Best Online Colleges that Accept Low GPA for 2025

by Imed Bouchrika, Phd

Co-Founder and Chief Data Scientist

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What can I expect from attending an online college that accepts low GPA?

You can expect a legitimate college experience with a more understanding admissions process. These schools focus on your potential, not just your past academic record. Once you're in, the structure is very similar to any other online program. You'll use a digital learning platform to access course materials, submit your work, and communicate with professors.

The curriculum will be just as rigorous as at any other accredited institution. The key difference is that these colleges provide a pathway for students who are ready to prove they can succeed now.

Where can I work with a degree from an online college that accepts low GPA?

You can work in the same professional jobs as graduates from any traditional university. Employers care about whether your degree is from an accredited institution, not what that school's admission requirements were. Accreditation is the standard that validates the quality of your education.

So, whether you pursue a career in business, technology, healthcare, or another field, your degree will be seen as a credible qualification. The door is open to the same opportunities.

How much can I make with a degree from an online college that accepts low GPA?

Your salary potential is tied to the degree you earn, not the admissions policy of your school. With a bachelor's degree, you can position yourself to earn a median annual wage of $92,260. That's the industry benchmark for professionals with that credential.

Earning your degree from an accredited online college puts you on the same playing field. It's the qualification that matters to employers and the key that unlocks your long-term earning power.

Popular College Degrees Worth Considering in 2025

1. Business Administration

Many online colleges that accept low GPA offer business administration programs, making it a practical choice for students seeking flexibility. This degree prepares you for careers in management, marketing, or finance, and remains one of the most in-demand fields.

2. Psychology

Psychology is widely available at transfer-friendly and low GPA–accepting colleges online. It provides a strong foundation in understanding behavior and can lead to careers in mental health, research, or graduate study.

3. Counseling

For students drawn to helping professions, many online colleges with flexible admissions offer counseling pathways. These programs prepare you for roles in schools, clinical settings, and community organizations.

4. Nursing

Nursing is one of the most popular fields at colleges that support low GPA admissions, especially for RNs seeking to advance. Online options allow you to keep working while preparing for higher-paying, in-demand roles.

5. Social Work

Social work degrees are accessible through online colleges with flexible GPA requirements, making them an excellent option for students with varied academic backgrounds. Graduates can work in healthcare, child welfare, or policy advocacy.

List of the Best Online Colleges that Accept Low GPA for 2025

Earning a college degree is still one of the most effective ways to open doors to new opportunities, even for students whose past grades might not fully reflect their potential. That’s why many schools are now recognized among the best institutions for non-traditional students flexible learning, offering supportive admissions policies, generous transfer credit options, and online formats that adapt to busy lives.

1. Southern New Hampshire University

Southern New Hampshire University provides a highly flexible and supportive online environment with over 200 career-focused programs. The university is dedicated to expanding access to education, offering a generous transfer credit policy to help students complete their degrees efficiently and affordably.

• Program Length: Approximately 4 years
• Concentrations: Business Administration; Criminal Justice; Psychology; Computer Science; and more
• Required Credits to Graduate: 120
• Cost per Credit: $342
• Accreditation: New England Commission of Higher Education (NECHE)

2. American Public University

American Public University is structured to serve working adults, particularly those in the military and public service communities. The university emphasizes career-relevant online programs and offers a robust transfer credit system that recognizes professional training and prior learning to accelerate degree completion.

• Program Length: Approximately 4 years
• Concentrations: Homeland Security; Business Administration; Criminal Justice; Cybersecurity; and more
• Required Credits to Graduate: 120
• Cost per Credit: $350
• Accreditation: Higher Learning Commission (HLC)

3. Western Governors University

Western Governors University utilizes an innovative competency-based model that allows students to progress by demonstrating mastery of course material. This nonprofit online university’s flat-rate tuition and flexible pacing are designed to help motivated students accelerate their degrees and control their educational costs.

