Hi all, I’ve heard BYU is pretty selective. What’s the typical GPA they expect for admission? And if my GPA isn’t exactly stellar, are there other areas where they may be more flexible that I could potentially focus on improving?
BYU is indeed fairly selective. The average GPA for admitted students is typically around 3.9. Of course, this number is an average, so there are students who get in with a lower GPA, and some with a higher GPA.
If your GPA is lower than the average, it's still possible for you to get accepted. One area that comes to mind to improve upon is your ACT/SAT score. BYU isn't test-blind; they do consider standardized test scores as part of their admissions process. As of the 2024-2025 application cycle, BYU does not require but does consider SAT or ACT scores in its admission process. High scores could potentially offset a lower GPA.
Also, BYU values the applicant's extracurricular activities. They're likely to look favorably on applicants who have shown leadership and involvement in extracurricular activities, such as clubs, sports, or community service. Remember, quality is often more important than quantity - participating in a few activities and demonstrating significant contribution or leadership is recommended.
Furthermore, BYU is a religious institution rooted in the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, so showing commitment to the church, its values, and contributing within the community can impact your chances of admission.
Lastly, having solid letters of recommendation from teachers or mentors who know you well can be impactful and help present a fuller picture of you as a student and a person.
So if GPA is an area of concern for you, focusing on these other aspects of your application could help balance things out. In any event, ensure the other elements of your application are as strong as they can be.
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