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List of USA Universities Accepting Backlogs

Updated on 09 November, 2023

Shivangi Mishra

Shivangi Mishra

Sr. Content Editor

Did you know that almost 2 lakh Indian students studied in the United States for higher education in 2022? This is an estimate according to a report released by the Open Doors Report published by the Institute of International Education (IIE). In 2022, there has been an increase of more than 19% in the number of Indian students studying in the US.

If you are worried that your academic backlog might prevent you from getting into a reputable university in the USA, do not fret! There are many USA Universities Accepting Backlogs that provide you with an opportunity to pursue higher education and achieve your dreams.

In this post, we will explore some of these US universities and provide factors affecting the acceptance of backlogs in the USA. So, sit tight as we embark on this enlightening journey together. 

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Factors Affecting Acceptance of Backlogs in the USA

There are several factors affecting the acceptance of backlogs in USA, such as:

GPA: 

GPA is one of the most important factors that universities consider when reviewing your academic performance. You will have a better chance of being accepted into a university with a high GPA despite backlogs. 

Time Taken To Clear Backlogs: 

The likelihood of your application being rejected increases if you have repeated backlogs or have made multiple attempts to clear them. Having a single backlog, though, won’t result in rejection.

Backlog Status:

Internationally ranked, respected universities in the US refuse to accept students with active backlogs. As such, you must submit a backlog certificate indicating that your backlog is inactive.

How Many Backlogs Are Allowed in US Universities?

Most universities in the US will usually accept a maximum of five backlogs. There are, however, some universities that accept admissions for students with more than five backlogs but only at their discretion.

Furthermore, the maximum number of backlogs that most US universities have accepted is 15. This is because each university has its specific requirements for admission, and backlogs can indicate that an applicant may not be prepared for the rigors of university-level coursework.

List of US Universities Accepting Backlogs

After considering the factors mentioned above, we have created a list of top US universities based on the number of backlogs they accept. 

Given below is a list of some well-known institutions in US that can allow you to pursue the course of your interest:

University US News Rankings 2023 Backlogs Accepted Acceptance Rate
Yeshiva University, New York City #67 in Best National Universities Upto 5 backlogs 62%
University of West Florida, Florida #10 in Top Public Schools Upto 10 backlogs 53%
Johnson & Wales University, Rhode Island #46 in Best Value Schools Upto 10 backlogs 88%
Golden Gate University, San Francisco

#251

 

in

Best Public Affairs Programs

Upto 10 backlogs 62%

Source: US News

Disclaimer! All the information related to the backlog acceptance is subject to change depending on various conditions and is at the sole discretion of the university.

How are the Backlogs Calculated?

Students are considered to have completed their backlogs when they receive a backlog certificate from their university. Backlogs certificates indicate that students have completed all program requirements and are eligible to immigrate abroad. Backlogs are counted using the following methods:

Number of Subjects

In this case, the certificate of the backlog is issued according to the number of subjects and not according to the number of attempts that were made in order to clear the subject. A number of universities in the USA, the UK, and Canada have adopted this method of counting.

 For Example, Number of Failed Subjects = Number of Backlogs.

 Suppose a student failed two subjects and took three attempts per subject to passing. Then, the total backlog will be two and not six.

Number of Attempts

In this case, the backlog certificate is issued based on the number of attempts or reattempts that have been made to pass the test. Several universities in Australia, Germany, and Canada use this method of counting.

 Suppose a student failed in one subject and then took three attempts to pass the exam. Then, the total backlog will be counted as four and not one.

Note: With active backlogs, you can still apply for admission to your preferred foreign university. In the case that your application is accepted, the university will provide you with a conditional offer letter with the premise that you will clear off your backlogs before you begin your studies at the university.

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Conclusion

As you can see, there are quite a few universities in the United States that accept students with backlogs. Though finding a university that will work with your academic situation may seem difficult, don’t give up hope. With some research and effort, you should be able to find a school that fits your needs perfectly. Best of luck in finding the perfect school for you!

Leading Universities in the USA
Loma Linda University Florida Polytechnic University Norwich University
Boise State University Lubbock Christian University Temple University USA
University of Nebraska Kearney Jacksonville State University St. Edward’s University

FAQs

Is a backlog certificate required by US universities at the time of admission?

When you complete your studies at a US university, you’ll usually receive a certificate stating how many active and inactive backlogs you have. No backlog certificate will be issued if there is no backlog. There are, however, some US universities that require zero backlog certificates.

 

 


 

How likely are you to be accepted by a university in the USA that accepts backlogs?

The US universities that accept backlogs will admit you if you have a high GPA, a backlog in an unrelated subject of the course you are applying to, an excellent academic record overall, and excellent work experience, internships, and letters of recommendation.

List some universities in USA that may accept 10 to 15 backlogs.

University of West Florida, Golden Gate University, and Johnson & Wales University are some of the US universities that accept 10-15 backlogs.

Did you find this article helpful?

Shivangi Mishra

Sr. Content Editor

She is an experienced writer and journalist who has extensively covered the education sector in India and Abroad. Now helping Indian aspirants realise their foreign education dream by providing them with relevant content and information through upGrad Abroad. Amateur traveller, loves to read Architectural Digest!

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