GPA ranges and what they mean
A 4.0 is a straight-A average. A 3.7–3.9 is excellent. A 3.0–3.5 (roughly a B to B+ average) is solid and meets most college and scholarship minimums. A 2.0–2.9 is a C average, which keeps you in good academic standing at most schools but limits competitive options.
For college admissions
The average GPA of admitted students at highly selective universities is often above 3.9 (weighted). Strong state universities typically look for 3.5+, while many good schools admit students in the 3.0–3.5 range, especially with strong test scores or essays.
Context matters
A 3.5 earned in mostly AP and honors classes is more impressive than a 3.9 in all standard classes. Course rigor, upward grade trends, and your intended major all factor into how a GPA is read.