Pennsylvania State University
201 Old Main, University Park, PA 16802, USA
Pennsylvania State University (Penn State) is a major public, land-grant research university with a system of campuses across Pennsylvania and a flagship campus at University Park. It is known for broad academic excellence, strong research outputs, and extensive career preparation, with more than 275 undergraduate majors, 100 graduate programs, and global partnerships. The campus environment blends large-university resources (research labs, professional schools, student clubs) with access to a diverse student community from around the world. Penn State’s network and alumni presence create opportunities in business, engineering, health sciences, sciences, and the arts. It also supports student mobility with world campus (online) and Commonwealth campus options.
- Known for: Extensive research+teaching across disciplines; strong engineering, business, sciences, and health programs; one of the highest research expenditures in U.S. public universities.
- Ranked top ~30 U.S. research university and within the top ~6% globally in QS rankings.
- Offers 275+ undergraduate majors and numerous graduate and professional degrees.
- Diverse campuses: University Park (main), Commonwealth campuses, and World Campus (online).
- Large international community: Students from 150+ countries; ~8,800+ international students.
- Alumni network: ~800,000+ alumni globally.
- Rich student life with 1,200+ student organizations and strong athletics culture (Big Ten sports, Nittany Lions).
Undergraduate:
- Regular decision deadlines: Typically January–March for Fall entry (varies by campus).
- Early action/priority: Available at some campuses with earlier deadlines (usually November).
- Scholarship consideration: Often tied to or before main application deadlines.
- Commit/Deposit deadline: Schools often set May 1 as a general response deadline for Fall admits.
Graduate:
- Deadlines vary widely by program and semester; many programs have closed dates per term and some admit on rolling bases.
- International applicants should apply several months early to allow for admissions and visa processing.
Undergraduate (international):
- Completion of secondary education or equivalent; strong academic record evaluated holistically.
- English proficiency (TOEFL/IELTS or equivalent) required for non-native English speakers.
- SAT/ACT are test-optional (Penn State accepts them but does not require for all applicants).
- Official transcripts must be submitted; documentation for visa (financial proof) is required.
Graduate (international):
- Completed bachelor’s degree or equivalent from recognized institution.
- English proficiency test scores required (variations by program).
- GRE/GMAT requirements vary by program; many do not require them but check specific department details.
- Additional documents like CV, letters of recommendation, and visa documentation are typically required.
| Program Level | Annual Cost of Attendance |
|---|---|
| Undergraduate | $41,790.00 - $41,790.00 |
| Graduate | $30,000.00 - $50,000.00 |
Undergraduate (international):
- Completion of secondary education or equivalent; strong academic record evaluated holistically.
- English proficiency (TOEFL/IELTS or equivalent) required for non-native English speakers.
- SAT/ACT are test-optional (Penn State accepts them but does not require for all applicants).
- Official transcripts must be submitted; documentation for visa (financial proof) is required.
Graduate (international):
- Completed bachelor’s degree or equivalent from recognized institution.
- English proficiency test scores required (variations by program).
- GRE/GMAT requirements vary by program; many do not require them but check specific department details.
- Additional documents like CV, letters of recommendation, and visa documentation are typically required.
| Level | Web Page | Download |
|---|---|---|
| Undergraduate | View Programs | — |
| Graduate | View Programs | — |