Hey everyone! I'm planning to apply to Seattle U next year and was wondering what their average GPA requirement might be? Also, how much do they weigh a good GPA vs other factors in the application? Thanks!
Seattle University, like most other universities, does not have a firm "GPA requirement." However, to give you an idea of what they might expect, most admitted students usually have an unweighted, cumulative GPA between 3.4–3.88.
Seattle University does take a holistic approach to admissions, which means they consider many factors beyond just your GPA. These include your course rigor (such as AP, IB, or honors courses), SAT or ACT scores (though as of the 2024-2025 application cycle, they are a test-optional school), your personal statement, letters of recommendation, involvement in extracurricular activities, and any unique skills, talents, or experiences that could distinguish you from other applicants.
In terms of the relative weight they place on GPAs versus these other factors, while they do place a significant emphasis on academic performance, they also want to see that you'll contribute to their community outside the classroom. Being at or above a 3.88 doesn't guarantee admission, while being below a 3.4 doesn't automatically equal rejection.
If you want to know how your application as a whole stacks up at Seattle U, I'd check out CollegeVine's free chancing engine, which accounts for all quantifiable elements of your application, including not just GPA but also course rigor, test scores (if you have them), and extracurriculars to give you personalized odds of acceptance at Seattle U and hundreds of other colleges: https://www.collegevine.com/admissions-calculator
This tool will also give you suggestions on how to improve your chances, whether by raising your GPA slightly or some other step, like earning a leadership position in one of your extracurriculars.
Overall, for a compelling application, aim for strong grades while also demonstrating authentic involvement in your extracurricular activities. Your essays should also be well-crafted, and give the admissions officers deeper insight into your character, goals, and how you might contribute to the Seattle University community. Good luck!
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