Minimum CGPA Required for MS in the USA in 2025

In MS applications, both CGPA and GPA are considered crucial for evaluating academic performance. CGPA reflects overall academic performance, GPA focuses on more recent grades, also sometimes within a specific metre. 

For MS programs in the USA in 2025, a minimum CGPA of 3.0 on a 4.0 scale is generally expected. 

Join us as we explore the CGPA requirements for masters in the USA for international students, how they vary across universities, and the alternatives or tips to strengthen your application in case you fall below the standard threshold scores.

CGPA Required for MS in Top US Universities in 2025 

The CGPA requirements for MS in the USA’s top universities is generally above 3.5 out of 4.0 points. The list of top 10 universities in the USA and the required CGPA for MS in these US universities is as follows:

Worry not if you lag the minimum CGPA required for masters in USA as there are a few alternative methods that could be adopted to strengthen your profile, to help you gain admission to these top universities. Scroll down to learn more about them.

Also Read:  Top Universities in USA for MS in 2025 

Universities Accepting Low CGPA for MS in US 

Now that you have explored the top universities in the USA that would need a high minimum CGPA for MS in the USA and before we move on to unveiling the tips to strengthen your student profile, let us now learn about the best universities in the USA for MS that also accept a low CGPA score for admission eligibility.

Differences Between CGPA and Indian CGPA Calculation

The USA and Indian education system uses different methods to calculate CGPA (Cumulative Grade Point Average). 

• In the USA, GPA is calculated on a 4.0 scale, where grades like A, B, C, etc.. are given to grade points, for e.g. A=4.0, B=3.0. Each course and grade point is multiplied by its credit hours to get total grade points, and the CGPA is the grade divided by total credit hours. 
• On the other hand, the Indian system typically uses a 10.0 scale, where grades are equally weighted without considering credit scores.

How to Calculate CGPA from Your Grade Point?

Here’s how you can calculate CGPA from your Grade Point:

• Step 1: Multiply the Grades by its Credit Hours 

For each course, multiply the grade points you have got by the number of credit hours. This will give you the grade point for that course

• Step 2: Sum All Grade Points 

Add all the total grade points from all your courses 

• Step 3: Sum all the Credit Hours

Add up the total credit hours for all the courses taken. 

• Step 4: Divide Total Grade Points by Total Credit Hours 

Divide the total grade points by the sum of your credit hours. The result is your Cumulative Grade Point Average (CGPA). 

Example Calculation 

Calculate grade points for each course:

• Course A: 3.6 × 3 = 10.8
• Course B: 3.0 × 4 = 12.0
• Course C: 4.0 × 2 = 8.0

• Total grade points = 10.8 + 12.0 + 8.0 = 30.8
• Total credit hours = 3 + 4 + 2 = 9
• CGPA = Total Grade Points ÷ Total Credit Hours = 30.8 ÷ 9 = 3.42

Explore the guide to learn how to convert CGPA to GPA for study abroad in the USA.

Eligibility Requirements for MS in US Universities in 2025 

Academic Qualification: 

• Bachelor’s degree (3 or 4 years) from a recognized university. 
• Minimum GPA of 3.0 on a 4.0 scale.

English Proficiency Level Assessment: 

• IELTS: Minimum 6.5 overall (some top universities require 7.0 or above).
• TOEFL: Minimum 88–100 (top programs may require 100+).
• PTE: Minimum 60 (some universities accept 50–60, but 60+ is typical for MS).
• Duolingo: 100–115 (if accepted) 

Standardised Test Scores 

• Competitive programs look for 315+. But the minimum is typically around 290–300. 
• GMAT: 600–740

Documents Required for MS in the USA 

Up next after the eligibility criteria for admission to MS in the USA, the list of documents you would need to gather to apply for MS in the USA admission process include:

• Academic Transcripts
• English language test scores
• GRE or GMAT test score
• 2-3 Letters or Recommendations
• Statement of Purpose
• Work Experience Certificates
• Updated Resume
• Other documents (as per university)

5 Tips to Improve Your Chance for Admissions with a Low CGPA 

One of the recent studies stated that the number of applications received by 70% of MS programs in the USA has witnessed a drastic increase over the last 5 years, signifying the increasing demand. But do you expect all the students to have a strong CGPA score to be eligible?

That’s certainly not the case. We have drafted a few of the proven tips to increase your chances of admission to US universities irrespective of a low CGPA score. These include:

1. Try achieving a high score on GRE, (preferably 90% or higher), particularly in the quantitative section aim for the maximum, if you specifically aiming for STEM courses in the US.
2. Try gaining a minimum of 2-3 years of work experience in your field of interest to demonstrate practical skills and knowledge.
3. Strong Letter of Recommendation (LOR) from professors or employers, highlighting your strengths, achievements, and potential. Universities like Standford and Harvard, have a great emphasis on recommendation letters.
4. Draft a well-compelling Statement of Purpose, perfectly highlighting your motivation, experiences, and how the course aligns to your future goals. Universities like UC Berkley, have a strong emphasis on compelling SOPs for admission.
5. Try taking additional courses or certifications from platforms like Coursera, MIT OpenCourseWare, university extension programs, etc, to showcase your zeal for learning. 

Also Read: The Benefits and Requirements for an M1 visa for students

Secure Admission to Top Universities in the USA with GetGIS Assistance

All international students aspiring to study MS in USA are suggested to ensure that they have a minimum CGPA score required for MS in the USA admissions i.e., 3.0 or higher to ensure that their admission chances are not hampered. Though there are alternative approaches for securing your admission in USA best universities, having score the best in all prospects could significantly boost your chances of admission among the high competition.

Are you looking for expert assistance for your study abroad plans to the USA? Get in touch with GetGIS. Our dedicated study abroad assistance team is here to help you with all your admission and visa requirements to the USA. From eligibility verification, documentation handling, visa process, USA student visa interview questions and preparation, and more we are here to ensure no hiccups in achieving your dream to study in the USA.