Answer: GPA requirements vary by graduate school, and minimum GPA thresholds can range from about 2.5 at some programs to higher standards in other cases—especially for advanced standing, which may include higher GPA expectations (sometimes including a higher social work/major GPA requirement).

For traditional MSW programs, 3.0 is a common benchmark, but GPA minimums vary by school, and some programs evaluate GPA differently (for example, emphasizing GPA in the last 60 undergraduate credits). However, some schools may still consider applicants with a GPA below 3.0 through holistic review or an exception process. Because many MSW programs now state that the GRE is not required (though it may be optional at some schools), applicants should confirm each program’s current testing policy. See the GPA table below for more information.

[Please note: The majority of universities have a selective admissions process for MSW programs that are online, meaning that even if a student meets the minimum requirements for the program, they are not guaranteed admission.]

The Council on Social Work Education (CSWE) is the main accrediting body for BSW and MSW programs. For students who have already earned a Bachelor of Social Work from a Council on Social Work Education (CSWE) accredited undergraduate program, the majority of GPA table below for more information). Advanced standing programs often have stricter admission criteria than traditional programs.

BSW students who do not meet the minimum GPA requirements for an advanced standing program, may still be eligible to earn a MSW degree through a traditional program.

For students who are not sure about their qualifications, we recommend contacting universities before applying to determine your chances for admission.

Click on the school name for more information about their programs, admission requirements and eligibility restrictions.

¹All online MSW programs require field education at a local health services agency. Programs that are 100% online do not require students to visit the campus during the program.

Information in the table last updated: March 2020

²All online MSW programs require field education at a local health services agency. Programs that are 100% online do not require students to visit the campus during the program.

Program options include full-time (FT) and part-time (PT) programs. Most full-time online MSW programs designed for traditional students take two years to complete, whereas part-time programs typically take two and a half to four years to complete, depending on the program.

Information on the page last updated: January 2026