.35 2.50
D 2.31 2.50
D- 2.27 2.50
F 2.19 2.50
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GPA 2.5 Public Private 4 year

34 results nationwide

List of 2.5 GPA Colleges

Displaying 34 colleges where your 2.5 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. Filter by admission chance for 48 target schools (good chance), 345 reach (harder) schools and 1,341 safety (easier) schools you can consider.

Shaw University
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HBCU
Raleigh, NC

Shaw University

Private 4 Year

0 reviews

2.6 Average GPA

 

  • 962enrollment
  • $14,111net price
  • 30%acceptance rate
  • -SAT range
  • -ACT range
Your 2.5 GPA
Admission Chance25%

Applications Due Jul 30

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Saint Augustines College
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HBCU
Raleigh, NC

Saint Augustines College

Private 4 Year

0 reviews

2.5 Average GPA

 

  • 943enrollment
  • $18,373net price
  • 59%acceptance rate
  • 780-940SAT range
  • 12-16ACT range
Your 2.5 GPA
Admission Chance59%

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Paul Quinn College
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P
HBCU
Dallas, TX

Paul Quinn College

Private 4 Year

1 reviews

2.6 Average GPA

 

  • 602enrollment
  • $18,118net price
  • 34%acceptance rate
  • 855-1015SAT range
  • 14-17ACT range
Your 2.5 GPA
Admission Chance29%

Applications Due Jun 1

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Bloomfield College
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B
Bloomfield, NJ

Bloomfield College

Private 4 Year

0 reviews

2.69 Average GPA

 

  • 910enrollment
  • $18,522net price
  • 67%acceptance rate
  • 770-960SAT range
  • 14-16ACT range
Your 2.5 GPA
Admission Chance56%

Applications Due Aug 1

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Johnson C Smith University
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J
HBCU
Charlotte, NC

Johnson C Smith University

Private 4 Year

2 reviews

2.48 Average GPA

#17 Best Private Colleges in North Carolina

  • 1,102enrollment
  • $19,326net price
  • 43%acceptance rate
  • 800-980SAT range
  • 13-18ACT range
Your 2.5 GPA
Admission Chance44%

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SUNY Morrisville
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S
Morrisville, NY
 

SUNY Morrisville

Public 4 Year

0 reviews

2.7 Average GPA

#32 Best Public Universities in New York

  • 2,040enrollment
  • $16,855net price
  • 91%acceptance rate
  • 860-1060SAT range
  • 18-23ACT range
Your 2.5 GPA
Admission Chance86%

Applications Due Aug 15

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Cheyney University of Pennsylvania
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HBCU
Cheyney, PA

Cheyney University of Pennsylvania

Public 4 Year

1 reviews

2.37 Average GPA

 

  • 724enrollment
  • $8,460net price
  • 100%acceptance rate
  • -SAT range
  • -ACT range
Your 2.5 GPA

Applications Due Mar 31

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Pensacola State College
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Pensacola, FL
 

Pensacola State College

Public 4 Year

0 reviews

2.54 Average GPA

 

  • 8,518enrollment
  • $3,436net price
  • 100%acceptance rate
  • -SAT range
  • -ACT range
Your 2.5 GPA

Applications Due Aug 30

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Coppin State University
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C
HBCU
Baltimore, MD

Coppin State University

Public 4 Year

0 reviews

2.62 Average GPA

#7 Best Public Universities in Maryland

  • 2,101enrollment
  • $7,684net price
  • 50%acceptance rate
  • 860-1040SAT range
  • -ACT range
Your 2.5 GPA
Admission Chance43%

Applications Due Jul 15

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University of South Carolina Upstate
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S
Spartanburg, SC
 

University of South Carolina Upstate

Public 4 Year

0 reviews

2.53 Average GPA

#7 Best Public Universities in South Carolina

  • 4,946enrollment
  • $13,794net price
  • 70%acceptance rate
  • 1000-1170SAT range
  • 19-25ACT range
Your 2.5 GPA
Admission Chance68%

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Edward Waters College
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E
HBCU
Jacksonville, FL

Edward Waters College

Private 4 Year

0 reviews

2.64 Average GPA

 

  • 1,175enrollment
  • $13,763net price
  • 85%acceptance rate
  • 820-990SAT range
  • 14-18ACT range
Your 2.5 GPA
Admission Chance80%

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Le Moyne Owen College
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HBCU
Memphis, TN
 

Le Moyne Owen College

Private 4 Year

0 reviews

2.5 Average GPA

 

  • 646enrollment
  • $8,362net price
  • 97%acceptance rate
  • 898-1093SAT range
  • 13-17ACT range
Your 2.5 GPA
Admission Chance97%

Applications Due Apr 1

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Livingstone College
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HBCU
Salisbury, NC

Livingstone College

Private 4 Year

0 reviews

2.64 Estimated Average GPA

 

  • 814enrollment
  • $15,162net price
  • 74%acceptance rate
  • 800-960SAT range
  • 14-21ACT range
Your 2.5 GPA
Admission Chance67%

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Southern University at New Orleans
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S
HBCU
New Orleans, LA

Southern University at New Orleans

Public 4 Year

0 reviews

2.4 Average GPA

 

  • 2,059enrollment
  • $14,825net price
  • 60%acceptance rate
  • -SAT range
  • 15-18ACT range
Your 2.5 GPA
Admission Chance65%

Applications Due Jul 1

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Florida Memorial University
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F
HBCU
Miami Gardens, FL
 

Florida Memorial University

Private 4 Year

0 reviews

2.7 Average GPA

 

  • 1,365enrollment
  • $18,366net price
  • 74%acceptance rate
  • -SAT range
  • -ACT range
Your 2.5 GPA
Admission Chance64%

Applications Due Jul 1

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Lane College
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HBCU
Jackson, TN

Lane College

Private 4 Year

1 reviews

2.57 Average GPA

 

  • 822enrollment
  • $13,384net price
  • 100%acceptance rate
  • -SAT range
  • -ACT range
Your 2.5 GPA

Applications Due Aug 21

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Rust College
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HBCU
Holly Springs, MS

Rust College

Private 4 Year

2 reviews

2.66 Average GPA

 

  • 429enrollment
  • $8,234net price
  • 35%acceptance rate
  • 440-1339SAT range
  • 17-18ACT range
Your 2.5 GPA
Admission Chance27%

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Chipola College
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C
Marianna, FL
 

Chipola College

Public 4 Year

0 reviews

2.5 Average GPA

 

  • 1,820enrollment
  • $2,887net price
  • 100%acceptance rate
  • -SAT range
  • -ACT range
Your 2.5 GPA

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