• Program Length: Self-paced, typically 2-4 years
• Concentrations: Business Management; Information Technology; Nursing; Elementary Education; and more
• Required Credits to Graduate: Approximately 120 competency units
• Tuition: Approximately $4,160 per 6-month term
• Accreditation: Northwest Commission on Colleges and Universities (NWCCU)

4. Walden University

Walden University is committed to empowering adult learners through flexible online programs designed to foster positive community and workplace change. The university offers a generous transfer credit policy and two learning formats—course-based and self-paced—to accommodate different learning styles and schedules.

• Program Length: Approximately 4 years
• Required Quarter Credits to Graduate: 181
• Concentrations: Psychology; Business Administration; Social Work; Public Health; and more
• Cost per Quarter Credit: $350
• Accreditation: Higher Learning Commission (HLC)

5. State University of New York (SUNY), Morrisville

SUNY Morrisville emphasizes a hands-on, applied educational philosophy, translating its practical approach into its online offerings. As part of the respected SUNY system, it provides an affordable and credible pathway for students, with clear transfer guidelines for those with prior college experience.

• Program Length: Approximately 4 years
• Concentrations: Applied Psychology; Business Administration; Information Technology; Nursing; and more
• Required Credits to Graduate: 120
• Cost per Credit: $235.67 (in-state); $583 (out-of-state)
• Accreditation: Middle States Commission on Higher Education (MSCHE)

6. National Louis University

National Louis University has a long history of providing access to career-focused education, a mission it extends through its online programs. The university is dedicated to affordability and student success, offering a supportive environment for students to complete degrees in high-demand fields.

• Program Length: Approximately 4 years
• Required Quarter Hours to Graduate: 180
• Concentrations: Business Administration; Health Care Leadership; Psychology; Criminal Justice; and more
• Cost per Credit: $406.50
• Accreditation: Higher Learning Commission (HLC)

7. Liberty University

Liberty University integrates a Christian worldview into its extensive online programs, offering a values-based education for students worldwide. As a nonprofit institution, it provides a flexible learning format and accepts a high number of transfer credits to help students achieve their academic goals.

• Program Length: 1-2 years
• Required Credits to Graduate: Approximately 40
• Cost per Credit: $580
• Accreditation: Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges (SACSCOC)

8. University of Maryland Global Campus

University of Maryland Global Campus was specifically founded to serve working adults and servicemembers with accessible, respected state university education. The university has eliminated costly textbooks in nearly every course and provides a flexible online format with no set login times to fit any schedule.

• Program Length: 1-2 years
• Required Credits to Graduate: Approximately 40
• Cost per Credit: $544 (in-state); $659 (out-of-state)
• Accreditation: Middle States Commission on Higher Education (MSCHE)

How long does it take to complete a degree program at an online college that accepts low GPA?

The admissions policy has no impact on how long it takes to earn your degree. A bachelor's degree program is typically designed to be completed in four years of full-time study, regardless of the institution.

The real advantage of an online format is how you can adjust that timeline. If you have credits from a community college or previous university experience, you can often transfer them to graduate sooner.

Conversely, if you need to work while you study, you can take fewer classes per semester and complete your degree at a part-time pace that fits your life. Many students speed up their progress through options like 6 week college courses online, which allow them to meet graduation requirements faster than traditional semester formats.

How does an online program at a low GPA-accepting college compare to an on-campus program?

When the school is properly accredited, the academic quality of an online program is the same as its on-campus counterpart. The diploma you earn holds the same value. The primary differences are in the delivery of the material and your day-to-day experience as a student.

Academic Quality and Accreditation 

The most important factor is accreditation. An accredited online degree meets the same rigorous standards for faculty, curriculum, and academic support as a traditional on-campus program. Courses are often taught by the same professors, using a curriculum that has simply been adapted for a digital format.

The student experience, however, looks different. Attending online colleges that accept low GPA gives you flexibility to balance education with work and family responsibilities, something a fixed on-campus schedule cannot match. While you trade face-to-face study groups and campus events for remote learning, you gain the ability to learn from anywhere and set a schedule that works for you.

