<span>2.9 GPA Colleges: See Schools That Accept a 2.9 GPA</span>

2.9 GPA Colleges: See Schools That Accept a 2.9 GPA

GPA, or grade point average, is a numerical average of all final grades throughout your high school career. Here we will explore what a 2.9 GPA means, including its significance in college admissions and strategies for improving or maintaining this level of academic performance.

What is a 2.9 GPA?

A 2.9 GPA is a grade point average that falls between a B- and a C+ on the 4.0 grading scale commonly used in the United States. It represents a slightly below-average academic performance, indicating that the student has maintained mostly C+ grades, with some grades falling below or above that range.

Is a 2.9 GPA Good?

A report card consisting of nothing but Bs would equate to a 3.0 GPA. Because a 2.9 GPA is so close to that benchmark, it demonstrates frequent above-average academic performance. A 2.9 GPA also means that you can apply to a number of colleges and universities and can reasonably expect admission to a sampling of them. Remember as well that a 3.0 GPA is the national average for high school graduates and attaining that figure will make your application even more marketable.

What percentile is a 2.9 GPA? 

A 2.9 GPA is a percentile of 84, or a B average. 

How Does a 2.9 GPA Affect College Admissions?

A 2.9 GPA can have a mixed impact on college admissions, as it falls below the average GPA of many colleges and universities. In general, a GPA is just one of several factors that colleges consider when evaluating applicants, along with test scores, extracurricular activities, recommendations, and essays.

While a 2.9 GPA may not be a strong academic performance, it's important to note that each college or university may have its own specific admission requirements and criteria. Some schools may be more lenient with GPA requirements if the student demonstrates other strong qualifications or personal achievements, while others may have a strict cutoff for GPAs.

What Colleges Can I Get Into With a 2.9 GPA?

With a 2.9 GPA, your application will be considered by a good-sized sample of colleges, and we’ve assembled a list of them below. Within that search, you can certainly take a look at Tennessee State University, the University of Baltimore, and SUNY College at Brockport, all three of which accept students with an average of a 2.9 GPA.   

Here's some advice for students based on where you are now in your high school education. 

Freshmen and Sophomores

For freshmen and sophomores, a 2.9 is just a hair below that competitive benchmark and you have between 2-3 years to increase the competitiveness of your application. Concentrate on any classes where you feel your grades could be stronger and devote more study time to those courses. This is also a good time to go over your study techniques and really analyze what works best for you—try new tricks, like using different colored pens for rewriting notes or try using flash cards. With consistently good study habits, there’s enough time to increase your GPA closer to the 3.3-3.5 range, which brings you into a whole new classification of competitiveness.

Juniors

If you’re a junior, there’s still time to get over the 3.0 benchmark, as well. However, this is also the year to devote part of your study time towards preparing for standardized tests—the ACT or SAT. Because many colleges weigh GPA and standardized test performances relatively equally, don’t focus exclusively on one at the expense of the other. Because you’re a tenth shy of the benchmark, consult with teachers and academic advisors to determine what needs to be done to increase your GPA past the 3.0 threshold and keep it there. In the meantime, budget your study time between regular classes and entrance exam prep, and don’t forget to take a practice test or two.

Seniors

For seniors, a 2.9 GPA means that you’ll have a number of college options to choose from already. It is possible to raise your GPA to the 3.0 benchmark with a solid B+-to-A average during your first semester and this will make you even more marketable to colleges. To make your application as competitive as possible, identify schools with later application deadlines in February or March so that there’s enough time to increase your college options with a stellar performance in the first semester of senior year. 

Even if your GPA doesn’t rise, with a 2.9 GPA, an especially strong application could make the difference in gaining admission to a number of colleges and universities. Be sure to list all extracurricular activities as well as any honors you’ve received and dedicate enough time to your essay to make sure that the application is as competitive as it can be.

What Are Colleges Looking at Other Than a 2.9 High School GPA?

