Pennsylvania State University

University Park, PA US News #55

35.0%

Acceptance Rate

1360

Avg SAT

Avg ACT

3.75

Avg GPA

Pennsylvania State University, founded in 1855 as the Farmers' High School of Pennsylvania, has grown to become one of America's largest and most influential public research universities. Penn State combines massive scale with strong academics, legendary athletics, and an alumni network that spans the globe. The university ranks among the top 25 public universities nationally. Penn State's culture revolves around the "We Are" spirit. The blue and white colors, Nittany Lion mascot, and passionate football tradition create intense school loyalty. THON, the annual dance marathon raising millions for pediatric cancer, exemplifies Penn State's community spirit. Happy Valley earns its name from genuine school pride. Notable alumni span fields from athletics to business: football legend Joe Paterno, fashion designer Sarah Blakely (Spanx founder), and countless corporate leaders. Penn State's alumni network of 700,000+ is among the world's largest and most engaged. Penn State University Park enrolls approximately 40,000 undergraduates and 6,000 graduate students on a 5,000-acre campus in State College, Pennsylvania. The sprawling campus in the center of Pennsylvania creates a self-contained college town experience. The university's reach extends through 20+ commonwealth campuses across Pennsylvania.

Admissions

Acceptance Rate: 35.0%
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Avg GPA: 3.75

Campus & Students

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Outcomes & Cost

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Student Life & Environment

Campus life at Penn State defines the American college experience, with traditions, athletics, and over 1,000 student organizations creating a spirited community where lifelong friendships form and personal growth flourishes alongside academic achievement. Football Saturdays at Beaver Stadium transform Happy Valley into a sea of blue and white, with over 100,000 fans creating the legendary whiteout atmosphere that opponents dread and players remember forever. THON, the largest student-run philanthropy in the world, raises millions annually for pediatric cancer research while uniting the campus community in a 46-hour dance marathon that embodies Penn State's spirit of service. Greek life involves thousands of students across dozens of fraternities and sororities supporting philanthropy, leadership development, and social connection. The HUB-Robeson Center serves as the student union, featuring dining options, study spaces, a hotel, and gathering areas where the diverse student body naturally congregates. Residence halls house freshmen and upperclassmen in communities fostering connection through programming and shared experiences. Club and intramural sports provide competitive outlets for non-varsity athletes, with facilities including golf courses, ice rinks, and extensive fitness centers. Cultural organizations celebrate the diversity of the student body, with events, performances, and educational programming occurring throughout the year. The Bryce Jordan Center hosts concerts and events bringing entertainment to campus, while downtown State College offers restaurants, bars, and shops within walking distance.

Location & Surroundings

State College occupies the geographic center of Pennsylvania within the beautiful Nittany Valley, creating a quintessential college town where Penn State dominates the cultural and economic landscape while natural beauty provides endless recreation opportunities in every season. Happy Valley's isolation from major metropolitan areas contributes to the intense campus community and school spirit, as State College essentially exists because of and for the university. Downtown State College along College Avenue provides independent shops, restaurants, bars, and coffee houses creating the walkable commercial district students explore throughout their four years. The surrounding ridge-and-valley terrain offers outstanding outdoor recreation including hiking on Mount Nittany, skiing at nearby Tussey Mountain, fishing in spring creeks, and cycling through scenic countryside. Autumn brings spectacular fall foliage that frames football weekends and homecoming celebrations in brilliant color. Pennsylvania's four-season climate provides distinct experiences from snowy winters perfect for skiing and sledding to warm summers when remaining students enjoy uncrowded campus facilities. Major cities including Pittsburgh and Philadelphia lie approximately three hours away by car, with Harrisburg closer for state government internships and employment. The university's size makes State College effectively a small city with amenities including excellent healthcare, entertainment, and retail options. Cost of living remains moderate compared to coastal metropolitan areas, making student housing and daily expenses manageable for most families.

Costs & Career Outcomes

Investing in a Penn State education yields exceptional returns through the university's world-class reputation, extensive alumni network, and comprehensive career services that position graduates for success across every industry and profession. Pennsylvania resident undergraduate tuition and fees total approximately $19,000 annually at University Park, with non-residents paying around $38,000, rates representing strong value given Penn State's research prestige and career outcomes. Beginning at Commonwealth Campuses with lower tuition before transitioning to University Park provides additional savings for students willing to start their journey closer to home. Room, board, and personal expenses add significantly to total costs, though varied housing options from residence halls to off-campus apartments provide flexibility for different budgets. Scholarship programs recognize academic achievement, leadership, and diverse talents, while need-based aid increasingly supports students from lower and middle-income families. Career services ranks among the nation's best, connecting students with internships and employment at companies actively recruiting Penn State talent. The alumni network spanning nearly 700,000 living graduates provides mentorship, networking, and hiring connections throughout careers. Corporate recruiters maintain persistent presence on campus, particularly for engineering, business, and technical majors. Graduate and professional school acceptance rates reflect the quality of undergraduate preparation, with Penn State alumni pursuing advanced degrees at top institutions worldwide. Starting salaries for recent graduates rank competitively with peer institutions, providing strong return on educational investment.