Wisconsin Colleges for a 3.5 GPA

Wisconsin 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 Wisconsin colleges like Marquette University, University of Wisconsin Whitewater and Carthage College. Based on incoming freshman GPA data for wisconsin schools, our analysis indicates that 23 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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23 results

List of 3.5 GPA Colleges

Displaying 23 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 69 target schools (good chance), 3 reach (harder) schools and 42 safety (easier) schools you can consider.

Marquette University
M
Milwaukee, WI

Marquette University

Private 4 Year

3 reviews

3.56 Average GPA

#3 Best Colleges in Wisconsin

  • 11,167enrollment
  • $33,136net price
  • 87%acceptance rate
  • 1170-1360SAT range
  • 26-31ACT range
Your 3.5 GPA
Admission Chance85%

Applications Due Dec 1

University of Wisconsin Whitewater
W
Whitewater, WI

University of Wisconsin Whitewater

Public 4 Year

0 reviews

3.3 Average GPA

#9 Best Public Universities in Wisconsin

  • 11,079enrollment
  • $13,322net price
  • 82%acceptance rate
  • -SAT range
  • 19-24ACT range
Your 3.5 GPA
Admission Chance88%

Carthage College
C
Kenosha, WI

Carthage College

Private 4 Year

1 reviews

3.36 Average GPA

#9 Best Private Colleges in Wisconsin

  • 2,667enrollment
  • $26,209net price
  • 82%acceptance rate
  • 980-1200SAT range
  • 20-27ACT range
Your 3.5 GPA
Admission Chance86%

Milwaukee School of Engineering
M
Milwaukee, WI

Milwaukee School of Engineering

Private 4 Year

0 reviews

3.65 Average GPA

#3 Best Value Colleges in Wisconsin

  • 2,729enrollment
  • $25,661net price
  • 63%acceptance rate
  • 1160-1405SAT range
  • 24-30ACT range
Your 3.5 GPA
Admission Chance54%

Applications Due Sep 1

University of Wisconsin Platteville
W
Platteville, WI

University of Wisconsin Platteville

Public 4 Year

4 reviews

3.39 Estimated Average GPA

#4 Best Public Universities in Wisconsin

  • 6,486enrollment
  • $15,595net price
  • 85%acceptance rate
  • -SAT range
  • 20-26ACT range
Your 3.5 GPA
Admission Chance88%

University of Wisconsin La Crosse
W
La Crosse, WI

University of Wisconsin La Crosse

Public 4 Year

0 reviews

3.6 Average GPA

#2 Best Public Universities in Wisconsin

  • 10,274enrollment
  • $13,130net price
  • 74%acceptance rate
  • -SAT range
  • 22-26ACT range
Your 3.5 GPA
Admission Chance69%

University of Wisconsin Eau Claire
W
Eau Claire, WI

University of Wisconsin Eau Claire

Public 4 Year

1 reviews

3.59 Average GPA

#3 Best Public Universities in Wisconsin

  • 10,104enrollment
  • $15,000net price
  • 77%acceptance rate
  • -SAT range
  • 21-26ACT range
Your 3.5 GPA
Admission Chance73%

Applications Due Aug 1

Beloit College
B
Beloit, WI

Beloit College

Private 4 Year

3 reviews

3.33 Average GPA

 

  • 964enrollment
  • $20,192net price
  • 66%acceptance rate
  • 1190-1360SAT range
  • 26-31ACT range
Your 3.5 GPA
Admission Chance74%

Carroll University
C
Waukesha, WI
 

Carroll University

Private 4 Year

0 reviews

3.39 Estimated Average GPA

#7 Best Private Colleges in Wisconsin

  • 3,283enrollment
  • $25,485net price
  • 72%acceptance rate
  • 1060-1340SAT range
  • 22-28ACT range
Your 3.5 GPA
Admission Chance77%

University of Wisconsin Stout
W
Menomonie, WI

University of Wisconsin Stout

Public 4 Year

0 reviews

3.35 Average GPA

#5 Best Public Universities in Wisconsin

  • 7,234enrollment
  • $15,510net price
  • 86%acceptance rate
  • -SAT range
  • 20-25ACT range
Your 3.5 GPA
Admission Chance90%

Applications Due Sep 1

Concordia University Wisconsin
C
Mequon, WI

Concordia University Wisconsin

Private 4 Year

0 reviews

3.52 Average GPA

#4 Best Private Colleges in Wisconsin

  • 4,988enrollment
  • $24,485net price
  • 70%acceptance rate
  • -SAT range
  • 20-26ACT range
Your 3.5 GPA
Admission Chance69%

