KU GPA scale and grading policy
Quick answer: University of Kansas uses the standard 4.0 scale with +/−. KU uses school-reported GPA. Course rigor reviewed alongside.
| Metric | KU Standard |
|---|---|
| Typical admit GPA | 3.4 - 3.9 |
| Good standing minimum | 2.0 |
| Dean's List threshold | 3.5+ for Honor Roll |
| Scale type | Standard 4.0 scale with +/−. |
How Kansas recalculates GPA for admission
KU uses school-reported GPA. Course rigor reviewed alongside. The number you submit on your transcript and the number KU uses in its admission decision may differ. Use the calculator above to model both — switch the preset to match Kansas's policy.
Automatic admission threshold (Kansas residents)
3.25 GPA + ACT 21 (or SAT 1060)
Source: KU Office of Admissions
Maintaining a good KU GPA
- Auto-admit grid is published. KU publishes its formal admission grid combining GPA and test scores. Hit the threshold and the decision is automatic — no committee review. Above the auto-admit line, merit scholarships scale with the score combination.
- Honors Program needs 3.75 + essay. The University Honors Program requires 3.75+ unweighted, 1330+ SAT/30+ ACT, and an honors-specific application essay. Honors students get smaller seminars, research grants, and an honors thesis option.
- KU Crimson + Blue scholarship covers full tuition. Kansas residents with 3.5+ + 30+ ACT typically clear Crimson + Blue (full tuition for 8 semesters). The award stacks with other KU scholarships, often producing a positive aid award after federal Pell.
Admit-range and policy data verified against Kansas's official admissions page.