My GPA is 3.7, what are my college options?

Hey, I'm a junior and my GPA is currently at 3.7. Can anyone help me get an idea of what kind of colleges I should be aiming for? Any recommendations would be appreciated.

Your 3.7 GPA is a solid starting point in the college admission process, showing a track record of good academic performance. However, your potential matches can't be determined solely by your GPA. There are several factors to consider, such as your SAT or ACT score, coursework rigor, extracurriculars, and personal preferences (like location, size, and majors offered).

For example, let's say you've taken rigorous courses (like honors or AP classes) and did well. Doing so shows course rigor and academic dedication, which colleges appreciate. If you aren't taking these types of classes yet, consider scheduling a few for your senior year if your school offers them.

When it comes to test scores, if we assume that your SAT or ACT scores are just as competitive as your GPA, you have a wide range of possibilities. Schools such as University of Washington, Penn State, and University of Wisconsin, Madison could be within your reach, just to name a few.

Remember to look at your extracurricular activities, too. Universities are looking for students with clear interests and dedication, often referred to as a "spike". So, what you do outside of class can help distinguish your application.

And, of course, consider your personal preferences. If you have a specific program of study in mind, you'll want to look for schools strong in that area. College culture, location, size, and cost are all critical factors to think about in your search.

Once you narrow down your interests and strengths, you can start to research and consider schools that fit your profile and ambitions! No recommendation list will be perfect, but with comprehensive research and by looking at a variety of factors, you can begin building a college list that's a good fit for you.