Colleges In California With Low GPA Requirements

Last Updated on July 28, 2023

Grade Point Average (GPA) is one of the most important criteria considered by the admission staff to grant admission to prospective students. USA universities calculate GPA on a scale of 4 and most universities prefer a minimum grade of “B” or a GPA of 3 on a scale of 4 for admission to their graduate programs. But some universities have different GPA requirements for different programs.

Right here on Collegelearners, you can rest assured to obtain all the relevant information you need on top colleges and universities, list of graduate schools with low GPA requirements, colleges with no GPA requirements, universities that accept low GPA for masters in Canada, and so much more. Be sure to visit our catalog for more information on related topics.

What is the minimum GPA for a DI scholarship?

What’s a Low GPA for College?

First, we should clarify what we mean by a low GPA. The definition of a low GPA depends heavily on your personal goals and target colleges, but a general rule of thumb is that any GPA below a 3.0 puts you in the lower range for most colleges in the country.

It’s true that a 3.0 is the average GPA in the country, but remember that many high school students also don’t go to college. Thus, the ones who do go to college usually end up having higher GPAs. As you’ll see below, the average GPA of lower-tier colleges is in the 2.9-3.3 range.

GPA can also be complicated because of unweighted and weighted GPAs, and how colleges consider the difficulty of your coursework. Even if you have a low GPA, you can compensate for it if you took a difficult course load, as colleges will reward you for your academic ambition.


School
Average GPA
CCalifornia State University Dominguez HillsCarson, CA3.0 
SSan Diego Christian College El Cajon, CA3.07*
LLife Pacific College San Dimas, CA3.07*
SSan Francisco Art Institute San Francisco, CA3.09 
CCalifornia State University East Bay Hayward, CA3.1 
SSouthern California Institute of Architecture Los Angeles, CA3.1 
WWoodbury University Burbank, CA3.11 
VVanguard University of Southern California Costa Mesa, CA3.13 
OOtis College of Art and Design Los Angeles, CA3.15 
CCalifornia State University San Bernardino San Bernardino, CA3.17 
CCalifornia State University Los Angeles Los Angeles, CA3.18 
CCalifornia State University Northridge Northridge, CA3.18 
CCalifornia State University San Marcos San Marcos, CA3.18 
CCalifornia College of the Arts Oakland, CA3.2 
CCalifornia State University Bakersfield Bakersfield, CA3.2 
HHoly Names University Oakland, CA3.2 
MMenlo College Atherton, CA3.2 
NNotre Dame de Namur University Belmont, CA3.2 
SSan Francisco State University San Francisco, CA3.2 
SSonoma State University Rohnert Park, CA3.2 

Top 10 Low GPA Colleges that Accepts 2.0 – 2.9 GPA

Presently, different low GPA colleges have made use of several tools to get the right students, and one of the ways is through GPA. Some students have performed below average by obtaining a low GPA, and this made them feel discouraged. Some colleges still accept students with low GPA scores. Students who are aware of these schools are assured they will be given admission to study their dream course.

Some of these colleges that are accepting students with low GPA colleges have strict GPA requirements they use in selecting students. Therefore, if you have been finding it hard to know the diverse colleges that will admit you to study your dream course, there are other distinct qualities apart from your low GPA, and the admission officers of the college might still consider you. Let’s get to see different low GPA colleges.

Top 10 Low GPA Colleges

1. Purdue University Global

This is one of the low GPA colleges that is found in the United States of America, and it is among the Purdue University system. It was purchased by Kaplan University in the year 2017, and its main focus is to offer quality online education to adults. There are also online master’s programs for those who want to enroll. Any student who wants to enroll in the school must have at least a minimum of 2.2, and they have different Master’s degree courses available for students.

2. Capella University

They have competent online learning that is available in two different modes such as GuidedPath & FlexPath. The programs are affordable for any student from different parts of the continents. In addition to this, there are online degrees that are also available such as health administration, public service, nursing, psychology, and many others. The admission requirements are a bachelor’s degree from a reputable college, a valid ID card, a current application form, and their GPA score is 2.1.