A high school GPA is just a single snapshot of your academic career. While it tells admission officers about your general performance in the last four years of classes, it isn’t the whole story. Colleges want to see your passions, how you spend your time outside of class, and what makes you tick! Include as many of the following in your application as possible: 

What scholarships can you get with a 2.9 GPA?

While you’ll find that a portion of scholarships require a 3.0 or higher GPA, you’ll also find many without any GPA requirements at all. Search for scholarships based on your interests, like extracurriculars, sports, or passions. Make a concerted effort to apply for as many scholarships as possible because even small amounts of money earned can offset the cost of tuition. 

View All Scholarships 

Explore Colleges for Every GPA with Appily

Ready to explore colleges that accept a GPA like yours? We have a comprehensive database to help you find and research schools. There, you can see essential data points like acceptance rateaverage financial aid awardaverage test scores, and application deadlines, including those for rolling admissionearly decision, and early action schools. 

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The University of Southern California is a high-research institution located in Los Angeles, California, where it’s been educating students since 1880. The university is comprised of two campuses, the main University Park and the Health Sciences...

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University of Southern California is among the top universities in the country, and keeps getting better. The professors at the university are all at the top of their fields, and the extensive alumni list proves that the connections that you make...

” – Thomas from Houston, TX

Originally founded by former slaves, Alabama State University is an HBCU situated in Montgomery and a member of the Thurgood Marshall College Fund. The ASU campus hosts eight colleges offering over 50 undergraduate and graduate degrees. The ASU...

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Alabama State University is a university moving in the right direction. This school has been through adversity with so many changes from the head personnel, but it seems its all coming together. This university is one to adore with the various...

” – Leslie from Fairfield, AL

One of the largest Historically Black Colleges and Universities in the nation, Texas Southern University is a 4-year public institution in Houston. TSU is home to 12 colleges and schools conferring undergraduate degrees in over 100 academic majors...

“…

Texas Southern University is a fine institution, despite all the negative trash people say about it. Taking courses in chemistry, biology, and math at this college really made me see the important role that the classes played not only in science, but...

” – Brittany from Houston, TX

Queens College, City University of New York is a 4-year liberal arts college in New York City and part of the CUNY system. Queens College hosts four academic divisions of Arts & Humanities, Mathematics, Social Sciences, and Education conferring...

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Queens definitely does not get the rep for being an amazing school because it is part of the CUNY system... but believe me, you will not be disappointed in the quality of education here. Being a second generation Queens College student, I've only...

” – Julie from Garden City, NY

The Berklee College of Music is a school of the musical and performing arts in Boston and one of the largest contemporary music colleges in the world. Berklee consists of the College of Music and the Boston Conservatory at Berklee conferring bachelor...

“…

about the music business

” – Lynne from Suisun City, CA

Originally founded as a night school for law and business students, the University of Baltimore is a public institution and part of the University System of Maryland. UB confers degrees in over 70 undergrad and graduate academic programs. In addition...

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UB Is focused on the individual

” – Gunnar from Baltimore, MD

Founded by a freedman, Alabama A&M University is a public Historically Black College and University situated in Huntsville and a member of the Thurgood Marshall College Fund. Alabama A&M is home to colleges of Business, Natural Sciences, Engineering...

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I would honestly say that I am learning a lot of new things at AAMU. I came here thinking that college was going to be extremely hard and that I would fail. But in reality I have had the best classes and very helpful teachers. This is my second...

” – Jalesia from Anniston, AL

Albany State University is an Historically Black College and University in southwest Georgia and part of the University System of Georgia. A member of the Thurgood Marshall College Fund, ASU is home to colleges of Arts & Sciences, Health Professions...

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ASU is a great place for learning. The teachers are very nice. Therefore they help you with your classes. If you are failing and do not understand. They will help you or even waver your grades to help you out. They have a lot of people to help you if...

” – Camille from Columbus, GA

Virginia State University is an Historically Black College and University in central Virginia and the nation’s first fully state-supported university for African Americans. The VSU campus hosts colleges of Business, Education, Agriculture, Humanities...

