Norman, Oklahoma – May 13, 2025 – The Oklahoma Sooner football program has demonstrated that their dominance extends beyond the gridiron, achieving unprecedented academic success. The team has not only set a new program record for cumulative Grade Point Average (GPA) but has also emerged as the leader in Academic Progress Rate (APR) among all Southeastern Conference (SEC) football programs. This remarkable accomplishment underscores the program’s commitment to the holistic development of its student-athletes, emphasizing both athletic and scholastic achievements.
The Sooners capped off the Fall 2024 semester with a program-best 3.06 cumulative GPA. This figure represents the highest academic performance in the history of the Oklahoma football program, surpassing the previous high mark and highlighting the dedication of the players and the academic support staff. This achievement is even more significant considering the rigorous demands placed on student-athletes balancing high-level competition with their academic pursuits.
This record-setting GPA is part of a broader trend of academic excellence within the entire University of Oklahoma athletic department. For the 26th consecutive semester, Sooner student-athletes across all sports have maintained a cumulative GPA above 3.0. In the Fall 2024 semester alone, the collective GPA for all student-athletes reached a school-record 3.29. Notably, the football team’s 3.06 GPA contributed significantly to this overall academic success.
Furthermore, the Oklahoma football program has distinguished itself within its new conference, the SEC, by achieving the highest Academic Progress Rate (APR) among its football programs. The latest APR data for the 2023-2024 academic year places the Sooners at the top of the SEC, demonstrating their commitment to ensuring players remain on track to graduation and maintain good academic standing.
The APR is a metric used by the NCAA to track the academic performance of student-athletes and teams. It considers eligibility, retention, and graduation rates to provide a comprehensive assessment of a team’s academic culture. Leading the SEC in this critical metric signifies that the Oklahoma football program excels in supporting its players’ academic journeys.
Head Coach Brent Venables has consistently emphasized the importance of academic achievement within the program. While the team’s on-field performance in their inaugural SEC season saw them finish with a 6-7 record (2-6 in conference play), the academic accomplishments highlight the program’s commitment to developing well-rounded individuals. Venables has even implemented incentives, such as a reported $25,000 bonus for the team achieving a 3.0 GPA, underscoring the value placed on classroom success.
“Our student-athletes continue to impress with their dedication in the classroom,” said a university spokesperson. “The football program’s record GPA and leading the SEC in APR are testaments to their hard work, the support provided by our academic staff, and Coach Venables’ commitment to their overall development.”
The academic success of the Oklahoma football team provides a strong foundation for the program as it continues to build and compete in the SEC. It reflects a culture where academic excellence is not sacrificed for athletic ambition but is seen as an integral part of the student-athlete experience. This achievement is likely to resonate positively with recruits and their families, showcasing the program’s commitment to their long-term success both on and off the field.
While some fans expressed their desire for more on-field victories alongside the academic achievements, the significance of this academic milestone cannot be understated. It demonstrates that the Oklahoma football program is fostering an environment where student-athletes can excel in all aspects of their college experience, preparing them for success long after their playing days are over.
This news serves as a point of pride for the University of Oklahoma and its fanbase, highlighting the program’s commitment to its educational mission alongside its athletic goals. As the Sooners move forward in the competitive landscape of the SEC, their academic prowess provides a strong indicator of the program’s overall health and commitment to the success of its student-athletes.