3. Western Governor’s University

This college offers quality education to their various students and one-on-one support teaching in different faculties. Students must have a bachelor’s degree before they will get admission into the college. It is ideal for the student to go for a course that’s related to their course of study. The school transcript is important for the student to present to the school admission officers, and in some cases, specific programs must have extra requirements.

4. Liberty University

The school is known to provide standard education that will enable students to grow their Christian life. The main thing about its education is being centered on core values, skills, and knowledge that will make a long-lasting impression on students’ profession. Most of the students who enroll in this college require a minimum of 2.0 GPA. In some cases, some degrees require students to have at least a 3.0 GPA to gain admission.

5. Grand Canyon University

The minimum requirement to gain admission in this college is 2.8, and it is Arizona University that impacts innovative education to students. For any undergraduate studies, the student must meet the minimum GPA. When once you meet the criteria, you will be given admission. Some courses differ in terms of GPA. For instance, a Ph.D. in General Psychology requires 3.4 before they can be given admission into the Grand Canyon University.

6. Colorado State University

This is a global institution that offers well-detailed education to students in different courses. The kind of education offered in this institution is top-notch to enable students to bring out their hidden potentials. The curriculum of the school has been structured in a way to fit in with the recent standard available in the market and other industries. They offer over 12 master’s programs, and these programs have various concentrations to ensure they fit the new curriculum.

7. Strayer University

Strayer University has been recognized to have a rich history of approximately 125 years in providing quality education. It has been made in a system to allow students to save up to 25% of their money. This is being possible using the Strayer Graduation Fund (SGF). They have numerous courses students can enrol if only they have the minimum GPA, and the following course is Information technology, Human relations, Cybersecurity, and many others. It is essential to have your transcripts, Valid ID, completed forms, or application.

8. Concordia University

Concordia University can be found in Ann Arbor, Michigan, and it is being regarded as a small college that comprises both undergraduate and postgraduate courses. The institution is being connected with the Lutheran Church. The highest number of students that have applied in the institution for a particular year is 2,094, but it was only 1,023 that were given admission to become bonafide students. Out of those students, it was only 962 students enrolled as part-time students.

9.  Webber University

The minimum GPA for this university is 2.2, and it is situated in Florida. Webber University offers both undergraduate and postgraduate courses. In a particular year, 1,022 students applied for admission, and at the end of everything, only 410 students gained admission into the college. From the number of 187 students that enrolled in the college, 656 students enrolled as a full-time student, while 38 students became a part-time student. It is one of the low GPA colleges you can attend to pursue your dream course.

10. Catawba College

The college is situated in Salisbury, North Carolina, and it is a small college that possesses various courses to enable students to possess quality studies. They have courses available for both undergraduate and postgraduate students. The highest number of students that have enrolled in the school is 3,061 students. 1,229 students became full-time, then, 65 students were part-time students. The college has been ranked as the 620 colleges in the world, and the minimum GPA score is 2.2.

2.0 GPA Colleges: Browse Schools That Accept a 2.0 GPA | Cappex

Colleges With No GPA Requirements

  1. Full Sail University Winter Park, Florida – Minimum GPA for acceptance to the graduate program is 2 on a 4 point scale. This is one of the Universities that accept low GPA for graduate programs.
  2. Green River College Auburn, Washington – Minimum GPA for acceptance to the graduate program is 2 on a 4 point scale. This is one of the US Colleges with low GPA requirements for international students.
  3. Rocky Mountain College of Art & Design Lakewood, Colorado – Minimum GPA for acceptance to the graduate program is 2 on a 4 point scale. This is one of the colleges with low GPA requirements.
  4. Santa Ana College Santa Ana, California – Minimum GPA for acceptance to the graduate program is 2 on a 4 point scale. This is one of the Universities that accept low GPA.
  5. California State University Los Angeles, California – Minimum GPA for acceptance to the graduate program is 2.5 on a 4 point scale. This is one of the graduate schools with low GPA requirements.
  6. Webster University Webster, Missouri – Minimum GPA for acceptance to the graduate program is 2.5 on a 4 point scale.
  7. Mississippi College Clinton, Mississippi – With a minimum GPA requirement of 2.5 on a 4 point scale, this University is certainly one of the US Colleges with low GPA requirements.
  8. San Jose State University San Jose, California – This is one of the best colleges that accept low GPA students. Minimum GPA for acceptance to the graduate program is 2.5 on a 4 point scale
  9. Notre Dame De Namur University Belmont, California – Minimum GPA for acceptance to the graduate program is 2.5 on a 4 point scale
  10. California State University Bakersfield, California – Minimum GPA for acceptance to the graduate program is 2.5 on a 4 po
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List of Graduate Schools with Low GPA Requirements