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The professors that I have come in contact with so far at VSU, have all be amazing. The knowledge held within the school grounds is overwelming. I feel as though a little bit every day rubs off and sticks to me. I have learned so much being on...

” – Jasmine from Springfield, NJ

Founded in 1890, Savannah State University is an Historically Black College and University in east Georgia and the state’s oldest public HBCU. A member of the Thurgood Marshall College Fund, Savannah State grants bachelor’s degrees in 30 academic...

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Savannah State makes tons of learning opportunities available to you, but you have to seek them out on your own. Going to class is not enough! The library has great hours, and there are a dozen tutors on campus. If you utilize these your grades will...

” – Simone from Beaverton, OR

Clayton State University is a 4-year public school in the Atlanta metro area and part of the University System of Georgia. Featuring a 214-acre park-like campus, Clayton State confers undergraduate degrees in over 60 academic majors and minors. In...

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The professors at Clayton State are so wonderful. They connect with the students on a personal level which encourages you to want to learn even more. They make sure you get your times worth in class and it's rare you will leave confused

” – Alexa from Stockbridge, GA

Founded in 1871, SUNY Buffalo State is a public school in Buffalo and the largest 4-year college in the State University of New York System. SUNY Buffalo State is home to schools of Arts & Humanities, Education, the Professions, and Sciences, and is...

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The professors I have had since beginning Fall 2008 have been extremely helpful. They are available before and after class if you would like to speak with them and also through email. No matter what your problem is, they do what they can to assist...

” – Jessica from Rochester, NY

Founded by a group of African American farmers in 1901, Grambling State University is a 4-year public school in north central Louisiana. This Historically Black College and University is listed on the Louisiana African-American heritage trail. Part...

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Grambling is a great school because you get to experienve the life of a black college and how diffeerent some things at grambling are compared to other schools. Grambling also gives you the chance to make out there in the work world with the...

” – Domonique McElroy from Little Rock, AR

Founded in 1935, Norfolk State University is a 4-year public school and Historically Black College and University in southeast Virginia. Norfolk State confers bachelor’s degrees in 31 academic majors and is the only school in the state to offer a...

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I am in the Nursing associate degree program right now. It is a tough program, but is defiantly worth it. You get action first semester when you have your clinical at Nursing Homes.

” – Celestine from Greensboro, NC

Indiana Tech, is a 4-year college located in Fort Wayne, IN, that was founded in 1930. Indiana Tech offers 58 career-focused degree programs through their seven academic divisions, as well as a Discovery Track for students who aren’t quite sure which...

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The professors get to know you and help you out a lot. Which you will most likely not find at a larger school.

” – Justin from Markleville, IN

Winston-Salem State University is an Historically Black College and University and a public constituent institution of the University of North Carolina. WSSU is the country’s only HBCU to  offer a Motorsports Management degree and its Department of...

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At Winston Salem State University I have learned a ton of new things, and also I have fun while learning and that's the best part! Some of the new things I have learned are the proper ways to write persuasive essays,how to act as an adult (being...

” – Brittany from Durham, NC

Founded in 1835, the College at Brockport is a 4-year public liberal arts college in western New York State. A member of the State University of New York system, Brockport confers undergrad degrees in over 45 academic majors and minors. In addition...

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So far, the academics at this school are not too challenging, but the professors do keep me on my toes. As part of the Honors Program I was given many opportunities and was able to adjust rather quickly into college life and academics.

” – Caitlin from Greenwich, NY

At Plymouth State, you will actively learn with faculty and students, not just within your major but from diverse disciplines and with partners such as businesses and organizations, getting real-world, resume-boosting experience. The Plymouth State...

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I've only completed my first semester, but I've learned so much. I took a class called Environmental Geography. I knew that the world had it's problems, but this course really opened my eyes to the real problems of the world. I also took a course...

” – Esia from Hudson, NH

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York College is a private, Christ-centered institution established on an urban, 50-acre campus in Nebraska. York offers 26 on-campus bachelor’s degree programs, as well as two online master’s degree programs in Education and Organizational Leadership...

