If you’ve obtained a second class lower degree, you may be wondering if you can still pursue a master’s degree in the United States. The good news is that many universities in the USA accept second class lower degrees for master’s degree programs. However, it’s important to note that acceptance criteria can vary from program to program, and some universities may have stricter admission requirements.
In this blog post, we’ll provide you with a comprehensive list of universities in the USA that accept second class lower degrees for master’s programs. We’ll also give you some tips on how to improve your chances of being accepted into these programs.
But first, let’s define what a second class lower degree is. In the UK education system, a second class lower degree is equivalent to a 2:2 degree classification. This means that you earned an overall grade between 50-59% in your undergraduate degree.
Now, let’s explore the list of universities in the USA that accept second class lower degrees for master’s programs.
Also Read- Most Common Mistakes to Avoid When Applying for Scholarships
List of Universities that Accept 2.0 GPA for Masters in the USA
- University of Maryland Eastern Shore
- Oakwood University
- Stillman College
- Talladega College
- University of Advancing Technology
- University of Alaska Southeast
- University of Arkansas at Monticello
- Arkansas Baptist College
- University of Arkansas at Monticello
- University of Arkansas at Pine Bluff
- Lincoln University
- Northwestern Polytechnic University
- Metropolitan State University of Denver
- Post University
- Beacon College
- Bethune-Cookman University
- Carlos Albizu University – Miami
- Edward Waters College
- Florida Memorial University
- Webber International University
- Albany State University
- Fort Valley State University
- Life University
- Luther Rice University
- Savannah State University
- East-West University
- Governors State University
- National Louis University
- Northeastern Illinois University
- University of Dubuque
- William Penn University
- Kentucky State University
- Dillard University
- Grambling State University
- Southern University at New Orleans
- Bowie State University
- Coppin State University
- University of Baltimore
- University of Maryland Eastern Shore
- Finlandia University
- Mississippi Valley State University
- Harris-Stowe State University
- Lincoln University
- Montana State University—Northern
- Shaw University
- Central State University
- Langston University
- Cheyney University of Pennsylvania
- Bayamon Central University
- Caribbean University
Also Read- How to Keep Your Scholarship: Tips for Maintaining Eligibility
USA GPA Categorization
| US Degree Classification | Grade/Percentage | GPA |
| First-Class Honours (First or 1st) – Very Good GPA | Grade A or 90% or above | 3.7-4.0 |
| Upper Second-Class Honours (2:1) – Good GPA | Grade B or 80-89% | 2.7-3.6 |
| Lower Second-Class Honours (2:2) – Low GPA | Grade C or 70-79% | 1.7-2.6 |
| Third-Class Honours (Third or 3rd) – Very Low GPA | Grade D or 60-69% | 1.0-1.6 |
Also Read- How to Write a Winning Scholarship Essay
FAQs
1. What’s the lowest GPA Harvard accepted?
Answer- Harvard requires a 4.18 to get in. However, they may accept some with a 4.0 as well.
2. Can a good GRE score make up for a low GPA?
Answer- If you get a good GRE score, it can offset your low GPA.
3. How do you explain F on a transcript?
Answer- Your transcripts must show that you retook the exam and received a better grade.
4. How to make up for a low GPA?
Answer- Here are some steps that you can follow-
Step 1: Stop making excuses: Instead, give them a context for your low GPA. Being honest about your low GPA is the best thing an applicant can do. Blaming the teachers and your school will surely put you at a disadvantage scenario.
Step 2: Preparation: Once the GPA is done and dusted, it’s time to give your best on SAT/ACT. Most colleges in the United States use scores from these tests as basic admission criteria. Sure many colleges won’t overlook your low GPA, but now you have a higher chance to compete for the seat.
Step 3: Write Stellar Essays: One can offset a low GPA with a strong essay. This is the best way to showcase your personality and writing capabilities to prove that you would be the right candidate.
Step 4: A strong LOR/SOP: Most colleges would ask for 2-3 teacher recommendations. Your teachers can write about your qualities that a GPA score cannot reflect. LOR can strengthen your point and improve your overall application. An SOP can showcase your skills, passion, potential, and interest in the program that you want to pursue.