Schools that have no minimum GPA requirements are different from colleges that offer automatic acceptance for all applicants. Instead, many of the schools listed below have other admissions requirements that applicants must meet, which are listed when applicable, while some really have no GPA requirements.

In addition, some schools offer a wide variety of online bachelors degrees, some of which may have no GPA requirements, while other programs do. Whenever this is the case, those different programs have been listed. However, keep in mind that schools may change their admissions requirements, so you should check the school’s website before applying.

1. Western Governor’s University

Western Governor’s University offers over 50 online degree programs, ranging from teaching degrees to business to information technology. These online programs are designed to reward hard-working students through competency-based learning.

There are four different colleges at WGU, some of which have GPA requirements and some that don’t. The two colleges with no GPA requirements, and some of the majors related to those programs, are:

I. College of Business

  • Business Management
  • Health Information Management
  • Accounting

II. College of IT

  • Cybersecurity and Information Assurance
  • Data Management/ Data Analytics
  • Software Development

General Admissions Requirements

  • Interview
  • Prior work and college experience
  • Results of WGU’s Collegiate Readiness Assessment

The Teacher’s College and the College of Health Professions at Western Governor’s University have some degrees that require a 2.5 GPA in addition to the general admissions requirements.

2. Grand Canyon University

For over 65 years, Grand Canyon University has been committed to providing their students with the support they need to get ahead. With over 200 online and on-campus programs spread among seven colleges, GCU strives to develop leaders who are empathetic and global citizens.

Incoming freshmen have to meet either the minimum GPA or meet minimum test requirements to achieve full acceptance. For example, in order to avoid the minimum GPA requirements, high school students can earn either of the following:

  • 19 on the ACT
  • 1000 on the SAT (test date after 3/1/2016) on a 1600 scale

3. St. Leo University

St. Leo University is devoted to creating and contributing to a more socially just society, with values rooted in the Catholic faith. However, as a liberal arts school, it serves learners of all faiths.

Course Proposals | Communication | SUNY Buffalo State College

While there are no minimum GPA requirements for incoming freshmen, there are other admissions requirements, such as:

  • Application
  • Official High School Transcript
  • Letter of Recommendation
  • Recommended Successful Completion of Certain Courses

4. Purdue Global University (formerly Kaplan University)

With 75 years of experience, Purdue Global is one of the nation’s best online bachelors degree programs, as ranked by U.S. News and World Report. Plus, in national surveys, Kaplan’s learners showed higher levels of satisfaction than other institutions.

While there are no GPA requirements, there are other admissions requirements, which include:

  • Completing an informational interview
  • Touring campus and/ or online learning environment
  • Being able to fluently speak, read, and write English
  • Completing financial arrangements before starting class

Some programs, such as nursing programs, may have additional requirements, such as documentation of health exams and background checks. Other programs may have other requirements.

Even though there are no minimum GPA requirements, the school still asks you to submit all official transcripts in order to prove that you have met requirements, such as a high school or GED equivalent for bachelors degree programs.

5. American Intercontinental University

American Intercontinental University (AIU) offers students a personalized education with customized course content so that you can read, watch, or listen based on how you learn best. Plus, AIU offers a more specialized curriculum, with more courses in your area of interest than at similar schools.

While there are no GPA requirements for undergraduate degree programs at AIU, you do need to show proficiency in English and math. AIU may provide you with an assessment for one, or both of the skills, which helps determine proper academic placement and whether you’ll need additional support services.

6. Colorado Technical University

Colorado Technical University wants to connect you to what matters most–a career after earning your degree. That’s why they offer a powerful professional network, faculty with real-world experience, and accessible, innovative technology.