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The classes are great here and all the teachers are so willing to help.

” – Megan from Grand Island, NE

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Lincoln University is a public land grant university in central Missouri that was founded by African American Civil War veterans as an institution for educating freedmen. Lincoln is home to five colleges conferring undergraduate degrees in 50 fields...

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All teachers are generally consistent with their teaching and availability to help you understand.

” – Chelsia from Kansas City, MO

Founded in 1887, Central State University is a 4-year public school in western Ohio and an Historically Black College and University. A member of the Thurgood Marshall College Fund, Central State hosts colleges of Education, Engineering, Business...

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Central State University is a great HBCU for African American Students. As the only HBCU in Ohio it provides students with with a rich learning experience. The professors go out their way to make sure students comprehend classroom material.

” – Armond

Metropolitan State University of Denver is a 4-year public urban university in the heart of downtown Denver. MSU Denver is home to colleges of Business; Aerospace and Engineering Science; Health and Human Services; Letters, Arts & Sciences; Education...

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All of the teachers that I have meet seem to be very professional and experts in their subject areas. The classes are taught by the professors and not by student aids. The class sizes are smaller, so that means more access to the teacher. I believe I...

” – Ashlynn from Morrison, CO

Founded in 1879, Curry College is a private institution based in Milton, Massachusetts. The school operates a main campus near a state park in Norfolk county and a satellite campus in Plymouth. All students must take a General Education curriculum...

“…

I transfered to Curry College last semester and loved that it was a small school and the professors were very helpful with anything you needed. Curry has a great campaus and very small class sizes which is very easy to learn from. Also since the...

” – Joseph from Canton, MA

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Founded in 2006, Georgia Gwinnett College is a 4-year public school in the greater Atlanta area and part of the University System of Georgia. Georgia Gwinnett confers undergrad degrees in 18 academic majors and 13 minors. In addition to classroom...

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About 97% of the faculty have PhD's in their field. What other college has that? Plus Student Interaction is one of the fields in which faculty is graded at the end of each year, making student-to-teacher relationships more lasting and helpful for...

” – Gabriel from Snellville, GA

St. Petersburg College is a public institution that operates multiple small campuses around Pinellas County, Florida. SPC is part of the Florida College System and is recognized as a state college. Popular majors include medical records technician...

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There certain classes that should not be taken online, like speech or one you need lots of instruction.

” – Tyler from Clearwater, FL

Founded in 1895, Fort Valley State University is a 4-year public public school in central Georgia and an Historically Black College and University. Part of the University System of Georgia, FVSU is home to colleges of Arts & Sciences, Agriculture...

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College is totally different than high school. You not only learn about academics but you also learn life lessons.

” – Ashley from College Park, GA

Life University is the biggest single-campus chiropractic college in the world. It is a private institution founded by a doctor of chiropractic that offers health and wellness-focused programs. Life University’s education is founded around Vitalism...

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During campus tour we were taken through three courses for a 15 minute sample to various courses that my program requires. The student/professor ratio seem conducive to an environment for learning.

” – Travis from Macon, GA

New England College (NEC) is an accredited, private, non-profit college founded in 1946 that offers on campus and online degrees for undergraduate, graduate and doctoral students. The main campus in Henniker, New Hampshire, features a quintessential...

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The people here at NEC are known for their competition on the court and on the books. Making it a great place for people with competitive edge in them

” – Orion - Jersey City, NJ

Langston University is a public institution and historically black college. LU operates a main campus in Langston, Oklahoma as well as University Centers in Oklahoma City and Tulsa. It is a land-grant institution best known for its E de la Garza...

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Classes are small which provides you with one on one time with your professors which is great, because being a full time college student sometimes you may be busy during tutoring hours. So if you can talk to your professor and get help in class, you...

” – Shyla from Tulsa, OK

Originally founded by the Convention of Free Will Baptists, the University of Mount Olive is a 4-year liberal arts university with a Christian-centered focus in eastern North Carolina. UMO offers over 50 different majors featuring small classes and...