Lawrence University
L
Appleton, WI

Lawrence University

Private 4 Year

1 reviews

3.52 Average GPA

#1 Best Value in Wisconsin

  • 1,426enrollment
  • $26,368net price
  • 72%acceptance rate
  • 1210-1460SAT range
  • 27-32ACT range
Your 3.5 GPA
Admission Chance71%

Applications Due Jan 15

University of Wisconsin Parkside
W
Kenosha, WI

University of Wisconsin Parkside

Public 4 Year

0 reviews

3.31 Average GPA

#13 Best Public Universities in Wisconsin

  • 3,947enrollment
  • $8,510net price
  • 73%acceptance rate
  • -SAT range
  • 17-23ACT range
Your 3.5 GPA
Admission Chance81%

Viterbo University
V
La Crosse, WI

Viterbo University

Private 4 Year

0 reviews

3.5 Average GPA

#10 Best Private Colleges in Wisconsin

  • 2,456enrollment
  • $23,257net price
  • 72%acceptance rate
  • 1060-1240SAT range
  • 22-27ACT range
Your 3.5 GPA
Admission Chance72%

Ripon College
R
Ripon, WI

Ripon College

Private 4 Year

0 reviews

3.41 Average GPA

 

  • 766enrollment
  • $21,999net price
  • 81%acceptance rate
  • 940-1160SAT range
  • 20-27ACT range
Your 3.5 GPA
Admission Chance84%

Edgewood College
E
Madison, WI
 

Edgewood College

Private 4 Year

3 reviews

3.5 Average GPA

 

  • 1,876enrollment
  • $28,189net price
  • 99%acceptance rate
  • -SAT range
  • -ACT range
Your 3.5 GPA
Admission Chance99%

Applications Due Aug 1

University of Wisconsin River Falls
W
River Falls, WI

University of Wisconsin River Falls

Public 4 Year

1 reviews

3.44 Average GPA

#7 Best Public Universities in Wisconsin

  • 5,188enrollment
  • $13,427net price
  • 84%acceptance rate
  • -SAT range
  • 19-25ACT range
Your 3.5 GPA
Admission Chance86%

University of Wisconsin Superior
W
Superior, WI

University of Wisconsin Superior

Public 4 Year

0 reviews

3.32 Average GPA

#12 Best Public Universities in Wisconsin

  • 2,710enrollment
  • $12,908net price
  • 96%acceptance rate
  • -SAT range
  • 18-24ACT range
Your 3.5 GPA
Admission Chance97%

Applications Due Aug 1

Wisconsin Lutheran College
W
Milwaukee, WI

Wisconsin Lutheran College

Private 4 Year

1 reviews

3.54 Average GPA

#6 Best Private Colleges in Wisconsin

  • 1,086enrollment
  • $22,682net price
  • 94%acceptance rate
  • 1038-1243SAT range
  • 22-27ACT range
Your 3.5 GPA
Admission Chance93%

Saint Norbert College
S
De Pere, WI

Saint Norbert College

Private 4 Year

0 reviews

3.57 Average GPA

#5 Best Private Colleges in Wisconsin

  • 1,882enrollment
  • $26,983net price
  • 84%acceptance rate
  • 1010-1270SAT range
  • 21-27ACT range
Your 3.5 GPA
Admission Chance82%

Northland College
N
Ashland, WI

Northland College

Private 4 Year

1 reviews

3.3 Average GPA

 

  • 518enrollment
  • $23,252net price
  • 68%acceptance rate
  • 1121-1280SAT range
  • 19-25ACT range
Your 3.5 GPA
Admission Chance77%

Bellin College
B
Green Bay, WI
 

Bellin College

Private 4 Year

0 reviews

3.6 Average GPA

 

  • 748enrollment
  • $25,811net price
  • 93%acceptance rate
  • -SAT range
  • 21-24ACT range
Your 3.5 GPA
Admission Chance91%

Applications Due May 1

Maranatha Baptist Bible College
M
Watertown, WI
 

Maranatha Baptist Bible College

Private 4 Year

0 reviews

3.38 Estimated Average GPA

 

  • 965enrollment
  • $22,858net price
  • 75%acceptance rate
  • 990-1240SAT range
  • 19-26ACT range
Your 3.5 GPA
Admission Chance80%