How Does a GPA of 87 Look for College Admissions?

I've been putting in a lot of effort, and right now, I've got a GPA of 87. Is this score competitive for getting into college? I understand each university has its own standards, but what are my options in general with a 87 GPA?

When discussing GPA, it's important to convert your percentage-based GPA to the 4.0 scale that most U.S. colleges use. An 87% average or a GPA of approximately a 3.3 on a 4.0 scale is considered "B+" average. Different colleges have distinct acceptance rates and GPA requirements, so a large part of your potential range of colleges will come down to other factors in your application, such as your SAT/ACT scores, extracurricular involvement, class rigor, and essays.

For example, some state schools and lesser-known private institutions will consider a 3.3 GPA competitive. These schools often balance GPA with other parts of the application and are less selective overall, making them more accessible for B average students.

However, the most prestigious universities often have higher average GPAs among admitted students. For example, an Ivy League university might expect a GPA of around 3.9-4.0. If your dream is to attend a highly selective university, it will be important to bolster your application with other impressive elements, such as strong test scores (unless the school is test-optional), excellent recommendation letters, a stand-out essay, or Tier 1 or Tier 2 extracurriculars.

Remember, every piece of an application is important and there is not one single deciding factor. A student with a lower GPA who shines in other areas might still be admitted over a student with a perfect GPA but no extracurricular achievements. It's all about presenting a well-rounded application.

Also, your GPA trajectory plays a significant role in admissions decisions. If your grades got off to a rocky start in ninth grade but have been improving ever since, colleges take this into account. Admissions officers are often keen on seeing improvement and academic growth.

Lastly, if there are any special circumstances that have affected your GPA, such as illness, family issues, or other personal challenges, it may be beneficial to explain them in your application, as admissions officers can take these situations into consideration as well.