“…

It is a very welcoming community. All of the professors, instructors, and various staff are always so nice and are always a big help. All of the students are friendly and it is so easy to make new friends.

” – Sarah from Burlington, NC

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With campus overlooking the Wabash River, Vincennes University is a 4-year public school in southwest Indiana. The first public college founded in the state, VU operates four campuses around Indiana and confers bachelor’s degrees in 18 academic...

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You will learn a lot here at Vincennes. The classes are small and very helpful. Have a bigger opportunity to talk to the teacher one on one.

” – Jelisa from Pendleton, IN

Founded in 1872, Lyon College is a 4-year liberal arts college in northern Arkansas and one of the oldest institutions of higher learning in the state. Lyon confers bachelor’s degrees in 15 academic disciplines. In addition, Lyon houses a Scottish...

“…

Lyon College provides a very aggressive academic program, their classes are invigorating, challenging, interesting and provide interaction with an amazing faculty. The homework helps to make the information in class concrete within the memory. And...

” – Karisala from O Fallon, IL

St. Francis College is a private institution located in Brooklyn Heights, New York, and was founded in 1884. It is a Franciscan college that provides a Christ-centered curriculum focused on the theology and philosophical teachings of St. Francis. It...

“…

everyday you learn new things that are beneficial plus you have very helpful people here to inform how to achieve your goal and the college experience is challenging but great.

” – Karimah from Brooklyn, NY

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Founded in 1894, Texas College is a historically black institution based in Tyler, TX. It is affiliated with the Christian Methodist Episcopal Church and a member of the United Negro College Fund. Noted programs include computer science, criminal...

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Texas College has shown me answers to many life questions. Students have the ability to contact their Professors 24/7. Its a population of a 1,000 which leads us to being a huge family.

” – Monique from Milwaukee, WI

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Schoolcraft College is a public 2-year community college in Livonia, Michigan. The school offers traditional courses for credit as well as Continuing Education and Professional Development classes. They use an open admissions policy and students can...

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All of the professors I have had are each different from the next. I have had new instructors and less experienced ones. A lot of my professors teach at another institution, have travelled a great deal, are from other countries or have worked in a...

” – Sarah from Livonia, MI

The University of Alaska Anchorage is a public institution in the city of Anchorage. The campus is surrounded by lakes, ponds, and mountains, but has a trail system that  connects the university to midtown Anchorage. Top fields of study include...

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The learning experience is amazing. The professors know what they are teaching and enjoy teaching it. Some of them are born and raised in Alaska so they can help you out. The other students are a big help as well.

” – Haley from Kodiak, AK

At Franklin Pierce University, you’ll find a tight-knit community of dreamers and doers who can help you achieve anything. You’ll receive a contemporary, far-reaching liberal arts education that’s financially accessible and be supported by a network...

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From my meeting with some of the professors and sitting in on some classes I feel that the teachers will push you to learn. This school may not be Harvard but that may mean that the teachers care a little more about how smart you are, not just how...

” – Kate from Hopedale, MA

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Century College is a public, two-year institution that focuses on both community and technical education. Century College’s 170-acre campus, which is located in White Bear Lake, Minnesota, maintains a variety of facilities, including LGBTQ and...

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i really want to go to this school, but I'm still researching it. i think its a great school and i will learn a lot from it.

” – Patience from New Brighton, MN

Established by the Religious Society of Friends in 1873, William Penn University is a liberal arts institution in central Iowa affiliated with the Quakers. William Penn is home to seven academic divisions conferring degrees in over 20 majors. As a...

Formed by the consolidation of Middle Georgia College and Macon State College, Middle Georgia State University is a 4-year institution with five central Georgia campuses. MGA is home to eight colleges conferring undergraduate and graduate degrees...

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I have learned so much already in my 2 semesters at Macon State. The teachers are very helpful and obviously love what they do. I can not stop talking about how awesome this school is!