For some, online programs also provide exposure to modern tools like what is teletherapy, which highlights how digital platforms are increasingly shaping professional practice across different fields.

What is the average cost of attending an online college that accepts low GPA?

The cost of an online degree can vary widely, but it is often more affordable than attending an on-campus program. Tuition rates are the main factor, and these can differ between public, private, and for-profit institutions.

A good benchmark to consider is the average cost of attendance for an in-state student at a public four-year university, which is about $27,146 per year. This figure includes tuition, fees, housing, and other expenses. Online students can significantly reduce this total because they don't have costs for on-campus housing or meal plans. By studying from home, you are primarily paying for tuition and digital course materials, which can lead to substantial savings over the life of your degree program.

Affordability is often a deciding factor for many students. Schools that focus on affordable open admission online colleges make higher education more accessible, particularly for those balancing financial constraints with the drive to earn a degree.

What are the financial aid options for students enrolling in an online college that accepts low GPA?

You have access to the same financial aid options as students at any other accredited institution. Your eligibility for most aid is determined by your financial need, not your high school GPA. The key to unlocking these options is filling out the Free Application for Federal Student Aid, known as the FAFSA.

Once you submit the FAFSA, your information is used to determine your eligibility for several types of aid:

• Federal Grants: This is money for college that you do not have to pay back, like the Pell Grant for undergraduate students with exceptional financial need.
• Federal Student Loans: These are borrowed funds that you must repay with interest, but they often have more flexible repayment options than private loans.
• Scholarships: Many schools and private organizations offer scholarships based on various criteria, and some are specifically for non-traditional students or those who have overcome challenges.

Making smart choices about aid is more important than ever. With total student loan debt in the U.S. reaching over $1.77 trillion in 2024, your goal should be to maximize grants and scholarships first to borrow as little as possible.

What are the prerequisites for enrolling in an online college that accepts low GPA?

The main prerequisite is a high school diploma or a GED. Colleges with flexible admissions policies are more interested in your readiness to succeed now than in your past academic record. While specific requirements vary by school, the application process is generally very straightforward, and exploring options like Scholarships for Online Students can also help make your education more affordable.

You will typically need to complete the following steps:

• Fill out an online application. This form will ask for your basic personal information, educational history, and the program you're interested in.
• Submit your official transcripts. You'll need to request transcripts from your high school and any colleges you've previously attended.
• Write a personal statement, if required. Some schools may ask for a short essay about your goals, which is a great chance to explain your story and show your motivation.

The focus is on giving you an opportunity to demonstrate your potential for college-level work.

What courses are typically offered at online colleges that accept low GPA?

You will take the same types of courses offered at any accredited on-campus university. A bachelor’s degree curriculum is designed to provide both a broad education and in-depth knowledge in your chosen field, and that standard doesn’t change based on a school’s admission policy.

About half of your program will consist of general education courses, which build core skills in critical thinking, communication, and analysis. These typically include English composition, college-level math, history, social sciences, and natural sciences. The other half of your coursework will be focused on your major—for example, business students study accounting and marketing, while those in a fast-track online sustainability bachelor’s degree program might take classes in environmental policy and science.

Looking at national trends can help guide your choice of major. Business remains the most popular field of study, accounting for 18.6% of all bachelor’s degrees awarded, followed by healthcare-related fields at 13.1%.

What degree programs are typically available at online colleges that accept low GPA?

You can find a wide variety of degree programs that are focused on preparing you for in-demand careers. The online colleges that accept low GPA that we've identified understand that students are looking for practical paths to professional roles, so their offerings reflect the needs of the current job market.

The single most important factor in your decision is accreditation. Beyond that, the "best" school is the one that fits your specific career goals and provides the support you need to succeed. As you research online colleges that accept low GPA, focus on these key areas.:

• Business Administration: This is a versatile degree that opens doors to roles in management, marketing, and finance. Some students even choose a specialized path, such as a fast-track online entrepreneurship bachelor's degree.
• Healthcare Administration and Health Sciences: These programs prepare you for non-clinical leadership roles in one of the fastest-growing sectors of the economy.
• Information Technology and Cybersecurity: With the growing reliance on technology, degrees in these fields lead to stable, well-paying jobs in network administration, data security, and software development.
• Psychology and Human Services: These degrees are an excellent foundation for careers in counseling, social work, and community support organizations.
• Criminal Justice: This path prepares you for roles in law enforcement, corrections, and legal support services.

