* High school rigor: The difficulty of your courses (AP, IB, Honors, etc.) matters more than just the GPA itself.
* Standardized test scores: While Butler is test-optional, submitting strong scores can still improve your application.
* Extracurricular activities: Demonstrated leadership, commitment, and passion in extracurriculars are important.
* Essays: Your essays provide a chance to showcase your personality, experiences, and goals.
* Letters of recommendation: Strong recommendations from teachers and counselors who know you well.
In short, while a high GPA is beneficial and likely necessary for a competitive application, there's no magic number. Focusing on a strong overall application is key. Check Butler's admissions website for their average GPA of admitted students (which is usually a range, not a specific number), and contact the admissions office directly if you have specific concerns about your academic record.