” – Chloe from Macon, GA

Founded in 1882, Nyack College is a Christian college with campuses in New York City and upstate New York affiliated with the Christian and Missionary Alliance. Nyack is home to seven colleges and schools conferring undergraduate degrees in over 30...

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Nyack College is a great school that seeks to be a welcoming and diverse campus. Although it is a small community, Nyack College offers much opportunity for students to grow in terms of their Christian faith, leadership skills, and in expasion of...

” – TESOL major at Nyack College

Founded in 1815, Nichols College is a private nonprofit institution based in Dudley, Massachusetts. Nichols College offers a business-centered curriculum founded on a liberal arts education. It is a designated military-friendly school and provides...

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The teachers are always there for you and are only an email away when outside the classroom. It is impossible to fail because the teachers are always caring and they want you to succeed.

” – Joanna from Lawrence, MA

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Founded by the Congregation of Sisters of Saint Agnes, Marian University is a Catholic liberal arts college in northeast Wisconsin. Marian offers bachelor’s degrees in 38 fields of study and all majors feature on-the-job training and service learning...

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This college has many different possible majors and minors. It has classes based on liberal arts and those for specialized for majors. I am learning a LOT here. Not only through just the liberal arts courses but also the Nursing courses I am...

” – Tessa from Appleton, WI

Founded in 1896 as an educational institution for freedmen, Oakwood University is a Christian school in northern Alabama and an Historically Black College and University. Operated by the Seventh-day Adventist Church, Oakwood is home to schools of...

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The faculty at Oakwood is wonderful. The teachers don't only teach the information in the textbook, but they also teach from the Bible. This is great because, in the end, the only wisdom that will truly count is what we learn from the Bible and...

” – Kelcie from Madison, AL

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Columbia College is a liberal arts college in South Carolina’s state capital. Columbia confers undergraduate degrees in eight academic areas and also makes certain programs available in coeducational formats. Throughout the school year, Columbia...

“…

The course is rigorous, but the teachers really care and are so willing to help and they want you to succeed. The education is well-rounded so that it's practical for life and creates a nice learning experience with different methods and fun classes...

” – Suzie from Simpsonville, SC

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Established in 2002, Nevada State College is a public, 4-year institution located in the city of Henderson. The 511-acre, sustainable energy campus is home to over 50 major and minor programs in the fields of nursing, education, and the liberal arts...

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Teachers at Nevada State College work one-on-one with the students any time available. They help students understand the criteria and are wonderful to work with.

” – Stephanie from Las Vegas, NV

Originally founded as a school for immigrants in 1855, American International College is a 4-year liberal arts college in southern Massachusetts. AIC is home to three schools conferring bachelor’s degrees in over 40 academic majors. To help students...

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the school AIC is great. it is small which makes it easier to get around campus and for teachers to get to know you on a personal level. the area of Springfield that the school is placed in isn't very safe but the campus police make sure its safe on...

” – Sofia from Mass

Located in the hills of western New York, Alfred State College is a 4-year SUNY College of Technology institution offering more than 70 degrees. Alfred State maintains three colleges as well as an honors program and fully online degrees in areas such...

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If you put yourself out there there is a limitless amount of knowledge to learn in Alfred. its a small town so its quite but there is so much to do and learn. professors are Very helpful if you put yourself in the position to bother them for...

” – Elvis from Alfred, NY

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Jefferson State Community College is a 2-year community college in Birmingham serving a four-county area. With four campuses, JSCC confers associate degrees in over 120 academic fields of study and is home to 33 vocational programs. In addition to...

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This school has much to offer. The course work is respectable for the college level. The professors enjoy everything that they are doing and they are willing to help out if you have any problems.

” – William from Birmingham, AL

Webber International University is a private institution situated in Babson Park, FL, and has been labeled a "Best in the Southeast" and a "Best Value" college by The Princeton Review. Considered a business university, Webber has a focus on...

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Yes. You will learn a lot about getting ahead in the business world, running a business and even just gaining a job in this tough economy. I have taken may classes that helped prepare me for job interviews and how to handle myself in the workplace. I...

” – Dallas from Haines City, FL