How to Choose the Best Online College that Accepts Low GPA

The single most important factor in your decision is accreditation. Beyond that, the "best" school is the one that fits your specific career goals and provides the support you need to succeed. As you research online colleges that accept low GPA, focus on these key areas.:

• Verify the school's accreditation. Look for accreditation from an agency recognized by the U.S. Department of Education or the Council for Higher Education Accreditation (CHEA). This is non-negotiable and guarantees the quality and value of your degree.
• Investigate their student support services. Do they offer online tutoring, career counseling, and dedicated academic advisors? Strong support systems are a sign of a school that is invested in the success of its students.
• Ensure the program aligns with your career goals. Look closely at the curriculum and faculty expertise. If you have a specific career in mind, such as one of the fastest online real estate degree programs, make sure the coursework will get you there.

What career paths are available for graduates of online colleges?

An accredited degree from one of the online colleges that accept low GPA qualifies you for the same professional career paths as a degree from any other university. Your credential is the key that opens doors to roles in business, technology, healthcare, and many other fields.

Careers in Business and Management

With a business degree, you can pursue roles in areas like project management, marketing, human resources, or logistics. Many graduates work their way into leadership positions within established companies, while others start their own ventures.

Careers in Technology

The tech sector is a major destination for graduates. An information technology or computer science degree can lead to a career as a network administrator, a software developer, or a data analyst. As technology evolves, roles in high-demand areas like the shortest online cybersecurity bachelor's degree programs are becoming increasingly critical.

Careers in Healthcare and Human Services

For those drawn to helping others, degrees in healthcare administration, psychology, or social work provide a path to impactful careers. You could manage operations in a hospital, provide counseling services, or work for a community-based nonprofit organization.

As the data shows, reaching the bachelor's degree level is a significant step, with median earnings far surpassing those with an associate's degree or high school diploma.

What is the job market outlook for online college graduates?

The job market for graduates with a bachelor's degree is strong and projected to grow significantly. The value of your degree is determined by its accreditation and the skills you've gained, not the school's admission statistics. Employers are looking for qualified candidates to fill professional roles.

Projections show that nearly 2.4 million new jobs will be created for bachelor's degree holders by 2034, making it the educational level with the highest projected job growth. This data confirms that investing in your degree is a strategic move that aligns with the long-term needs of the economy.

For those who want to specialize further to increase their competitiveness, pursuing an advanced degree can be a logical next step; for example, you can explore the fastest online master's in special education programs to enter a high-need field.

Here’s What Graduates Have to Say about Their Online Colleges that Accept Low GPA

Other Things You Should Know About Online Colleges that Accept Low GPA

How can you verify if an online college is accredited?

You can verify a college's accreditation status through official sources. The best way is to search for the school in the databases maintained by the U.S. Department of Education or the Council for Higher Education Accreditation (CHEA). If a school is listed on these sites, its accreditation is legitimate.

Will my diploma say that my degree was earned online?

No, your diploma will not typically state that your degree was earned online. Accredited universities issue the same official diploma to both their online and on-campus graduates. The document signifies that you have met all the academic requirements for the degree, regardless of the format.

Can I transfer credits from an online college to another university later?

Yes, you can usually transfer credits from an accredited online college to another university. The key is regional accreditation, which is the most widely recognized and accepted standard. Credits from a regionally accredited online program are generally transferable to other regionally accredited schools, both online and on-campus.

What kind of academic support is available for online students?

Reputable online colleges offer robust academic support to help students succeed. These services often include access to online tutoring, virtual writing centers, dedicated academic advisors who help with course selection, and digital libraries. Professors also provide support through virtual office hours and email.