Is a 3.6 GPA Good?

A 3.6 GPA is a "Very Good" score that puts you in the top tier of students. It opens doors to competitive colleges, scholarships, and honors programs.

The Short Answer

It is Very Good.

A 3.6 GPA means you are an excellent student. You consistently earn B+ and A- grades. You are likely in the top 25% of your class. This score qualifies you for almost all state universities and many private colleges.

Letter: B+
Percentile: ~75th
National Distribution
0.03.6 (You)4.0

Is a 3.6 Good for Your Grade Level?

Middle School

Excellent

Verdict: Yes.
A 3.6 shows high aptitude. You are likely finding your classes easy. You are perfectly positioned for Honors/AP tracks in high school. Keep building good study habits.

HS Freshman

Great Start

Verdict: Very Good.
A 3.6 freshman GPA is fantastic. You are establishing yourself as a top student. If you take weighted classes later, your GPA will easily cross the 4.0 mark, making you a very strong applicant.

College Student

Dean's List

Verdict: Excellent.
A 3.6 is likely Cum Laude (Honors) territory. You are excelling in a rigorous environment. You are a top candidate for jobs, research positions, and elite graduate schools.

Can I get into a top college with a 3.6?

Yes. A 3.6 GPA makes you a competitive candidate for "Public Ivies" and selective private colleges. While the ultra-elite (Ivy League) are still reaches, you have a strong chance at top 50 universities.

Admissions Strategy

Your GPA is strong. Focus on high-quality extracurriculars (leadership positions) to distinguish yourself from other 3.6 applicants.

Colleges that Accept 3.6 GPA

Safety Schools (Likely Admit)
Michigan State
University of Iowa
U. of Alabama
Target Schools (Match)
Penn State
Texas A&M
University of Delaware
Reach Schools (Harder)
UT Austin
U. of Florida
UC Santa Barbara

3.6 GPA Conversion

GPALetterPercentile
4.0A99-100%
3.7A-90-92%
3.6B+89%
3.3B+87%
3.0B83%
Percentage
91%

A 3.6 GPA typically equates to a percentage of 90-91% in most US schools.

Want to raise your 3.6 to a 3.8?

You are already performing at a high level. Just a few more A's in your remaining classes could push you into the Magna Cum Laude range.

3.6 GPA Frequently Asked Questions

Common questions from high school and college students about a 3.6 GPA.