10 U.S. Universities That Accept Low GPA: Study in America With 2.0 – 2.5 GPA

For many students, especially international ones, the thought of studying in the United States feels like a distant dream — not because of finances or visas, but because of GPA. I.e. low GPA. If you’ve been stressing over a less-than-stellar academic record, I’ve got good news: you can still study in the U.S. with a GPA as low as 2.0. Yes, really.

In this blog post, I’m sharing a list of 10 U.S. universities that understand students are more than just a number. They take a holistic approach to admissions and accept students with low GPA. (GPAs ranging from 2.0 to 2.5.)

Whether you’re an international applicant or applying from within the U.S., this guide is for you.

1. California State University, Northridge (CSUN)

Minimum GPA: 2.5
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CSUN offers a wide variety of master’s, doctoral, and graduate certificate programs. The admissions office considers applicants with a minimum cumulative GPA of 2.5, either overall or in the last 60 semester units. Popular programs include Business Analytics, Biochemistry, Education, and Electrical Engineering.

2. Fort Hays State University (FHSU)

Minimum GPA: 2.5
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Located in Kansas, FHSU is a flexible and affordable public university. Graduate applicants need at least a 2.5 GPA, either cumulative or in their final 60 hours of undergraduate coursework. Programs range from Organizational Leadership to Health Care Management and Criminal Justice.

3. Liberty University

Minimum GPA: 2.0
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This private Christian university in Virginia is surprisingly GPA-friendly. Some graduate programs accept students with a GPA as low as 2.0, including degrees in Biblical Studies, Global Studies, and Public Relations. Liberty also offers online options for added flexibility.

4. California State University, Long Beach (CSULB)

Minimum GPA: 2.5
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Known for its scenic campus and strong academics, CSULB allows graduate students to apply with a 2.5 GPA in their last 60 semester or 90 quarter units. From Statistics to Educational Psychology, their programs are diverse and well-respected.

5. California State University, Channel Islands (CSUCI)

Minimum GPA: 2.5
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Nestled near the California coast, CSUCI is one of the newer CSU campuses but already has a strong reputation. The minimum GPA for graduate studies is 2.5, and programs include Biotechnology, Computer Science, and School Counseling.

6. California State University, Fresno (Fresno State)

Minimum GPA: 2.5
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If you’re looking for hands-on research opportunities and community engagement, Fresno State is a great pick. They accept a 2.5 GPA (in the last 60 semester units) and offer programs like Creative Writing, Social Work, Agricultural Science, and Nursing.

7. DePaul University

Minimum GPA: 2.5
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Based in Chicago, DePaul is a private university with a modern approach to admissions. Colleges like Education, Communication, Science and Health, and Continuing and Professional Studies accept students with a GPA of 2.5 or above. It’s ideal for urban-minded students seeking flexible programs.

8. California State University, San Bernardino (CSUSB)

Minimum GPA: 2.5
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CSUSB is known for serving first-generation and diverse student populations. Graduate programs require a minimum GPA of 2.5, especially in the last 60 semester units. Courses range from Social Work to Art, Engineering, and Psychology.

9. California State University, East Bay (CSUEB)

Minimum GPA: 2.5
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Located in the San Francisco Bay Area, CSUEB is a forward-thinking school with flexible evening and hybrid programs. They accept graduate applicants with a 2.5 GPA, and programs include Healthcare Administration, Construction Management, and Special Education.

10. Southern New Hampshire University (SNHU)

Minimum GPA: 2.0
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SNHU is one of the most accessible universities in the U.S., with many online master’s programs and a GPA requirement starting at 2.0. Students with GPAs between 2.0 and 2.74 may be considered for provisional admission. Programs include STEM MBA, Project Management, and Early Childhood Education.

🌟 Final Thoughts

If your GPA is on the lower side, don’t give up on your dreams. These universities prove that a less-than-perfect academic record doesn’t define your future. Admissions teams now focus on more than just grades — they consider personal statements, recommendation letters, work experience, and your overall potential.

👉 Tip: Even if your GPA is below the stated minimum, many schools will consider you for provisional admission, or give you the chance to prove yourself through foundation programs or strong test scores.

So go ahead — choose a university, polish that statement of purpose, and take that leap. Your future in the U.S. is still very much within reach.