For undergraduate admissions, CTU requires no minimum GPA. However, it is your responsibility to prove your high school graduation or equivalency diploma by sending one of the following:

  • High school transcript or diploma
  • GED transcript or certificate
  • Other written verification that demonstrates high school graduation or equivalency

7. Ashford University

At Ashford University, they strive to provide accessible, affordable, innovative, high-quality learning opportunities and degree programs that meet the diverse needs of individuals pursuing integrity in their lives, professions, and communities.

Ashford has different sets of requirements that students must meet for full acceptance, none of which include a minimum GPA. These sets of requirements include:

Conditional

  • High school diploma or equivalent
  • Transcripts
  • Computer and internet access
  • Be 22 years old or meet special requirements, such as a certain number of college credits

Provisional

  • Successfully complete Student Success Orientation
  • Achieve C- or better by day 6 of week 3
  • Attend week 4 of first course

Full

(Must be met prior to the conclusion of the 4th attempted Ashford University course)

  • Official TEOFL or IELTS scores if required for admission
  • If you were admitted from an accredited two-year school, you must supply all official transcripts of earned credits

8. Regis University

Established in 1877, Regis University strives to provide students with a value-centered education and encourages students to become leaders that make a positive impact in today’s changing society. Plus, Regis University has been ranked by U.S. News and World Report as a Top University in the West for 18 consecutive years.

For incoming students, there are no GPA requirements. However, incoming freshman are judged based on their:

  • High school record
  • ACT or SAT scores
  • Personal essay
  • Counselor or teacher recommendation

9. Utica College

Utica College, founded in 1946, offers 38 undergraduate majors, 31 minors, and a number of other programs. As a small, independent, private institution, Utica provides students with a high degree of personalized attention to help them succeed.

While there are no minimum GPA requirements at Utica, you are still required either to send your official transcripts showing your high school graduation date or to prove that you have earned a GED or equivalent diploma.

There are also a number of course requirements while earning your high school diploma, which are similar to standard high school requirements. These may include English, math, and science courses.

10. Saint Mary’s University of Minnesota

With a long history of providing innovation in learning, ethics, and advancing the common good, Saint Mary’s University of Minnesota offers students a variety of online programs to provide the flexibility and freedom modern students are looking for.

When applying to St. Mary’s, there are no GPA requirements. There are, however, additional documents that you should send with your application, such as your:

  • ACT or SAT scores (no minimum)
  • Official transcripts
  • 250 word essay
  • Letters of recommendation (optional)

11. Grantham University

Grantham University wants you to be excited about your online learning experience, and offers comprehensive support, simplified enrollment, and affordable tuition. In 2015, Grantham had more than 11,000 students, 93.3% of which would recommend GU to their friends.

When applying to Grantham, the general admissions requirements include no minimum GPA. In addition, GU accepts transfer students with no minimum GPA as well. However, at least 25% of the required credit hours in the undergraduate program must be completed at Grantham.

There are some degrees at GU that do have minimum GPA requirements. These include:

Nursing Degree

  • 2.5 GPA or higher

Financial Planning Degree

No minimum GPA unless you can’t meet other requirements, such as:

  • ACT composite score of 19 or higher
  • SAT score of 450 or higher
  • AFQT score of 40 or higher

Many associates and bachelors degree programs in the school of arts and sciences, such as business administration and information technology, among many others, have no minimum GPA requirements.

However, there are a number of degrees offered in the College of Health Sciences at Argosy University that have a minimum GPA requirement of 2.0 because of the competitive nature of the degrees. Other degrees, such as radiation therapy or medical assisting, offer one track that has a minimum GPA requirement and another track for admissions that has other requirements.

What Is a Good College GPA? - FreeEducator.com

Find the Perfect Program for You – Colleges That Don’t Require GPA Minimums

When applying to colleges, one of the most important aspects to consider is the GPA requirements listed by each school. There are many schools that have strict admissions requirements that some students simply cannot meet. However, there are a number of colleges with No GPA Requirements for incoming students.

By finding and applying to schools that match your current academic standing, you may help improve your chances of getting into the perfect college for you.

This can be especially helpful for students who may not have achieved a high enough GPA while earning a high school or GED equivalent diploma, or for adult learners returning to school for the first time in years.

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